Relay switch

The new Citroën Relay promises higher levels of standard equipment, extended service intervals and more fuel efficient engines as well as lower emissions

Launched at the 2014 Commercial Vehicle Show, the new Citroën Relay is the latest in a line of panel vans to bear the name. First appearing in 1994, all versions have been products of the Sevel joint venture between Fiat and PSA Group (Peugeot and Citroën) and both the Relay and its Peugeot Boxer sister share certain body panels with the Italian company’s Ducato panel van. Production takes place at the Sevel Sud factory in Val di Sangro, Italy.

Practical touches
The fourth-generation Relay adopts more car‑like frontal styling. There’s no denying that the LED running lights in the headlamps add a smart, high-tech look.

With a load volume of 13m3 and payload of 1525kg in this 35 L3H2 version, there’s alot of space for carrying cargo. If that’s not large enough for your needs, the Relay comes in four lengths and three heights. There are also panel vans, chassis and chassis crew cabs, as well as specialist bodywork conversions to choose from. Practical touches include rear swing doors which are up to 2.03m high and open up to 270 degrees wide.

Load length can be up to 4.07m depending on version, while load volumes range from 8 to 17cm3.

A sill height of under 605mm means easy loading and optional pneumatic rear suspension lowers this by a further 70mm. Full-height large sliding side doors are up to 1.25m wide and there is 1.42m of space between the wheel arches. Overall interior width is 1.87m. Every Relay can swallow a minimum of three Euro pallets.

The cargo bay is lined with anti-drum panelling, has lighting and a 12V socket as well as lashing eyes. Occupants in the cab are protected by a full-height steel bulkhead.

Lower emissions
Citroën reports that all 2014 Relays enjoy lower emissions and 15 per cent better fuel consumption than the models they replace. The 35 L3H2 HDi 130 tested here emits 195g/km and is officially capable of 38.2mpg on the combined cycle. During our 287-mile test, we achieved a real-world average of 34.9.

The Relay shows trip computer information and driving data such as fuel consumption in the instrument panel. A gearshift indicator also informs when the best time is to change ratios. All Relays with a maximum weight of 3.5 tonnes emit less than 200g/km of CO2, the smallest being 175g/km.

The 35 L3H2’s 2.2-litre HDi diesel engine uses its 130bhp and 236lb ft (320Nm) of torque to good effect. It’s a swift accelerating van when it needs to be, slotting into traffic with little fuss. Once settled at a cruise, the Relay is quiet and all models have six-speed gearboxes.

Well-placed controls
The three-seat interior features well-placed controls and the five-inch colour touchscreen has a nice gloss finish to the surround.

Under-seat trays aid storage, along with an overhead cab-width shelf, door bins and two large gloveboxes. The largest is capable of holding A4-sized documents and is lockable.

‘Enterprise’ specification brings a high standard of equipment. The touchscreen shows driving data, as well as audio and system controls. It also shows the view from the (essential) rear camera where fitted. Mounted above the rear doors, the system not only shows the reversing path but also the outline of the door openings. The camera can also monitor loading, while rear sensors further aid parking. An optional £300 lane departure warning system is also available.

The inclusion of cruise control as part of the Enterprise pack can bring fuel-saving benefits and all Relays feature a Teletrac Smartnav satellite navigation system – ideal for fleets. A Trafficmaster telematics platform also allows new Relay operators to specify Fleet Director, a real-time fleet management system. Benefits include efficient vehicle routing and the security of vehicle tracking if stolen.

An advertising campaign states that the new Relay has been ‘Thumped. Pounded. Pummelled’ and that it’s tougher than before. Add in improved refinement as well as smarter looks and the new French contender can only build on the standards set by previous generations.

Citroën Relay 35 L3H2 HDi 130 Enterprise

GROSS PAYLOAD: 1525kg
LOAD VOLUME: 13m3
ENGINE: 2,198cc, four-cylinder diesel
CO2: 195g/km
MPG (combined): 38.2
VED: £225
PRICE (ex-VAT):£26,005
(£27,185 as tested)