Citroen has announced the arrival in the UK of a new, compact multi-purpose vehicle, called the Nemo Multispace. Based on the Nemo van it offers fuel economy, load space and a sub-£10,000 price.

The Nemo Multispace fits into Citroen's range as a more compact alternative to the Berlingo Multispace. In its most basic form it also undercuts the cheapest C3 Picasso. Unlike the C3, the Nemo is offered in a single trim level, which is intended to be functional yet comfortable.

Features such as rubber mats instead of carpet, big bumpers and sliding rear doors emphasise the Nemo's utilitarian nature. That doesn't mean it's poorly equipped though, as electric windows, heated door mirrors and an MP3-compatible music system come as standard. The options list is short, but includes air conditioning, rear parking sensors and Bluetooth communication.

Large doors should make for easy access to the Nemo's cabin, while the boot has a low sill and provides 360-litres of luggage space with the rear seats in place. That can be increased to 890-litres with the back seat folded or 2,500-litres with the rear bench removed altogether. To provide rear-seat passengers with a better view ahead the back bench is mounted higher than the front seats.

Two 1.4-litre engines are offered: a petrol unit with 74bhp or a 69bhp diesel that is offered with both manual and SensoDrive automated manual transmission. The 1.4 HDi will return 62.8mpg and has a CO₂ rating of 119g/km with either transmission.

The Nemo Multispace is available to order now, with prices starting at £9,995 for the 1.4-litre petrol model. The diesel costs £10,995 while SensoDrive adds £800 to the price.

John Lambert - 23 Apr 2009