The constant search for better fuel economy and reduced exhaust emissions has led to improved combustion design and increased engine efficiency in many van models. However, the best way to cut fuel use, is not to have the engine running at all, which has led to the adoption of Stop & Start systems on many LCVs.
The latest LCVs to offer Stop & Start technology are two models of Citroën’s Relay line-up. Based around the most popular Relay 30 L1H1 and Relay 35 L3H2 models, both can now be ordered with the firm’s e-HDI 130 engine, incorporating Stop & Start.
As the name suggests the engine offers 130hp, backed up by 320Nm of torque. This engine was already being offered in the 3.5-tonne van, but is a step up for the 3.0-tonne Relay 30, which usually only comes with a 110hp version of the 2.2-litre motor.
Citroën says the addition of the Stop & Start system helps the Relay 30 to achieve up to 39.2mpg, with CO2 ratings of as low as 189g/km. But making a comparison is difficult, as you can only compare with the 110hp engine at this weight. That said, the more powerful engine with the Stop & Start system is better than the 110hp engine, which delivers a combined figure of 37.7mpg and 199g/km.
Perhaps a bigger problem for this lighter model is cost. As the 3.5-tonne L3H2 model can already be ordered with the 130hp engine, the Stop & Start system adds just £200 to the purchase price, which is easy to justify for the fuel saving alone. On the smaller van the difference in list price is £1,000, as you are getting the more powerful engine as well as the fuel benefit.
Of course from the driver’s seat the additional power is very welcome, making the relatively compact L1H1 van a rapid performer. It’s not the quietest of engine installations, especially when cold. With the benefit of a full steel bulkhead the noise that does make it into the cab all comes from under the bonnet.
The big Citroën is a decent motorway hauler however, providing a comfortable ride and relatively secure handling. Six forward gears deliver low revs at dual carriageway cruising speeds, with instant acceleration when required.
The Relay has a spacious, well built cab with plenty of storage for the driver and passengers, including two gloveboxes, storage below the passenger bench and 22 litres of overhead stowage. Its well equipped too, with electric windows and heated electric mirrors part of the standard trim. ESP remains an option however, even with this more powerful engine.
Customers can also upgrade with the £900 Enterprise Pack, that includes the full steel bulkhead, air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity and rear parking sensors. The smallest Relay body has a healthy 8.0m3 of load volume, while wide opening rear doors and a huge sliding side door make it very easy to access the load area.
This 3.0-tonne van offers a payload of 1,140kg, though with Relay going right up to 4.05 tonnes, customers can specify a Citroën with up to 1,995kg of load carrying capacity. Likewise load volumes stretch from this 8.0m3 van right up to 17m3 on the L4H3 models.
What we think
At £200, Stop & Start would be an easy box to tick in the 3.5 tonne van. Taking that premium to £1,000 for the smaller Relay might be a harder decision to justify though.
Specification
MODEL Citroën Relay 30 L1H1 e-HDi 130
BASIC PRICE £19,860
ENGINE 4-cyl/2,198cc
FUEL INJECTION Common-rail
POWER 130hp @ 3,500rpm
TORQUE 320Nm @2,000rpm
Weights (kg)
GVW 3,000
KERB WEIGHT 1,560
PAYLOAD 1,140
MAX TRAILER WEIGHT 2,500
Dimensions (mm)
LOAD SPACE LENGTH 2,670
LOAD SPACE WIDTH 1,870
LOAD SPACE HEIGHT 1,662
LOAD HEIGHT (unladen) 506
LOAD VOLUME 8.0m3
Cost considerations
FUEL TANK CAPACITY 90 litres
COMBINED MPG & CO2 39.2mpg/189g/km
OIL CHANGE 2 yr/25,000 miles
WARRANTY 3 yr/100,000 miles