Model review
Van-based MPVs are nothing new, and if you want maximum practicality for a relatively modest budget, these models are hard to beat.
Citroen has been producing them for some time, based on its Berlingo and Expert vans, and the largest of the lot is the SpaceTourer, which is based on the Expert van.
It arrived in 2016 based on a new platform – known as EMP2 – that also underpins the firm’s larger cars, including the Grand C4 SpaceTourer MPV. It’s available in three lengths and Citroen aimed to give the model more presence than a typical model in this sector, thanks to stylish alloy wheels and LED lighting. It also benefits from a range of efficient engines and the same tech you could expect to find on the brand’s cars, including reversing cameras and an intuitive touchscreen system.
Latest model
Since the SpaceTourer debuted, Citroen’s adopted the name for its other MPV models, with the C4 Grand Picasso now known as the Grand C4 SpaceTourer, and sitting alongside the firm’s popular range of ‘Aircross’ SUV models.
The main SpaceTourer has only had light tweaks, though, including the introduction of a new Rip Curl special edition in 2018, along with a 118bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine mated to an automatic gearbox being introduced in October 2019.
More recently you’re also now able to get the SpaceTourer as an EV, with Citroen introducing a battery-powered version of its large MPV, which offers a range of up to 143 miles, and the same impressive levels of spaciousness as the standard car.
It’s worth noting that the SpaceTourer is mechanically-similar to a number of vans in this class – including the Peugeot Traveller, Toyota Proace Verso and Vauxhall Vivaro Life.
Value for money
For something that starts out in life as a van, the SpaceTourer might seem quite an expensive thing. Prices start from £36,790, which is a lot of money, though it’s worth considering that all versions come with a generous amount of standard kit and a huge amount of space. The electric model is exceptionally pricey, though, costing almost £50,000, though of course you’ll soon save when it comes to running costs.
However, if you want a bargain, you should look at nearly-new models, which are available with vast discounts at almost 50 per cent off list price. We spotted a six-month-old example with just 1,500 miles on the clock for £20,000, which gets you a huge amount of vehicle for your money.
Looks and image
Given its van-based roots, the SpaceTourer is never going to be winning any design awards, but considering its shape and body type, the Citroen designers have done a pretty good job. The front is the main highlight, as it features a bold front face, Citroen’s trademark chevron grille and cool vertical LED running lights. If you want the best styling, the top-spec Flair is the one to go for, as it gains alloy wheels where the other grades just get plastic wheel trims.
If you’re comparing the SpaceTourer to a conventional MPV, the van-like upright dash and hard plastics will likely disappoint, though it offers a seriously durable feel. All models also come with a useful touchscreen, but again, it’s the top-spec Feel that’s the one to go for if you want a bit more luxury – gaining leather upholstery and high-tech features like a head-up display.
Given the SpaceTourer uses underpinnings from car models, it’s better to drive than you might expect, and surprisingly easy to manoeuvre and park considering its size. Visibility is also excellent, while the ride is very comfortable and quite different to the van. It’s not the most refined choice, though, as plenty of road noise makes its way into the cabin, especially for passengers in the rear.
Space and practicality
While Citroen may have initially made the SpaceTourer available in three body lengths, it’s resorted to two now – M or XL. Both are practical, with a generous amount of interior space on offer. As with most vehicles of this type, boot space isn’t huge with all the seats in position, but with the rear-most seats folded it unlocks more than 2,000 litres of cargo room. Though you can remove the seats, it’s a pain to do so because of how much they weigh.
It’s also important to note that if you want the nine-seat model, you’ll need the Business version, as otherwise it comes with eight seats instead. On top-spec Flair models, you’re also able to scrap the middle row of seats in favour of two individual chairs for a more ‘VIP’ feel, though it’s a £400 option.
Engines
While diesel engines continue to prove popular on the SpaceTourer, it’s handy to know that an EV is available.
The entry-level diesel is a 118bhp 1.5-litre diesel, which comes mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.
Following this, all the other options are 2.0-litre models, available with outputs of 118bhp, 148bhp and 177bhp. The middle option uses a manual gearbox, whereas the other two feature an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 177bhp model is also noticeably the quickest SpaceTourer available – sprinting to 60mph in 8.8 seconds and hitting a top speed of 114mph.
If you go for the electric e-SpaceTourer, it comes with the same powertrain that you’d find in cars like the Vauxhall Corsa-e, getting a 134bhp electric motor and 50kWh battery enabling 143 miles of range.
Running costs
If you want the best running costs, the electric MPV is the one to go for, with low charging costs, free road tax and company car tax, and free access to emissions-based road schemes making it very affordable to run. Though it does come at a price in the first place.
The diesel models are all quite good on fuel, too, with all returning 40mpg. The 118bhp 1.5-litre is the most efficient, returning a claimed 47.1mpg on the combined cycle, which is good for a vehicle of this size. CO2 emissions are quite high, though, but no worse than rivals.
Things to look out for
Given the SpaceTourer shares plenty in common with vans and also a range of cars from Citroen, Peugeot and Vauxhall, there should be few concerns when it comes to reliability. As always, it’s worth having used examples mechanically inspected before buying and looking out for a full service history.
Rivals
The van-based MPV sector might not be the most popular around, but plenty of manufacturers compete in it. Key rivals include sibling vehicles to the SpaceTourer like the Peugeot Traveller, Toyota Proace Verso and Vauxhall Vivaro Life, while the Ford Tourneo Custom is also worth consideration, and is the only car in this class available as a plug-in hybrid. If you fancy something a bit more premium, have a look at the Mercedes V-Class or Volkswagen Caravelle, though both are noticeably more expensive.
Depreciation
Limited demand and desirability for the SpaceTourer makes it a seriously good used purchase, and we’d recommend avoiding new examples or trying to negotiate a big discount off list price. With some examples losing up to 50 per cent of their value in just 12 months, it’s a vehicle that suffers a significant depreciation hit.
