The first spy photos have surfaced of the upcoming hybrid Citroën Berlingo, marking a new step toward electrification for this popular compact van. This version will combine a 1.5-litre diesel engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, allowing it to qualify for the ECO environmental badge in Spain.
Visible Prototype Shows Key Testing Activities
The test vehicle was spotted without camouflage on public roads, running towing tests essential for developing the new powertrain. Citroën chose the Berlingo—a core product for Stellantis in the compact van market—to pilot this mild hybrid drivetrain. The Berlingo recently celebrated 30 years since its debut, with over 4.2 million units sold worldwide.
The prototypes reveal little change in exterior design, suggesting that the hybrid upgrades are mainly under the skin rather than visible styling updates. This phase of testing confirms that the hybrid system will be integrated to reduce emissions and fuel use.
Diesel Mild Hybrid Powertrain Details
Unlike other Stellantis mild hybrids that typically combine gasoline engines and 48-volt electrification, this Berlingo hybrid will rely on a diesel engine as its base. Specifically, it uses the established 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel engine already available across the model range. This diesel unit will work alongside a 48-volt mild hybrid system featuring a small 0.9 kWh lithium-ion battery.
The electric motor will be built into the automatic gearbox and will power the front wheels. This setup aims to improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions while enabling the vehicle to carry the ECO label issued by Spain’s traffic authority (DGT). That badge provides perks like easier access to low-emission zones.
Expected Market Arrival and Context
Citroën has confirmed that this mild hybrid Berlingo will arrive in 2027. It will complement the current diesel HDi lineup, which offers outputs of 100 hp and 130 hp. Stellantis previously hinted at electrifying their commercial vans with microhybrid technology about two years ago, and this new Berlingo hybrid represents the first concrete step in that direction.
Besides Citroën, sister brands such as Peugeot, Opel, and Fiat are also expected to launch similar hybrids based on the same technology. Overall, this move reflects Stellantis’ strategy to meet stricter emission standards while expanding their commercial vehicle choices with cleaner powertrains.
Source: motor.es