Overloading of small vans is a perennial problem – the temptation to fit in everything possible regardless of weight is sometimes too strong, especially for vans used on local work.

Perhaps it is in response to this problem that Citroen has launched an updated version of its Berlingo First van ( the First is basically the old model Berlingo). The Berlingo First previously had a reasonable small van payload of 600kg. This has now been upgraded to 749kg, with the new van designated as the Berlingo First 750.

The Berlingo First 750 has uprated suspension to cope with the extra weight and also now comes with an underbody protection plate – perhaps because it is likely to be popular with builders and get bounced around building sites.

The increased payload takes the van’s maximum gross weight up to 1,955kg, and its towing capacity has also increased to 1,070kg. Powered by a Citroen’s popular 1.6HDi diesel engine, this makes a pretty flexible and capable package and is likely to be popular.