Citroen Berlingo vs Peugeot Partner Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (2008-2018): What’s the Difference?

If you’re looking for a used wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV), you’ve probably come across both the Citroen Berlingo and the Peugeot Partner. One of the questions I’m asked most often is:

“Are they the same vehicle?”

The simple answer is yes – and no.

The standard vehicles are almost identical, but once they’ve been converted into wheelchair accessible vehicles, there are some important differences that are worth understanding before you buy.

Having specialised in wheelchair accessible vehicles for over a decade and supplied more than 500 WAVs to customers across the UK, I’ve owned and sold hundreds of both models. Here’s what you need to know.

Important: This article refers to the second-generation Citroen Berlingo and Peugeot Partner produced between 2008 and 2018, including the facelifted models introduced in 2015. If you’re looking at the newer shape introduced from 2019 onwards, many of the points below no longer apply because both vehicles were redesigned.

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Quick Answer

Are the Citroen Berlingo and Peugeot Partner the same?

Yes.

The standard vehicles share:

• The same body shell
• The same chassis
• The same engines
• The same gearboxes
• The same suspension
• The same braking system
• The same interior layout

The biggest differences are:

• Front-end styling
• Badging
• Wheelchair conversion company
• Ramp design
• Seating layout
• Wheelchair space and practicality

So while the base vehicle is virtually identical, the wheelchair conversion can make a significant difference to how the vehicle works in everyday use.

Standard Equipment

Equipment levels vary depending on the trim level and year, but many later Berlingo and Partner models include features such as:

• Air conditioning
• Electric front windows
• Electric mirrors
• Remote central locking
• Bluetooth phone connectivity
• Driver and passenger airbags
• ABS brakes
• Power steering
• Trip computer
• Front fog lights

Higher specification models may also include:

• Cruise control
• Alloy wheels
• Front armrest
• Parking sensors
• Electric folding mirrors
• Roof rails

Because the vehicles are mechanically the same, you’ll often find very similar equipment available across both models.

The Biggest Difference Is the Wheelchair Conversion

This is where things become more interesting.

Neither Citroen nor Peugeot build factory wheelchair accessible vehicles. Instead, specialist conversion companies take a standard vehicle and professionally convert it into a WAV.

Each conversion company has its own approach to:

• Lowered floor design
• Rear ramp
• Seating layout
• Wheelchair restraint systems
• Interior finish

Although the base vehicle is almost identical, the finished wheelchair accessible vehicle can feel very different depending on who carried out the conversion.

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Allied Mobility Conversion (Usually Peugeot Partner/ Peugeot Horizon)

Allied Vehicles have traditionally based many of their wheelchair accessible vehicle conversions on the Peugeot Partner. Their best-known conversion is called the Peugeot Horizon, and it’s one of the most popular WAVs sold in the UK.

One of the biggest advantages is their FlexiFold rear ramp.

When the wheelchair isn’t being carried, the ramp folds neatly into the floor to create a flat luggage area, making the vehicle far more practical for everyday family use.

If having a proper boot space is important, this is a feature that many customers really appreciate.

Typical example of a 3 Seat Peugeot Partner / Horizon converted by Allied Vehicle showing the Fold Flat Ramp 

Want to learn more? You can also read my detailed guide to the Peugeot Horizon wheelchair accessible

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GM Coachworks Conversion (Usually Citroen Berlingo)

GM Coachworks have traditionally based many of their conversions on the Citroen Berlingo.

Their conversion offers several advantages.

The longer bi-fold rear ramp creates a shallower loading angle, making it easier to push heavier wheelchairs into the vehicle.

On many three-seat versions, the third rear passenger seat remains a full-size seat rather than a narrower occasional seat.

Another useful feature is that this third seat can usually be folded away or removed without tools, giving you extra flexibility when carrying larger wheelchairs or mobility equipment.

A typical example of a Citroen Berlingo Converted by GM Coachworks with Bi Fold Ramp

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Automotive Group Conversion (Usually Citroen Berlingo)

Automotive Group have developed a slightly different approach.

Their conversions often feature one of the widest rear access ramps available, although the difference is now much smaller when compared with later Allied Vehicles conversions.

Many customers also like the carpeted lowered floor, which gives the rear passenger area a more finished appearance.

Another useful feature is the extended lowered floor, which runs further towards the front seats.

This extra wheelchair space can make Automotive Group conversions particularly suitable for larger powered wheelchairs or some mobility scooters.

A typical example of a Citroen Berlingo Converted by the Automotive Group  with Bi Fold Ramp

 

                                  

Which Conversion Is Best?

There isn’t a single “best” conversion.

The right choice depends on your individual requirements.

If you regularly switch between carrying a wheelchair and using the vehicle as everyday transport, the Allied Vehicles FlexiFold ramp can be very practical.

If you need a shallower loading angle or prefer a full-size third seat, the GM Coachworks conversion may suit you better.

If you’re transporting a larger wheelchair or mobility scooter, an Automotive Group conversion may provide the additional space you need.

This is why I always recommend choosing the conversion that best matches your wheelchair and lifestyle, rather than simply choosing between Citroen or Peugeot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is the Citroen Berlingo bigger than the Peugeot Partner?

A: No. They share the same body shell and overall dimensions.

Q2: Do they use the same engines?

A: Yes. Depending on the model year, they use the same petrol and diesel engines as well as the same gearboxes.

Q3: Are the wheelchair conversions identical?

A: No. Each specialist conversion company designs its own lowered floor, ramp, seating arrangement and wheelchair restraint system.

Q4: Which is better for carrying a mobility scooter?

A: That depends on the size of your scooter. Some Automotive Group conversions offer a longer wheelchair area, making them particularly suitable for larger mobility scooters.

Q5: Which is the better vehicle?

A: Mechanically, they’re virtually identical. The decision should be based on the wheelchair conversion rather than whether the vehicle wears a Citroen or Peugeot badge.

Looking for a Used Citroen Berlingo or Peugeot Partner WAV?

At Michael Harraway Cars, I usually have a wide selection of quality used wheelchair accessible vehicles in stock, including Citroen Berlingo and Peugeot Partner models from a range of respected conversion companies.

Because I’ve specialised exclusively in wheelchair accessible vehicles for many years, I can explain the differences between each conversion and help you choose the vehicle that’s best suited to your wheelchair, mobility scooter and everyday needs.

Every vehicle is individually measured, professionally prepared and supplied with clear, honest advice so you know exactly what you’re buying.

If you’d like to discuss your requirements or arrange a viewing, feel free to get in touch. I’m always happy to answer questions and help you find the right wheelchair accessible vehicle for your needs.

Every vehicle is individually measured, professionally prepared and supplied with clear, honest advice so you know exactly what you’re buying.

If you’d like to discuss your requirements or arrange a viewing, call me directly on 01934 820077, or get in touch online — I’m always happy to answer questions and help you find the right wheelchair accessible vehicle for your needs.

Browse our current wheelchair accessible vehicles

 

Watch: Citroen Berlingo and Peugeot Partner WAV Walkaround Videos