Citroen Relay Campervan Review: The Ultimate Guide to Owning a Camper Van

Citroën Relay Campervan: A Comprehensive Review

The Citroën Relay has long been a popular choice for those seeking a practical and reliable van for everyday use. However, it's the campervan conversions that have truly captured the imagination of adventurers and explorers alike. In this review, we'll delve into the world of the Citroën Relay campervan, exploring its features, pros, and cons, and providing a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

First Impressions: Design and Exterior

The Citroën Relay campervan is a sight to behold. With its robust and muscular design, it exudes an air of rugged capability, ready to tackle any terrain. The high ground clearance and large alloy wheels further enhance this impression. The campervan conversions, such as those by well-known brands like Wellhouse Leisure and Autohomes, maintain the Relay's distinctive styling while adding their own unique touches, like sleek roof bars and elegant graphics.

Interior: Comfort and Practicality

Step inside the Citroën Relay campervan, and you're greeted by a spacious and comfortable interior. The conversions often feature a flexible layout, with a rear lounge that can convert into a double bed, and a fixed bed in the elevating roof. The kitchen area is typically equipped with a sink, hob, and fridge-freezer, providing all the essentials for self-catering on the go. The driving area is ergonomically designed, with a comfortable seat and intuitive controls.

One of the standout features of the Relay campervan is its sheer practicality. With a large rear door and optional side loading door, accessing the cargo area is a breeze. The Relay's load volume of up to 17 cubic metres (in the L4 H3 version) ensures there's plenty of space for all your gear, whether you're heading off on a weekend getaway or a long-term adventure.

Performance and Handling

The Citroën Relay campervan is powered by a range of efficient and powerful diesel engines, offering a balance of performance and economy. The BlueHDi engines, available in 110, 130, and 160 horsepower variants, provide ample torque for towing and hill climbing. The Relay's handling is confident and sure-footed, thanks to its advanced suspension and electronic stability control.

Citroën's unique Hydractive suspension, available on some models, automatically adjusts the vehicle's ride height to suit the driving conditions. This not only improves comfort but also reduces fuel consumption and emissions. The Relay's high driving position also provides excellent visibility, making it easy to navigate even the most challenging terrains.

Safety and Technology

The Citroën Relay campervan is packed with safety features, including ABS, ESP, and a driver attention alert system. The Relay also benefits from Citroën's Advanced Comfort programme, which includes features like a suspension designed to absorb and filter out road imperfections, and a cabin designed to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness.

In terms of technology, the Relay offers a range of infotainment systems, including the 8-inch Touch Drive interface with smartphone integration and voice recognition. The Relay also features a range of driving aids, such as a rear-view camera, parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control, making it easier and safer to navigate tight spaces and long journeys.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Spacious and practical interior
  • Robust and capable design
  • Efficient and powerful engines
  • Packed with safety features and technology
  • Excellent load volume and towing capacity
• Cons:
  • Ride can be firm on rough roads
  • Some rivals offer more car-like handling
  • Interior materials may not be as plush as some competitors

Pricing and Trims

The Citroën Relay campervan is available in a range of trims, from the entry-level X to the high-end Enterprise. Prices start at around £30,000 for a base model, rising to over £40,000 for a high-spec version. Campervan conversions can add a significant premium, with prices ranging from around £50,000 to over £70,000, depending on the level of customisation and equipment.

Here's a brief overview of the Relay's trim levels:

It's worth noting that the pricing and specifications of campervan conversions can vary significantly depending on the converter and the level of customisation. Always check with the converter for the most up-to-date information.

Conclusion

The Citroën Relay campervan is a formidable vehicle, combining practicality, capability, and comfort in a stylish and robust package. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-time camper, the Relay has much to offer. With a range of engines, trims, and conversions to choose from, there's a Relay campervan to suit every taste and budget. So, if you're in the market for a campervan that's built to last and ready to explore, the Citroën Relay is well worth a test drive.