CITROEN'S workhorse, the Dispatch van received a turbocharged boost when it received the International Van of the the Year accolade in 2008 and since then it has gone from strength to strength.
Much has been said of the van's styling and practicality as it sports the latest Citroen frontal identity and massive and easily accessed loadspace.
But one of the better features of the Enterprise range is the 1.6 HDi 90bhp engine option. This everyday hero of a diesel really is an engine for its time.
Propelling this generously-proportioned load-lugger with a respectable degree of pace, this engine, driven via a five-speed gearbox returns nearly 40mpg on the Combined cycle and features a CO2 emissions figure of 191g/km.
Although not the most powerful diesel Dispatch – there is a 120bhp 2.0 HDi six-speed version available – it is a highly efficient financial solution to businesses running high-mileage fleets.
This engine, although small in capacity is an astonishing performer, being accelerative and muscular enough to handle heavy loads. And it is silent enough for a peaceful life in the cab.
The latest Dispatch builds on the success of the previous model and one of the latest versions is the Enterprise specification which features Bluetooth connection, a USB Box and rear parking sensors.
This is in addition to the standard features on the van which include Trafficmaster Smartnav satellite navigation and Trackstar stolen vehicle tracking systems.
Citroen says that the standard fitment of Trafficmaster Smartnav provides major time, fuel and efficiency gains which are worth some £2,000 per year per vehicle.
There is also a safety gain because the system can guide the driver direct to a destination without the frustration of getting lost, having to stop to refer to a road book or directions.
Other major benefits include standard ABS and EBA which are complemented by the option of ESP with traction control and electronic roll mitigation which all goes to prove that the modern van is a far cry from the angry old numbers of a few decades ago which sometimes featured the handling of a shopping trolley.
And if this is not enough there is also a version with enhanced traction for getting to those places few other commercials can reach.
For maximum loading efficiency, Dispatch vans have large loading side doors and big side-hinged rear doors which are available in unglazed or optional glazed format. The latest model also continues the low load height which has made this van such a favourite with operators.
Another key point is that in L1H1 form, the Dispatch is no longer than a family car and can park easily at meters and can be driven onto multi-storey car parks which have a height limit of 1950mm.
FAST FACTS
Citroen Dispatch Enterprise L1H1 90bhp van
Price: £16,450
Mechanical: 90bhp, 1,560cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox
Combined mpg: 39.2
CO2 emissions: 191g/km
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles