A RED-hot battle looks likely in the medium van sector as Citroen announces keen prices for its new Berlingo range. The Berlingo is a purpose-built van set to challenge the likes of the Ford Escort and Vauxhall Combo, which are both car-derived.

On sale from today (October 15), the Berlingo 1.8D 600 will cost £7,990 ex-VAT plus £480 delivery charges; the 1.9D 600 £8,650 and the 1.9D 800 £8,850. The 1.8D 600, expected to be the biggest seller, undercuts the Ford Escort 55 van by more than £1,300.

All Berlingos come with a standard driver's airbag, keypad immobiliser, multi-functional passenger seat, stereo radio/cassette player, non-slip cargo bay floor and internal headlamp height adjustment.