French automakers Peugeot and Citroen have reintroduced diesel versions of their Rifter and Berlingo compact vans in response to a significant decline in demand for electric models. The new generation of these vans, initially offered exclusively with electric powertrains, experienced a drop in sales of 30-40% in 2022-2023 due to high prices of the electric variants.
To attract customers looking for more affordable options, Peugeot and Citroen have swiftly launched diesel versions of the Rifter and Berlingo equipped with a 1.5-liter turbodiesel engine in two power configurations – 100 and 136 horsepower. The entry-level models come with a manual transmission, while higher trim levels offer an 8-speed automatic.
One of the key selling points of the diesel models is their significantly lower price compared to the electric versions. For example, in France, the Peugeot Rifter with a 100-horsepower diesel engine starts at 26,830 euros, which is 10,000 euros cheaper than the e-Rifter electric model. Similarly, in Germany, a diesel Citroen Berlingo is priced at a minimum of 26,090 euros, while the e-Berlingo electric model costs 36,940 euros.
Despite the reintroduction of diesel variants, Peugeot and Citroen have not launched a new advertising campaign. On their official European websites, electric vehicles are still highlighted as the primary models in the Rifter and Berlingo lineups. The move to offer diesel options quietly aims to provide customers with more affordable alternatives without overshadowing the automakers’ commitment to electric mobility.
