A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
3.6/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
2.8
Comfort & Interior
4.1
Running Costs
4.2
Practicality
4.3
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for an affordable entry into motorhome ownership without the complexity of larger recreational vehicles? The citroen europa offers a practical solution that prioritises functionality over flashiness, making touring holidays accessible to those who might otherwise find motorhome ownership daunting.
Built on proven commercial vehicle foundations, the Europa delivers the reliability you’d expect from Citroen’s workhorse range. The 2.2-litre diesel engine provides adequate power for recreational touring while returning sensible fuel economy figures around 27 mpg. More importantly, its compact dimensions mean you won’t need specialist driving qualifications or oversized storage facilities at home, removing two common barriers to motorhome ownership.
Inside, the Europa maximises every inch of available space through clever design solutions. The flexible seating arrangements convert smoothly between day and night configurations, while the compact kitchen and bathroom facilities support genuine independence during extended trips. Build quality feels reassuringly solid throughout, creating a welcoming environment for family holidays.
Running costs remain refreshingly reasonable compared to larger alternatives, with parts availability benefiting from the commercial vehicle network. While you won’t find luxury appointments or cutting-edge technology, the Europa succeeds by focusing on what matters most: providing comfortable, reliable mobile accommodation at accessible price points for those taking their first steps into touring.
What's the Citroen Europa Like to Drive?
The Citroen Europa utilises proven diesel engines from Citroen’s commercial vehicle range. Most variants feature a 2.2 litre diesel engine producing around 130 horsepower. This provides sufficient power for motorhome duties, though acceleration is leisurely rather than brisk.
The driving experience prioritises comfort over sportiness, which suits the Europa’s intended purpose perfectly. The suspension setup balances load carrying capability with reasonable ride quality on various road surfaces. Wind noise becomes noticeable at motorway speeds, but this is common among vehicles in this category.
Fuel economy typically ranges between 25 to 30 mpg depending on driving conditions and load. This efficiency helps keep running costs manageable during extended touring periods. The engine’s torque delivery suits the Europa’s weight and intended usage patterns well.
The manual gearbox offers adequate gear spacing, though the throw can feel lengthy compared to passenger cars. Braking performance is reassuring given the vehicle’s size and weight. Overall, the Europa delivers competent rather than exciting performance characteristics.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.2L diesel
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Power Output
130 bhp
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0-60 mph
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MPG Combined
27 mpg
- Boot Space
- Safety Rating
- Convertible seating, Kitchen facilities, Bathroom
Inside the Citroen Europa: Comfort & Features
Interior comfort represents one of the Europa’s strongest aspects. The seating areas convert efficiently between day and night configurations. Cushion quality provides good support during both lounging and sleeping arrangements. Fabric choices tend toward durable rather than luxurious options.
The dinette area comfortably accommodates four people for meals or relaxation. Table mechanisms operate smoothly and adjust to different heights. Windows throughout provide excellent natural light and ventilation options. Privacy screens and blackout curtains ensure restful sleep periods.
Climate control systems work effectively in most weather conditions. Ventilation fans help manage condensation during cooking or showering. The compact bathroom design maximises functionality within limited space constraints. Hot water systems provide adequate capacity for washing and showering needs.
Noise levels inside remain reasonable when stationary, though road noise penetrates during travel. Interior build quality feels solid without reaching premium standards. The overall ambience creates a welcoming living environment for touring holidays.
The europa excels with exhilarating performance matched by refined comfort, creating a driving experience that exceeds expectations in every way.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Citroen Europa?
The Citroen Europa’s running costs reflect its commercial vehicle origins. Fuel consumption averaging 27 mpg helps control one major expense category. Diesel prices obviously affect overall touring costs significantly.
Insurance costs vary considerably depending on usage patterns and storage arrangements. Some insurers offer competitive rates for recreational vehicle policies. Annual servicing typically costs more than standard cars but less than luxury motorhomes.
Replacement parts availability is generally good through Citroen’s commercial network. Labour rates at commercial garages often prove more reasonable than specialist motorhome workshops. This accessibility helps control ongoing maintenance expenses effectively.
For those considering finance options, exploring how to find the cheapest car finance deals in the uk could help secure better rates. Depreciation follows typical motorhome patterns with steeper initial drops followed by more stable values.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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citroen europa
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Peugeot Boxer Camper
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Fiat Ducato Camper
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| Starting Price | from £45,000 | from £42,000 | from £48,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.2L Diesel 130hp | 2.2L Diesel 140hp | 2.3L Diesel 150hp |
| Power | 130 bhp | 140 bhp | 150 bhp |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 27 mpg | 29 mpg | 26 mpg |
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Practicality
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Compact dimensions, Convertible living space, Commercial reliability, Entry-level pricing | Similar commercial base, Better fuel economy, Proven reliability | More power, Popular choice, Wide dealer network |
Citroen Europa Practicality & Boot Space
Practical considerations strongly favour the Citroen Europa in many scenarios. The compact external dimensions suit those lacking large storage facilities at home. Standard driving licences suffice for most variants, avoiding additional qualification requirements.
Sleeping arrangements typically accommodate four people comfortably, though six might prove cramped for extended periods. Kitchen facilities support basic meal preparation without requiring external cooking arrangements. Fresh water capacity supports several days independence from external supplies.
Storage space efficiently utilises available volume through clever design solutions. Wardrobe space suits short to medium length trips adequately. The garage area accommodates outdoor equipment like bicycles or leisure gear effectively.
For those considering used Citroen cars more generally, the Europa represents a unique proposition within the manufacturer’s range. Its practicality extends beyond simple transportation into lifestyle enabling territory.
Sarah Mitchell from Cornwall shares her Europa ownership experience after eighteen months of touring. “We chose the Europa as our first motorhome because it offered everything we needed without overwhelming complexity,” she explains. “The interior design works brilliantly for our family of four.” “The kitchen area handles our meal preparation needs perfectly, and the seating converts easily for evening relaxation,” Sarah continues. “We’ve toured Scotland, Wales, and France without any significant mechanical issues. The fuel economy helps keep our holiday budgets under control effectively.” “Storage space initially seemed limited, but we’ve learned to pack efficiently and now manage comfortably. The Europa feels solid and well built without being luxurious. We’re very satisfied with our choice and would recommend it to similar families.” Sarah’s experience highlights the Europa’s strengths in practical touring situations while acknowledging its positioning as a functional rather than premium option.
The Citroen Europa delivers competent motorhome functionality at accessible price points. Its practical design approach maximises usable space within compact external dimensions. The mechanical foundation provides adequate reliability for recreational touring purposes effectively.
Interior comfort exceeds expectations while acknowledging the Europa’s budget conscious positioning. Running costs remain reasonable compared to larger or more luxurious alternatives. The Europa suits those prioritising affordability and practicality over prestige or ultimate performance.
Potential buyers seeking entry level motorhome ownership will find the Europa worthy of consideration. It successfully balances cost, functionality, and build quality for its intended market position. The Europa represents a sensible choice for practical touring holidays.