Citroen Jumper is a legend. For 30 years, it has been serving professionals of all kinds, from artisans to large fleets, with its innovative design, robustness, and versatility. It is the successor of the iconic TUB and Type H, two models that revolutionized the utility vehicle market in the 20th century. Today, Citroen Jumper is more modern than ever, offering efficient thermal, electric, and soon-to-come hydrogen powertrains, comprehensive connectivity, and the latest generation of driving aids. In this article, I will explore this remarkable van's history, features, and future, symbolizing Citroen's expertise and creativity.
The Origins of Citroen Jumper
Citroen Jumper was born in 1994 as part of a joint venture between PSA Peugeot Citroen and Fiat called Sevel (Société Européenne de Véhicules Légers). The project aimed to create a new range of light commercial vehicles that would meet the diverse needs of professionals in Europe. The result was the Citroen Jumper and its siblings, the Peugeot Boxer and the Fiat Ducato.
The first generation of Citroen Jumper was a breakthrough in the van market, as it offered a level of comfort, ergonomics, and driving pleasure inspired by passenger cars. It also boasted a modern and dynamic design, with a large windshield, a sloping bonnet, and a distinctive grille. The interior was spacious and functional, with a dashboard that integrated all the controls and instruments and a steering wheel that could be adjusted in height and depth. The seats were comfortable and supportive, and the cabin was well-insulated from noise and vibrations.
But the Citroen Jumper was not only about style and comfort. It was also about performance and practicality. It had a wide range of engines, from 1.9 to 2.8 liters, with power outputs from 68 to 122 hp. It had a front-wheel drive configuration with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. It had a payload capacity of up to 1,500 kg and a loading volume of up to 13 m3. It had a variety of configurations, from panel vans to combi, to suit different uses and professions. It had a high level of safety, with ABS, airbags, and reinforced body structure. It had a low cost of ownership, with low fuel consumption, maintenance, and insurance costs.
The first generation of Citroen Jumper was a success, selling more than 800,000 units in 10 years. Several prizes were also awarded, including the Van of the Year in 1994 and the Best Large Van in 1997.
The Evolution of Citroen Jumper
In 2006, Citroen Jumper entered its second generation with significant restyling and improvements. The design was more refined and elegant, with a new front end, headlights, bumpers, and wheel covers. The interior was more modern and ergonomic, with a new dashboard, seats, storage spaces, and equipment. The engines were more powerful and efficient, with a range of diesel units from 100 to 160 hp, equipped with joint rail injection and turbochargers. The transmissions were improved with a six-speed or six-speed automated manual. The payload capacity increased to 1,900 kg, and the loading volume was expanded to 17 m3. The configurations were diversified, with more than 600 versions available, including chassis cab, dropside, tipper, and motorhome. The safety was enhanced with ESP, ASR, hill start, and brake assist. The connectivity was upgraded with a new radio, CD player, MP3 player, Bluetooth, and USB port.
The second generation of Citroen Jumper was also a success, selling more than 900,000 units in 12 years. Several awards also recognized it, such as the Best Large Van in 2007 and the Best Motorhome Base Vehicle in 2010.
In 2014, Citroen Jumper received a facelift with a new grille, headlights, taillights, and colors. The interior was refreshed with new upholstery, trim, and equipment. The engines were updated with a new 2.0-liter BlueHDi diesel unit, with power outputs from 110 to 160 hp and lower emissions and fuel consumption. The transmissions were optimized with a new six-speed manual or six-speed automatic option. The payload capacity was maintained, up to 1,900 kg, and the loading volume was unchanged, up to 17 m3. The configurations were unchanged, with more than 600 versions available, including panel van, combi, chassis cab, dropside, tipper, and motorhome. The safety was improved with a new rearview camera, lane departure warning system, and blind spot monitoring system. The connectivity was enhanced with a new touchscreen, navigation system, and Mirror Screen function.
The facelifted Citroen Jumper was well received by the customers and the critics, selling more than 300,000 units in 6 years. Several awards also praised it, such as the Best Large Van in 2015 and the Best Motorhome Base Vehicle in 2016.
