The Citroen Nemo Panel Van 1.3 HDi (75 hp) EGS is a compact panel van produced by the French manufacturer Citroen between 2010 and 2015. Part of the first generation Nemo range, this variant served as an entry-level workhorse, designed for urban delivery and small business applications. It was built in collaboration with Fiat and Peugeot, sharing its platform and many components with the Fiat Fiorino and Peugeot Bipper. The Nemo Panel Van, in its various configurations, aimed to provide a practical and economical solution for commercial users needing a small, maneuverable vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Nemo |
| Generation | Nemo Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 HDi (75 Hp) EGS |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 109 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 157 km/h (97.56 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.5 kg/Hp, 68.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1500 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | FHZ F13DTE5 |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69.6 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1090 kg (2403.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 660 kg (1455.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 2500 l (88.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2800 l (98.88 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 3864 mm (152.13 in.) |
| Width | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2019 mm (79.49 in.) |
| Height | 1721 mm (67.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2513 mm (98.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1469 mm (57.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Front overhang | 760 mm (29.92 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 591 mm (23.27 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.95 m (32.64 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission EGS |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm, Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Citroen Nemo Panel Van 1.3 HDi (75 hp) EGS, launched in 2010, represented Citroen’s entry into the burgeoning microvan segment. Built as part of a collaborative project with Fiat and Peugeot (resulting in the Fiorino and Bipper respectively), the Nemo was designed to offer a compact, efficient, and affordable solution for urban delivery services and small businesses. The ‘EGS’ designation indicates the presence of an automated manual transmission, a cost-effective alternative to a traditional automatic gearbox. This particular variant, with its 75 horsepower engine, occupied the lower end of the Nemo Panel Van lineup, prioritizing fuel economy and affordability over outright performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Nemo 1.3 HDi (75 hp) EGS is the FHZ F13DTE5 engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine is turbocharged and intercooled, enhancing power output despite its relatively small displacement. The SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain operates two valves per cylinder. The EGS (Electronically Controlled Gearbox) transmission is a five-speed automated manual. It uses actuators to shift gears, offering a degree of automation without the complexity and cost of a full automatic transmission. While providing convenience, the EGS is known for being less smooth than traditional automatics, with noticeable shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 75 hp output and the EGS transmission combine to deliver a driving experience focused on practicality rather than excitement. Acceleration is modest, with a 0-60 mph time of around 14.9 seconds. The engine produces 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque at 1500 rpm, providing adequate pulling power for urban driving and light loads. The EGS transmission, while convenient, can feel jerky during shifts, particularly at lower speeds. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often operates at higher revs during acceleration. Compared to higher-powered versions of the Nemo, this variant feels noticeably slower, but it compensates with superior fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Nemo Panel Van 1.3 HDi (75 hp) EGS was typically equipped as a basic work vehicle. Standard features included a driver’s airbag, central locking, and power steering. The interior was functional and durable, with hard-wearing plastics and cloth upholstery. Air conditioning and a radio/CD player were often optional extras. The van’s focus was on providing a practical load-carrying space, with minimal frills. Trim levels were generally limited, with options primarily revolving around adding features like upgraded audio systems, parking sensors, and different body configurations (e.g., different door arrangements).
Chassis & Braking
The Nemo Panel Van utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride for a commercial vehicle. The rear suspension employs a trailing arm setup with coil springs and a torsion beam. This configuration balances load-carrying capacity with acceptable handling characteristics. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The relatively light weight of the vehicle (around 1090 kg / 2403 lbs) contributes to its manageable handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen Nemo 1.3 HDi (75 hp) EGS was generally well-received as an affordable and economical solution for urban delivery. Critics praised its compact size, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency. However, the EGS transmission was often criticized for its lack of smoothness. Compared to the more powerful 1.9-liter diesel versions of the Nemo, this variant offered significantly lower performance but boasted superior fuel economy. The Fiat Fiorino and Peugeot Bipper, being mechanically identical, offered similar pros and cons. The Nemo’s main competitors included the Renault Kangoo and Ford Transit Connect.
Legacy
The Citroen Nemo Panel Van 1.3 HDi (75 hp) EGS has proven to be a relatively reliable workhorse in the used car market. The 1.3 HDi engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is crucial. The EGS transmission can be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Today, these vans are often found in the hands of small businesses and tradespeople, continuing to provide affordable and practical transportation. While not a performance icon, the Nemo 1.3 HDi (75 hp) EGS remains a testament to Citroen’s commitment to providing functional and economical vehicles for commercial users.
