The Citroen Nemo Multispace 1.4 HDi (70 hp) SensoDrive, produced between 2008 and 2010, represents a compact and practical offering within the first generation of the Nemo Multispace (often marketed as the Fiat Fiorino Qubo and Peugeot Bipper Tepee due to the shared platform). Positioned as an entry-level variant, this model aimed to provide affordable and fuel-efficient transportation for small families or commercial users needing a versatile vehicle. It was built upon the shared Citroen/Fiat/Peugeot platform, designated as the Project X19, and served as Citroen’s competitor in the burgeoning microvan segment, primarily targeting the European market. The SensoDrive automated manual transmission was a key feature, differentiating it from standard manual offerings.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Nemo |
| Generation | Nemo Multispace |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 HDi (70 Hp) SensoDrive |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5-5.7 l/100 km (42.8 – 41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7-3.8 l/100 km (63.6 – 61.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4-4.5 l/100 km (53.5 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 116-119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 18.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 18.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 17.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 151 km/h (93.83 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 70 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 50 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1750 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 8HS DV4TED |
| Engine displacement | 1399 cm3 (85.37 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.7 mm (2.9 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.35 l (7.77 US qt | 6.47 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1185-1200 kg (2612.48 – 2645.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1700-1710 kg (3747.86 – 3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510-515 kg (1124.36 – 1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 356 l (12.57 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2500 l (88.29 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%) | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Length | 3959 mm (155.87 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 | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Front overhang | 855 mm (33.66 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 591 mm (23.27 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.95 m (32.64 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission SensoDrive |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Nemo Multispace 1.4 HDi (70 hp) utilizes the PSA Group’s (Peugeot Citroen) 8HS (DV4TED) engine. This is a 1.4-liter, inline-four cylinder diesel engine employing common rail direct injection and a turbocharger with intercooler. The DV4TED engine family is known for its relatively simple design and durability. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating two valves per cylinder. The SensoDrive transmission is a five-speed automated manual gearbox. It operates without a traditional clutch pedal, utilizing actuators to shift gears. While marketed as an automatic, it’s fundamentally a manual gearbox controlled electronically, offering a different driving experience than a conventional torque converter automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The 70 hp output and SensoDrive transmission combination resulted in a leisurely driving experience. Acceleration was slow, with a 0-60 mph time of around 17.5 seconds. The SensoDrive transmission, while convenient, was often criticized for its jerky shifts and occasional hesitation, particularly at lower speeds. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than performance. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 HDi or even the standard manual 1.4 HDi versions, this variant felt noticeably underpowered, especially when fully loaded. However, its strength lay in its fuel efficiency and ease of driving in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 HDi (70 hp) SensoDrive typically represented a mid-range trim level. Standard equipment generally included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Interior upholstery was typically a durable cloth material. Optional extras included air conditioning, a radio/CD player, and alloy wheels. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The rear seats could be folded down to increase cargo space, enhancing the vehicle’s versatility.
Chassis & Braking
The Nemo Multispace featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a trailing arm rear suspension with a transverse stabilizer bar. This setup provided a reasonable level of ride comfort, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drums. This configuration was typical for vehicles in this weight class and price range. The hydraulic power steering provided light and easy steering, making it maneuverable in tight spaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nemo Multispace 1.4 HDi (70 hp) SensoDrive was generally well-received for its fuel economy and practicality. Critics praised its compact size and versatile interior. However, the SensoDrive transmission received mixed reviews, with many finding it less refined than traditional automatic gearboxes. Compared to the manual 1.4 HDi, the SensoDrive version offered convenience at the expense of performance and fuel economy. The more powerful 1.6 HDi variants provided significantly better performance but came at a higher price point.
Legacy
The Citroen Nemo Multispace, and specifically the 1.4 HDi (70 hp) SensoDrive variant, has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle. The DV4TED engine is known for its durability, and the SensoDrive transmission, while not without its quirks, has generally held up well over time. On the used car market, these models are often sought after for their affordability and fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the SensoDrive transmission and ensure it has been properly maintained. The Nemo Multispace, along with its Fiat and Peugeot counterparts, helped to popularize the microvan segment in Europe, offering a practical and economical transportation solution for a wide range of users.
