Gundog Training Forum

Hope this is in the right place. Has anyone got any recommendations/pros-cons for a dog van ? I quite like the size/layout of the new shape berlingo and the caddy but am open to any suggestions as long as it's not too big. I don't really want/need a 4x4 as most of the shoots/trials I go to don't really require the use of one these days but open to having a look at one if needs be. The reason I'm swaying toward a small van is the space, and some of the little diesels boast really good mpg which is important when you're from Yorkshire , I don't want anything too thirsty!

ive heard good things about the Berlingo. A few people i kow swear by them for reliability & mpg & being good dog cars, as you can fit a really big crate in the back.

Have a new shape peugeot partner (same as berlingo) can't fault mine, good mpg and reasonable performance, they come in two BHP options, I went for the higher, and I also have the long wheel base version which has folding rear seats and the same load space as the shorter version yet a 5 seater, which comes in handy.

I have a 1.3 diesel Vauxhall combo with side loading door, Its great on juice and I easily fit all 8 of my crew in...=)

I have also got a new shape Peugeot Partner which is the long wheel base crew van which is really useful its great and i have had no problems with. but i did have a Vauxhall Combo 1.3cdti before which was better on juice and more fun to drive but alot smaller and was very reliable!

you can get 4x4 berlingos

I wish they'd do one with decent ground clearance though beacause that would be the perfect vehicle for me.

Maybe we should start suggesting it.

Rascal

The 4x4 versions are generally permanent 4x4, this means they are robbed of their good diesel economy.

Also, unless you can get increased wheel clearance, then they are really only useful for on-road slippery conditions (such as snow).

However, a 2-wheel-drive, reasonable clearance model (Fiat Doblo seems good) with the addition of chunky tyres would be pretty good for estate tracks, etc.

Also, have a look at the Doblo for their value for money prices - they are cheap, (used), but their 1.9 JTD engine is brilliant. A lifting rear door is good and the Doblo can be had with twin side sliding doors which are very useful.

Cheers, Terry

I use the vw caddy....it's great! If I didn't need a 4x4 I would definitely replace mine with the caddy

Tjpippa wrote:I use the vw caddy....it's great! If I didn't need a 4x4 I would definitely replace mine with the caddy

Im with you on this , I have one of those too within my company and the fuel economy is unbelievable coupled with top class build quality and sheer comfort, I believe Vicky Payne did a write up on hers for sporting shooter its well worth a read if your considering something like this