Used Citroen Nemo for sale
Finding the right vehicle for your business or family life isn't always about getting the biggest engine or the flashiest design. sometimes, you just need a clever, compact workhorse that fits into tight parking spaces and doesn't cost a fortune to run.
If you're hunting for a small van that punches well above its weight, the Citroen Nemo deserves a spot on your shortlist. It’s been a favourite among city drivers and small business owners for years, thanks to its cheeky character and surprising practicality.
Whether you need a reliable runner for deliveries or a flexible family car that can handle the school run and the weekly shop, this little Citroen has plenty to offer. Let's take a look at why a used Citroen Nemo might be the perfect fit for your driveway.
Why Buy a Used Citroen Nemo?
One of the biggest selling points of the Nemo is its size. It is genuinely compact, making it a dream to drive around busy town centres. You can zip through traffic and squeeze into parking spots that would leave larger vans circling the block.
Despite its small footprint, it offers a generous amount of space inside. It’s affordable to buy and cheap to run, which is great news if you are keeping an eye on your budget. Plus, its quirky styling gives it a bit more personality than your average commercial vehicle.
Citroen Nemo Overview
Launched in 2008, the citroen nemo was part of a trio of small vans developed together, sitting alongside the Peugeot Bipper and the Fiat Fiorino. While they share a lot of DNA, the Citroen has its own distinct charm.
It was designed to bridge the gap between car-derived vans and larger commercial vehicles. It’s simple, robust, and functional. Most models you’ll find for sale come with a frugal 1.3-litre or 1.4-litre diesel engine, though there was a petrol option early in its life.
The cabin is basic but durable, designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily work. It’s not a luxury cruiser, but it gets the job done with a smile.
Generations / Trims Breakdown
X Trim
The entry-level X trim is all about keeping things simple. It covers the basics, giving you a functional workspace without the frills. You usually get a driver's airbag and ABS, but don't expect too many creature comforts. It’s a solid choice if you just need a basic van for work.
LX Trim
Stepping up to the LX adds a few more luxuries that make daily driving nicer. You can typically expect electric windows and heated door mirrors, which are very handy on frosty mornings. The driver's seat often has more adjustment options, helping you get comfy for longer shifts.
Enterprise Trim
The range-topping Enterprise is the one to look for if you want a bit more kit. It usually adds air conditioning, parking sensors, and Bluetooth connectivity. These features make a huge difference if you spend hours in your van every day.
Body Style or Trim Comparison
The Panel Van
The standard panel van is the bread and butter of the range. It features two seats up front and a dedicated load space in the back. It offers a load volume of around 2.5 cubic metres, which is impressive for a vehicle of this size. The passenger seat can often fold down to accommodate longer items, adding to its versatility.
The Nemo Multispace
If you need seats rather than just cargo space, look for a citroen nemo multispace. This is the passenger version, effectively turning the van into a practical, rugged MPV. It has rear windows, a rear bench seat, and sliding doors on both sides.
The Multispace is brilliant for families who need a car that can take a beating. It offers massive headroom and a huge boot with the seats up. If you fold the rear seats away, it turns back into a van, giving you the best of both worlds.
What to Look for When Buying
Check the Suspension Top Mounts
One of the most common issues with the Nemo is the front suspension top mounts. They can rust and seize, leading to clonking noises or even steering issues. Have a listen for knocks when you are on a test drive.
Inspect the Sliding Doors
If you are looking at a Multispace or a van with side doors, check the runners. They can get grit in them and become stiff or gritty to open. It’s usually an easy fix with some cleaning, but it’s worth checking.
Test the Gearbox
Whether you are looking at a manual or the EGS automatic, make sure the gear changes are smooth. The manual clutch can feel heavy if it’s on its way out. The automatic gearbox (Sensodrive) can be jerky, so make sure it shifts correctly.
Look for Rust
While modern cars are better protected, check the sills and wheel arches for any signs of bubbling. This is especially true if the van has lived a hard life on building sites or near the coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features of the Citroen Nemo and its variants?
The citroen nemo is defined by its compact dimensions (under 4 meters long) and a surprisingly large 2.5 cubic metre load volume. Key features often include an Extenso passenger seat that folds flat to extend load length, handy sliding side doors for easy access, and economical diesel engines. The Multispace variant adds rear seating and windows, transforming it into a spacious family car.
How does the Citroen Nemo compare to its competitors?
The Nemo shares its platform with the Fiat Fiorino and Peugeot Bipper, so they are very similar mechanically. However, the Nemo often stands out for value when looking for a citroen nemo for sale. Compared to the Ford Transit Courier, the Nemo feels a bit more compact and agile in city streets, though the Ford might offer a slightly more car-like driving position.
What are common reliability issues in the Citroen Nemo?
The Nemo is generally robust, but front suspension top mounts are a known weak point and can fail due to water ingress. Listen for knocking sounds over bumps. We also recommend checking the operation of the side loading doors, as runners can wear. On diesel models driven exclusively in the city, DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) lights can occasionally appear if the van hasn't had a long run.
What is the expected fuel economy and performance?
You won't be setting lap records, but the Nemo is very wallet-friendly. The 1.3 HDi and 1.4 HDi diesel engines are capable of returning between 60 to 65 mpg in mixed driving conditions. Performance is modest but adequate for urban environments, with enough torque to haul a decent payload without struggling in traffic.
Where can potential buyers find the best deals on used Citroen Nemo vans?
You can search for a high-quality used Citroen Nemo right here at Cazoo. We have a range of used vans available that have been thoroughly inspected to ensure they meet our standards. You can browse our selection online and choose to have your vehicle delivered to your door or collected from a Customer Centre.
