Knee clearance under steering wheel

[jfinchiva]

I like the Berlingo, but while test driving one, found what seems to be a significant disadvantage (for me at least 6'0" with fairly long legs): with the seat fully back and steering wheel in highest position of tilt, my left knee hit the steering wheel when I released the clutch. Have others encountered this? I think this was a 2012 model - is it the same for other model years? The salesman attributed this to the van-based car design, saying the driving position of similar cars (Kangoo/Partner etc.) has the same limitation. Is this true? 

Thanks

[Sol]

I've never come close to that, mind you I'm 5' 9 so I have short legs compared to you lol.

You know there's a hydraulic height adjuster on the seat - front left as you look down while sitting in the driver's seat. It's sort of a triangular-hoop shape if that makes sense. Push down on it repeatedly to put the seat lower and pull up repeatedly to pump it up. The seat was probably quite high that you tried so put it down to a lower setting and try that. I have mine quite high up cos I'm a bit of a short arse in the leg department.

Salesmen talk absolute drivel when you're looking at a car, I stop listening the moment they start talking.

[hawkeyefxr]

I am 5'11'' and only just got my multispace, and i have not had that trouble at all. I know there are people with short bodies and long legs and visa-versa though.
One thing i did notice is. that the seat height adjustment causes the seat to move forward when in the highest position
Having said that it is a very van type of position, all be it a comfortable one. I spent quite a few years driving an Escort van around the country through the 80's and 90's so maybe i am a little immune lol

[Sol]

I have to say I find the seats really comfortable even on a long run. I'm one of those with short legs and long body so I have to put the seat up, but I know what you mean about it moving forward. I just alter the distance to compensate.

My local garage owner is 6'4 and when he services my van he puts the seat way back. He owns a Partner of the same B9 shape and he loves it. Takes me a while to get the seat in my fave position once it's been moved tho.

My wife on the other hand has long legs but has her mini seat so close to the steering wheel, I can't get in it. No idea how she drives it like that! Seems to be a woman thing, driving so close to the wheel. She's a 34 inside leg and I'm a 30 leg, yet we are the same height.

[hawkeyefxr]

There's a lot to be said for seats that have a position memory, one touch of the button and it fit perfect after the wife has driven it.

[Sol]

Yeah, would be a nice touch in the van.

[Mike]

I've never had this issue and I am 6'0" and would agree with Zion that the seats on the Berlingo are pretty comfortable, great for long distances.