The gorgeous Citroen C4 Picasso MPV is a visual treat. Yet again the French company proves it knows a thing or two about automotive styling. Five and seven seat versions are now on sale and both have their own look. I’m in the seven-seater this week.
The mid-sized MPV sector is brimming with talented cars like the huge selling Opel Zafira, Toyota Corolla Verso, sporty Ford S-Max and ever-popular Renault Scenic but now there is a clear style leader with the C4 Picasso. Based on the running gear of the C4 hatchback, the C4 Picasso is only 2cm shorter than the full-size Citroen C8 MPV; so remember to tick the box for parking radar! The exterior features the Citroen's striking corporate nose and a massive panoramic front windscreen that is the most novel and innovative design feature.
Inside the cabin is bright and spacious. The seating is flexible and easy to use. When configured as a five-seater the C4 Picasso's boot is massive, but the car really shines as a seven-seater. The last two seats pop up out of the floor effortlessly and there is even room to stow the cargo cover when all seven seats are in place, although you will find more boot space for school bags in an S-Max. C4 Picasso has a split opening tailgate and one of the nicer touches is the cargo light that is also a removable torch. It is a strong vehicle too with a top Euro NCAP score of Five Stars in crash tests.
My diesel test car had all the toys fitted and a price tag to match. Some of the more interesting toys included a steering wheel mounted button labelled ‘P’ that sizes-up parking spaces. As you slowly drive past the C4 will alert you to any gaps where the car could fit! The integral DVD screens mounted in the front seatbacks and wireless headphones were a huge hit with the kids and in no time they were able to operate the controls like pros. Citroen’s excellent cruise control and speed limiter is standard.
So far Citroen has been surprised at the popularity of the entry level 1.6 litre HDi diesel engine that accounts for 70% of sales since launch. With 110bhp this engine makes great sense in a family car and returns excellent mpg.
The engine range has two petrol units (1.8 & 2 litre) and two diesels (1.6 & 2 litre) and while a manual gearbox is standard you can opt for an ‘EGS’ automatic version if you wish. EGS gives you column-mounted paddle shifts or you can leave the car in ‘D’ and the Picasso will drive like a regular automatic. All versions feature an electronic handbrake that’s similar to the one found in the Renault Scenic.
On the go the C4 Picasso has a comfortable soft ride that is fine for relaxed driving. However the Spanish built car cannot compete with the S-Max when it comes to dynamic handling.
The C4 Picasso is a superb effort and a car I’d spend my own money on!
Michael Sheridan
