The spirited Citroën C3 Picasso takes an exciting new direction in body design, blending the roomy, versatile shapes of an MPV with the quality, agility and comfort of a family hatchback.
From the outside, the C3 Picasso’s cube-like body shape, with its short overhang at the front and rear, instantly communicates the important design focus placed upon maximising internal space, whilst the smooth, rounded curves that soften the contours of the body form an expression of fluidity and purpose, and make it easy to park.
The C3 Picasso is available with a choice of four 5-speed manual engines from launch – two new petrol engines, which have been co-developed with BMW and two well established HDi diesel units – allowing drivers to select their ideal blend of agile city performance and long-distance fuel economy. The two petrol units – VTi 95 and VTi 120 – combine efficient economy with responsive performance and lowered CO2 emissions. Both diesel engines – the HDi 90 and HDi 110 DPFS – are from Citroën’s impressive HDi line up boasting near 60mpg fuel economy and low combined-cycle CO2 emissions. The HDi 110 also features an ‘overboost’ function that increases turbo pressure when an extra burst of power is needed. Citroën’s HDi diesel range can also be run on up to 30% bio-diesel, without modification.
Offering value for money at a competitive price, the entry-level VT model features generous levels of standard equipment such as an MP3-compatible CD player with steering wheel mounted controls, electrically adjustable door mirrors, front electric windows and a trip computer. At the heart of the range, the VTR+ trim gains smart 16” alloy wheels, air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter as well as additional airbags, a child surveillance mirror and three retractable rear head restraints. The range-topping Exclusive model offers premium levels of design and comfort with additional equipment such as dual-zone automatic air conditioning, rear parking sensors, automatic rain-sensitive windscreen wipers, a completely flat folding front passenger seat, ski flap, dark tinted windows and smart leather and chrome touches throughout the interior.
Citroën MPVs are renowned for their light and airy cabin environments and this new model is no exception. The expansive use of glass, which is almost continuously wrapped around the car – as well as over it with the optional 1.2m panoramic roof – hints at the bright and spacious environment of the car’s cabin, as well as the excellent all-round visibility. Stepping inside, occupants are greeted by a light and airy interior with an immediate perception of quality and comfort, courtesy of the soft dashboard surface materials, thoughtfully considered decors and layout of the graining. The slim design of the front seats not only increases cabin room but the pronounced and inviting contours also offer excellent support and comfort.
Thanks to the car’s vertical rear the C3 Picasso’s huge boot is the biggest in its segment with a record-breaking 500-litre VDA aperture with all five seats in place and 1506-litres with the rear bench folded completely flat. Magnetic flaps, fitted in the backs of the rear seats, fold out to extend the flat surface between the bench and the boot floor – a simple but intelligent design feature.
Providing reassuring support in difficult driving situations, the C3 Picasso boasts high-level active safety with exceptionally surefooted road manners and a high-performance braking system. All models feature ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Braking Assistance (EBA) and there is also an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) available with an ASR traction control system, ensuring surer stability around corners and improved control in reduced-grip conditions. Appealing to young families and older, active individuals, the C3 Picasso is an attractive package, combining stylish and bold good looks, a pleasurable driving experience, unrivalled space, adaptable storage options and value for money.
