When Citroën launched the Xsara Picasso in 2000 the Compact MPV sector was in its infancy, now MPVs’ represent a remarkable one in ten of all cars sold in the UK. However, the massive recent growth in this market has principally been down to the rise of the Compact MPV, with sales exploding from zero to well over 200,000 in the space of a decade. There are two versions of the C4 Picasso a five-seat version and a larger seven-seat version both versatile and well suited to family life. Here we review the C4 1.6HDi 110hp EGS VTR+ this is the seven-seat version.With its sleek exterior lines, huge glazed area and uncluttered interior the new C4 Picasso sees Citroën stretching the boundaries of design once again. Looking at the C4 Picasso, the eyes are immediately drawn to the abundance of glass wrapped around the vehicle. This is most noticeable at the front, where the windscreen stretches back over the driver’s head, but equally extends to the large side windows. The result is that the cabin is extraordinarily light – especially welcome on overcast days – when it helps brighten the interior. Visibility is excellent and there are extra large sunblinds that pull down for extra shade.
The designers have worked hard to create an uncluttered look and feel in the front of the car. Take, for example, the steering wheel, only the rim moves, the boss remains stationary. That means all the function buttons it contains are in a fixed position, which is handy, as there are up to four discrete clusters: audio controls, cruise control and speed limiter and multi-function display controls. In common with a few other cars, the digital speedo is contained within a centrally mounted translucent display, which also includes a fuel gauge, water temperature gauge, odometer, speed-limiter settings, and so on. Nothing new there, except there is: the translucent display is light-sensitive, which means that it is always sharply legible, regardless of light conditions.
The new C4 Picasso is available with a choice of four proven engines - two petrol and two diesel and two transmissions, depending on model a 5-speed manual gearbox or a hi-tech 6-speed electronic gearbox system.
The C4 offers a driving experience to match any of its mainstream rivals. Safe, sure-footed and responsive, it carries the Citroen name forward with distinction.
