Road Test: Citroën C4 Picasso Intensive

The Citroën C4 Picasso is the latest multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) from the French manufacturer that’s known for its practical, economic and avant-garde offerings.

The C4 Picasso’s styling is eye-catching to say the least and looks as though it could easily have been a concept car that rolled off a motorshow stand and onto the road. Citroën describe the design language as “pacesetting”, which is apt considering how they’ve managed to set their ‘Mom’s Taxi’ apart with a road-hugging stance, wide tracks and futuristic-looking face.

Chiefly responsible for the pioneering character of the new Picasso is the front-end design which incorporates a new, slimmed down grille with trademark Citroën chevrons. In addition, the lights have been separated into three distinct groups in the form of slim, LED daytime running lights positioned above very slender headlights. Fog lamps add the finishing touch to the layout, which is reminiscent of the Fiat Multipla, although incomparably better looking and contemporary in a way the Multipla could only have dreamt of.

The 3D styling effect for the LED lights at the rear was inspired by the rear light treatment of the recent Tubik, Survolt and Revolte concept cars, and also given to the Citroën DS3 last year. The C4 Picasso is available in two levels of trim, which can be outwardly identified by either 16-inch ‘Viper’ design alloy wheels fitted to the Seduction model, or 17-inch ‘Anaconda’ alloys on the Intensive specification.

As with the styling of the exterior that holds attention for its unique features, so too does the interior with a comprehensive list of functionality, convenience and luxury equipment.

The overall design of the cabin imparts space and light, with large windows and a windscreen that begins way ahead of the dashboard and arcs overhead to meet the panoramic sunroof. The dashboard incorporates a central instrumentation layout, which shirks convention and may not be to everyone’s liking, but the Intensive variant boasts a 12-inch HD screen that proved clear and easy to read.

A 7-inch touch-screen is housed in the centre console and allows control of the infotainment, vehicle and ventilation systems. By so doing, Citroen has done away with the need for many individual buttons and dials, adding further emphasis to the spacious feeling of the interior. A multi-function steering wheel also allows control of the audio system and adaptive cruise control.

In addition to the large LCD and touch-screen technology, further highlights include: satellite navigation; USB and Bluetooth connectivity with media streaming; front park assist sensors and a Park Assist system that automates the parallel parking process; front fog lamps with cornering function; kerb lighting; mood lighting; remote operate tailgate; massaging and heated front seats. Some not-so-common, but entirely practical, convenience items include a removable and rechargeable boot light/torch, foldable tray tables located behind the front seats that provide a convenient surface for rear passengers, retractable rear side window blinds and a rear seat conversation mirror (to keep an eye on the little ones).

There are five individual seats in total, with the three seats in the second row offering the convenience of allowing the rake of the backrest to be adjusted. With the second row folded flat, the cargo capacity grows from an already generous 537-litres to 1 851-litres. In addition, plenty of storage spaces are dotted around the cabin, including two beneath the floor of the second row of seats, a deep storage bin located between the front seats, as well as a mini cubby-hole in the centre console.

The bundle of practicality that is the C4 Picasso, is powered by a e-HDi 115 turbocharged diesel engine, which develops 85 kW of power and 270 Nm of torque. Power goes to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission. The engine is smooth and responds well to throttle input throughout the rev range with negligible turbo-lag. The manual transmission lever doesn’t impart much sense of connection with the transmission, but despite its vague character, I never missed a gear.

The performance numbers are as good as necessary for an MPV, with a top speed of 189 km/h and the zero to 100 km/h sprint taking 11.8 seconds. The diesel engine’s forte is economy, however, with a claimed average consumption of just 4.0 l/100km and equivalent CO2 emissions of 105 g/km. Without trying to specifically match Citroen’s claimed figure, but instead throwing the Picasso into the daily commute, shopping runs and a couple of extra-urban journey’s, the average consumption indicated 5.3 l/100km without much thought involved.

Despite its solid-looking appearance, the C4 Picasso is no heffalump and has shed 140 kg over its predecessor to weigh-in at a 1 298 kg. The reduction has been achieved through a lighter chassis construction, as well as an aluminium bonnet and composite rear hatch. The result is a controlled, well damped ride quality and quick steering response, if a little devoid of feel, but which all add up to a pleasant and relax driving experience. The brakes performed well too, with pedal travel in proportion to the applied pressure, resulting in effective and confident braking.

As one would expect from Citroën there is a vast array of standard safety and security equipment, including ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), emergency braking assistance (EBA), electronic stability control (ESC) with intelligent traction control; automatic activation of the hazard warning lights in case of rapid deceleration or impact, six air bags and a deflated tyre indicator.

The C4 Picasso’s new platform offers an appreciable leap in refinement and efficiency, making for a comfortable and efficient drive. Paired with unique styling and an extensive list of features, both in terms of technology and practicality, the C4 Picasso should be a strong contender within the MPV segment. Further more, the Citroën C4 Picasso comes with a 3-year/100 000km warranty, 5-year/100 000km service plan, and 3-year 24-hour roadside assistance.

What we like…

• Unique styling.
• Comfortable, spacious and feature-rich interior.
• Ride quality and fuel economy.

What we would like…

• The option of an automatic transmission.
• Faster access to the camera screens when preparing to park.

Comments

comments