2009 Citroen C3 Picasso
By Ian Lynas, 02nd April 2009
Citroen possess the MPV art; with no less than 10 models to choose from and the latest to join the range is the C3 Picasso; little wonder that 50 per cent of UK sales go to the MPVs.
In this, the 90th year of the French company, the C3 Picasso was launched on the birthday of Andre Citroen and it is every inch a Citroen, a mix of practicality and funky styling, a vehicle just right for the lean economic times we all find ourselves in.
When the Citroen designers were working on this latest small MPV, they had five targets; space, ease of use, visibility, safety and looks. Might seem like a tall order, but largely they achieved their goals.
For example the C3 Picasso at only five inches longer than the new Ford Fiesta is a class leader in terms of space. Quite remarkable from such neat exterior dimensions they have managed to create maximum interior space. Fold the rear seats flat and the C3 Picasso can cope with 1,506 litres and there are numerous other storage spaces.
Already, this newcomer has gained the nickname of ‘spacebox’.
Included are hidden storage spaces, just the job to place valuables in to keep away from prying eyes; this is a taster of just how much thought was involved in creating this new Citroen.
With one of the largest glazed areas in the segment the C3 Picasso‘s cabin is a bright and spacious environment and has a premium feel. The innovative three-part panoramic windscreen featuring a slim A-pillar design means drivers receive a commanding, clear view of the road and a class-leading side vision angle of 29.5°. A panoramic glass roof is also available for a light flooded cabin.
There are three trim levels to satisfy the needs of most, VT, meets all the needs of a family friendly MPV. At the heart of the range, the VTR+ trim level, offers some added extras such as air conditioning and alloy wheels. And the top end of the range, Exclusive trim level, is brimming with luxury touches and unique practical features such as a completely flat folding front passenger seat, and a removable boot light torch.
Powering the new Citroen, a choice of two petrol engines, co-developed with BMW, the VTi 95 and VTi 120 and two HDi diesels, the HDi 90 and HDi 110 DPFS, renowned for their efficiency, exceptional refinement and low CO2 emissions.
The two petrol engines combine efficient economy with responsive performance and lowered CO2 emissions; the VTi 120 already complies with future Euro V pollution standards and emits just 159g/km of CO2.
Both diesel engines are from Citroën‘s impressive HDi line up boasting near 60mpg fuel economy and low combined-cycle CO2 emissions of just 125g/km and 130g/km respectively. The HDi 110 also features an over boost function that increases turbo pressure when an extra burst of power is needed. Mated to the eager power units, a five speed manual transmission.
No sacrifice on equipment, the entry-level VT model features 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.
The VTR+ trim gains smart 16 inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter as well as additional airbags, a child surveillance mirror and three retractable rear head restraints.
While the range-topping Exclusive 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. There are several options available.
Now to prices, from £11,495 to £15,595 and insurance groupings range from 3E to 5E.
A very attractive package from Citroen, a vehicle with eye-catching style, just that bit different from the competition, after all it is a Citroen.
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