Citroën’s new seven seat MPV promises extra equipment, super fuel economy and a stylish exterior, we take a test drive in the new Grand C4 Picasso writes Geraldine Herbert
What is it? Citroën have long offered MPVs that blend practicality with French flair and their latest five seat Picasso has won a host of coveted awards including Irish Car of the Year 2014. A new seven seat Grand version now joins the range.
First impressions of the new Grand Citroën C4 Picasso. We love the smart and sharp styling of the latest range of Citroëns and the Grand Citroën C4 Picasso does not disappoint. The five seat version is a very stylish car and somehow Citroën have managed to add two extra seats and yet create an even sleeker version with this large Grand C4 Picasso.
What about the interior? Inside the Grand Picasso is refreshingly different and the avant garde exterior styling continues inside. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered thanks to a 12-inch widescreen display and the 7-inch touch screen carried over from the five seat version. There is lots of passenger space, plenty of clever storage and the glass roof only adds to the light and airy feel throughout. Families will love features such as the child-minding second mirror, the trays on the back seats and the under-floor storage.
And behind the wheel? At the launch we had a chance to sample the two-litre BlueHDi engine.
Grand Citroën C4 Picasso in the city: Given its size the Grand Picasso is particularly good to drive and handles well. The steering is light and direct and makes parking and reversing simple.
Grand Citroën C4 Picasso on the motorway: On the open road the Picasso is extremely refined and there is little or no engine noise. It soaks up the bumps and feels solid and it reassuringly composed with virtually no body roll.
How Much? Priced between €26,795 and €39,395, the e-HDi 115 Manual version at €29,295 is likely to be the most popular with buyers.
How Safe? The Grand C4 Picasso is packed with safety equipment and was awarded a five-star EuroNCAP rating with an impressive 88% score in the Child Occupant category.
What about my options: There is a choice of three diesel engines ranging from a 1.6 to 2.0-litre in four trims: VTR, VTR+, Exclusive and Exclusive+. A manual or automatic gearbox is also available. Other options include 360 vision, a feature that uses four cameras around the car to get a good view of what is going on and a park assist system that provides automatic assistance when manoeuvring into a space, whether in reverse or at an angle. All the driver has to do is manage acceleration and braking.
3 words to describe the Grand Citroën C4 Picasso; Chic; Versatile; Economical
For more information check out Citroën.ie or the Citroën Ireland Facebook page
Geraldine Herbert
14th January, 2014
