GRAND C4 PICASSO - A PRACTICAL AND SPACIOUS MPV

The revised Citroen Grand C4 Picasso proves that owning a large MPV needn't mean forgoing a certain element of style. Jonathan Crouch reports.

Ten Second Review

The Citroen Grand C4 Picasso offers sharp styling that does a good job in disguising the fact that, like all seven-seat MPVs, you're basically buying a big box. With economical BlueHDi engines, great safety provision and lots of glass, the Grand C4 Picasso feels several notches above the class average, especially since the introduction of this updated version that features smarter stylng, extra technology and some efficient new petrol powerplants.

Background

Buying a seven-seat MPV is usually an exercise in sacrifice. You accept the fact that in return for three seating rows, you'll get something boxy, boring and bland. Or will you? With this improved second generation Grand C4 Picasso model, Citroen beg to differ on that score.

The Picasso name has been synonymous with Citroen People Carriers since the turn of the century and with 7-seat MPVs since the first generation Grand C4 Picasso model was launched in 2006. That car tapped into the major growth area in this segment amongst buyers who really only needed five seats but wanted the occasional versatility of a couple of extra fold-out chairs in the boot. This one makes that arrangement more usable, thanks to extra interior space released without the extra vehicle length buyers in this sector don't want.

Driving Experience

The major change when this second generation model was first launched in 2013 was the adoption of a more modern EMP2 chassis that made the car lighter and stiffer. The engine choice is naturally weighted towards diesels because that's what Citroen does very well and it's also what British customers expect to buy. The 1.6-litre BlueHDi 120 will continue to be the big seller, but the economical BlueHDi 100 powerplant is sure to claim more than a few sales. There's also a pokier BlueHDi 150 diesel option too. Petrol customers get a freshly-added PureTech 110 entry-level unit with manual transmission; or there's a pokier PureTech 130 powerplant, mated with the brand's smoother EAT6 auto transmission.

Design and Build

The revised models keep the previous version's three-tiered light signature at the front, which is synonymous with Citroen's contemporary design language. The grille though, which is separated into two parts by the body-coloured bumper, has been updated and now sports a glossy black registration plate mount and a second air intake. Plus there are smarter 3D-effect rear lights, classier 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and the option of a silver coloured roof bar option.

Those middle row seats can be slid back and forth, reclined or folded flat independently of one another. What's more, the floor is devoid of a raised tunnel, aiding utility still further. The side windows do angle in fairly sharply which can make taller rear seat passengers feel a little pinched - and the rearmost pews are really only suitable for kids. Other than that it's hard to find fault. Materials quality in the cabin is smart, with classy metal finishes and simple yet effective ergonomics, something we have rarely been able to say of previous Citroens.

Market and Model

The Grand C4 Picasso prices are still reasonable, with an entry-level model costing from around £22,000 and the BlueHDi 100 diesel setting you back from just under £22,500. It's fairly easy to see why customers would pay a small premium for the C4 Picasso though.

New media developments include a Citroen Connect radio that includes Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink smartphone connectivity. And a 'Citroen Connect Nav' system with connected services that can tell you everything from weather forecasts to local parking and fuel station info. These functions, like many others in the cabin, are marshalled by the big touch screen display.

Even entry-level Grand C4 Picassos are fitted as standard with alloy wheels, Bluetooth and a six-speaker stereo with a USB socket. Range-topping models get features such as adaptive cruise control and the rather lovely lounge-style front passenger seats.

Cost of Ownership

It's virtually impossible to compete in this sector without some standout economy and emissions figures and the Grand C4 Picasso steps up to the plate in this regard. Although some of the power outputs at first look a little underwhelming for such a big vehicle, the diesels develop such torque that you won't need to thrash the engines to make respectable progress. Even the entry-level BlueHDi 100PS unit pulls its weight, emitting just 99g/km with a combined fuel consumption of under 75mpg.

Step up to the BlueHDi 120 model and the CO2 number is 105g/km, with a combined fuel economy return of over 70mpg. The BlueHDi 150 manual unit gets 102g/km of CO2 emissions, rising to 112g/km for the 6-speed auto model. Citroen is also keen that we should talk about the petrol engines added to the line-up. The PureTech 130 EAT auto variant manages 55.4mpg and 115g/km. What else? Well maintenance costs will be aided by the option of an affordable three year servicing plan. Plus there are reasonable insurance groupings rand the usual three year / 60,000 mile warranty.

Summary

So, if you want a compact seven-seat MPV, look at the bigger Pic. Is it that simple? Well it depends upon your priorities I suppose. Most in search of a modern People Carrier prioritise practicality, running costs and clever design. If, as here, they can have all of this with class-leading style and technology thrown in, then so much the better.

This Grand C4 Picasso offers perfect proof, if you ever doubted it, that an MPV can do more than just provide comfortable, efficient transport. It can be. well, what Citroens once were: clever, futuristic, expressively designed. Cars you'd be genuinely proud to own.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

CAR: Citroen Grand C4 Picasso

PRICES: £21,935-£29,360 - on the road

INSURANCE GROUP: TBC

CO2 EMISSIONS: 989-116g/km

PERFORMANCE: [BlueHDi 100] 0-62mph 12.7s / 109mph top speed

FUEL CONSUMPTION: [BlueHDi 100] 74.3mpg (combined)

STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: ABS with EBD, ESP, 7 airbags, 3-point seat belts.

WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: length/Width/Height 4602/1826/1638mm

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