The new generation Citroen C4 Picasso has been launched in Ireland at a starting price of €24,495, writes Brian Byrne
The Picasso nameplate has been around since 1999 and has sold over 5,300 units in Ireland since that time. The latest generation is on the new EMP2 platform which will underpin a range of new cars from the PSA Group in coming years.
It has five full-size adult seats and can accommodate three child seats in the second row if necessary. The 537L boot capacity is the leader in the segment. It increase to 1851L with all three seats folded.
A high driving position and an uncluttered footwell makes easy access for the driver. The panoramic windscreen is standard on all grades and is individually adjustable to the taste of each front seat occupant.
It's shorter and lower than the previous car, but without compromising on interior space, making it a very usable car in tight spaces.
The LED running lights are standard across the range.
The visiual effects of the rear side windows has the effect of making the car look smaller than it is.
Bluetooth is also standard, as is cruise control. The Touch-Drive interface controls all the vehicle's functions, including the heating and ventilation.
There's a larger screen available in higher levels, which has additional functionality, including scrolling through favourite pictures.
The vehicle is 140kg lighter than the outgoing model, and CO2 across the range is an average of 30g/km less than before. There's a 98g/km version which offers the equivalent of 74mpg.
The new 6-speed automated gearbox is smoother to use at low speeds thanks to improved software.
Advanced safety systems are available, including active cruise control, and lane departure warnings. A 5-star ENCAP rating has been achieved.
There are four levels of trim. The top price is €35,095.
(We'll have a first drive impression later today.)
