Citroen's new C4 Cactus coming here in the autumn might make a serious change in how compact family car buyers look at their options, writes Brian Byrne.
It's not being served up as a crossover, a compact SUV, an MPV, or any of the other niche elements in an increasingly complex automotive world.
Nor is it an estate variant of anything else, but essentially a new hatchback in the segment occupied by Citroen's C4. The distinctive 'Airbumps' on the door panels are designed to be both decorative and protecting.
Power units include 1.2 petrol units in 82/110hp versions with CO2 emissions of 104/107g/km respectively, and a 1.6 diesel with 100hp and emissions as low as 82g/km.
The interior design includes the 7" touchscreen system which we have seen in the new C4 Picasso. Details like panoramic glass roofs are available.
There has been a strong emphasis of reducing weight, with aluminium bonnets, and optimisation of all components including such fittings as the seat frames. The Cactus is 200kg lighter than the C4 hatch.
The international launch is in Amsterdam, reflecting the Dutch ancestry of the brand's founder, Andre Citroen.
No pricing is yet available for Ireland.
