Road test - Citroen C3 Picasso

Author: Ian Strachan

There’s something about Citroens which is unmistakably French. Slightly quirky looking, and idiosyncratic, with lots of little touches – largely good – which are just….well, different in a Gallic sort of way.

Take the Citroen C3 Picasso for example. There's no doubt that this is a good looking MPV. It's sleek and distinctive from the side, but slightly pug-nosed at the front, with a very squared off back end. That said, the box-like rear does give it a very spacious interior. It's also packed full of good ideas.

I test drove the 1.6 diesel powered Picasso in VTR+ specification. The 90 horsepower direct injection engine is willing, smooth and fairly quiet. 

I never seem to get on with Citroen gearboxes and this is no exception. The five-speed manual box feels sloppy and imprecise - more like stirring a rice pudding than changing gear.

But once you're in gear the engine pulls effortlessly, with good ratios that mean the car never feels out of breath.

Styling of the C3 Picasso is attractive, and the whole car has personality. It's pleasant to look at and pleasant to be inside.

The interior of the C3 is bright and airy, helped by a panoramic front screen and large glass area which create a pleasant environment and great field of vision. 

The seats are more comfortable and supportive than most cars in this class.  The centrally mounted facia is deliberately simple, with a clear digital speedometer and easy to reach controls. 

Storage space is generous, with a large facia top compartment, space between the seats and big door bins. Leg and headroom is excellent and boot space is very generous - among the best in its class. There's more storage space under the boot floor, and folding and sliding seats can be moved around to create even more space.

There are other clever touches around this Citroen. Like a mirror to keep an eye on troublesome back seat passengers.  

Fuel economy is superb, returning an impressive 62.8 miles to the gallon in mixed driving. You also get the advantage of £35 a year road tax.

On the road, the C3 handles extremely well. The power assisted steering is sensibly variable - always giving you good contact with the road. Cornering is positive and effortless with no roll, despite this being a high car. Pneumatic rear suspension absorbs bumps well. This car's suspension feels a little harder than you'd expect from a Citroen but it's still very comfortable.

Remote central locking with immobiliser, MP3/CD player, 16 inch alloys, electric front windows, scented air freshener, trip computer, air conditioning and electric, heated door mirrors are all standard.

This is a good package - stylish and roomy - and well worth the £13,995 on the road price.