Citroen C3 Picasso

Styling/Image
If you want to stand out from the crowd, then the C3 Picasso could be the car for you. The faired-in nose features large wraparound headlamps, while the rest of the shape is an eye-catching mix of straight lines and bold curves. Entry-level VT models feature basic steel wheels, while VTR+ adds alloy wheels and flashes of chrome trim. Go for the range-topping Exclusive and you’ll also get neat roof rails and darkened privacy glass for the rear windows. All models benefit from the novel panoramic windscreen that stretches over the heads of the driver and front seat passenger.

Interior/Practicality
Few cars of any size can match the Picasso for versatility. Thanks to its boxy and upright exterior the French car is able to make the most of its supermini dimensions when it comes to cabin space. Occupants get plenty of leg and headroom, and opening the tailgate reveals a remarkable 500-litre load bay. Look around the interior and you’ll find bags of storage, while range-topping Exclusive models benefit from a fold flat front passenger seat. It’s stylish and solidly screwed together too, with an attractive dashboard that features a neat centrally mounted digital instrument pack and classy aluminium trimmed air vents.

Engines/Performance
Buyers have a fairly limited choice of powerplants in the C3. Petrol fans can pick either the underpowered 93bhp 1.4-litre VTi or a punchy 118bhp 1.6-litre unit. However, we’d recommend the sticking to the 1.6-litre HDi diesel, which is available with either 88bhp or 108bhp. Both versions are smooth, torquey and should deliver around 58mpg at the pumps. All models get the same five-speed manual gearbox and, for the moment, there is no automatic transmission option.

Driving experience
The most striking aspect of the Picasso driving experience is the excellent refinement. Wind, road and engine noise are effectively suppressed giving the Citroen a big car feel, particularly at motorway speeds. This impression is bolstered by the supple and composed ride, which soaks up even big bumps and potholes. On the other hand, the soft suspension set-up means the C3 suffers from body roll in the bends. Over-assisted steering delivers little in the way of feedback and the handling is safe and predictable rather than involving.

Ownership costs
Like other models in the Citroen line-up, the Picasso represents decent value for money. Entry-level models lack standard kit, with air-conditioning an extra cost option. All models have average residuals and even the diesel models fail to retain more than 40 percent of their value after three years. At least the oil-burners should be cost effective return with delivering nearly 60mpg – and with CO2 emissions of up to 130g/km annual road tax should be £120.

Safety/environment
A respectable four-star score in the tough new EuroNCAP tests is proof of the Picasso’s strength. However, entry-level cars only have two airbags as standard, while electronic stability control is an option on everything other than the range-topping Exclusive model. Eco-friendly buyers are best sticking with the diesel-engined versions that emit between 125-130g/km of CO2.

Our Choice: C3 Picasso VTR+ 1.6HDi 90