Skip advert
Advertisement

Citroen C3 Picasso vs Ford B-MAX

Is the revised Citroen C3 Picasso a master of the MPV art? We find out

The innovative Citroen C3 Picasso is a forgotten star of the supermini-MPV class. A mix of oddball styling and great interior space took it straight to the top of the class when it was launched in 2009. However, a raft of new, more sophisticated rivals has overtaken the small people carrier since then.

Advertisement - Article continues below

To help revive the Picasso’s fortunes, Citroen has refreshed its styling and upgraded the engine line-up. There’s also new upholstery inspired by the company’s luxurious DS models. Factor in great-value pricing, and the C3 could reclaim its place at the top.

Standing in the way is our current class leader, the Ford B-MAX. With its party trick of pillarless sliding doors, it’s one of the most flexible small MPVs, despite its compact size. Better still, Fiesta underpinnings give a superb driving experience, while the smooth diesel engine promises low running costs.

So, which of our distinctive and practical contenders will win this family space race?

Verdict

These two supermini-MPVs seem to cater for very different audiences, but they also have a lot to offer over more fashionable small crossover models. The result of this test was much closer than we expected, even though the cars have different approaches to delivering big practicality in a small package.

The Citroen seems a little dated inside, but the versatile cabin is impressively practical and the revised exterior is distinctive and bold. The car is also easy to drive and, if you can afford the higher tax bills, the 1.6-litre HDi engine offers better performance than the Ford’s diesel. However, the B-MAX’s unique pillarless doors provide unrivalled access to the rear seats, and the Ford feels like a higher-quality product, too.

For small families with child seats, the Ford is a better bet, while the Citroen will suit those with older kids. Still, the B-MAX is cleaner and nicer to drive, and if you don’t cover very high mileage every year, the lighter and faster 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol version is worth looking at.

Modern engine technology and superior safety equipment push the Ford over the finish line in first place here – but the margin of victory is very narrow and the C3 Picasso remains a fine choice for good-value family motoring.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,924 off RRP*Used from £12,227
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £2,911 off RRP*Used from £14,900
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,200Avg. savings £4,560 off RRP*Used from £14,900
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £14,480Avg. savings £1,848 off RRP*Used from £7,250
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Labour hints at major luxury car tax U-turn to boost EV sales
Luxury car tax

Labour hints at major luxury car tax U-turn to boost EV sales

Is pressure from retailers and car makers finally cutting through with ministers?
News
22 May 2025
The Nissan Micra is back! New supermini arrives with EV power and plenty of charm
Nissan Micra - front

The Nissan Micra is back! New supermini arrives with EV power and plenty of charm

The Nissan Micra makes a long-awaited return as an EV and is set to offer up to 253 miles of range
News
21 May 2025
BYD Dolphin Surf review
BYD Dolphin Surf - front

BYD Dolphin Surf review

The BYD Dolphin Surf is a roomy, sophisticated, and competitively priced electric city car that’ll find plenty of willing buyers
In-depth reviews
23 May 2025