Citroen C4 Picasso: A superb family car

Citroen C4 Picasso dashboard and storage

The dashboard’s overall layout is clean, smart and highly practical. Two upward-opening storage compartments sit on either side of the instrument panel; on the passenger side, the space is largely occupied by the CD changer where this is fitted.

A large, centrally positioned refrigerated compartment opens downwards and can take either a 1.5-litre bottle of water or three smaller bottles. It is available only with the semi-automatic gearbox, which also creates a considerable amount of extra floor space between the front seats. The cabin therefore feels remarkably roomy.

There is a generously sized glovebox as well as broad, spacious door pockets. These compartments illuminate automatically when you reach inside. The optional lighting pack also provides strips of light across the headlining behind the sun visors, along the doors and inside the door-handle recesses, together with footwell lighting and downward-facing puddle lamps in the substantial door mirrors.

The interior’s lighting scheme is exceptionally stylish and inviting. By now, the message should be clear: this cabin is a work of art.

Seating and passenger comfort

The front seats are exceptionally comfortable: soft, broad and supportive, with cushioned armrests and sizeable head restraints. Indeed, all seven seats have head restraints. The centre row comprises three identically wide seats, so children need not argue over avoiding an uncomfortable middle position. They tip forward easily and slide on rails, creating a wide passage to the third row.

Passengers in the rearmost seats benefit from a good sideways view through the large rear windows, while headroom and legroom are reasonable. Isofix child-seat mounting points are fitted to all three centre-row seats and to the front passenger seat.

Raising or lowering the third row is straightforward and takes only moments: simply pull a strap. With those seats folded away, the floor is completely flat and reveals a vast boot. Nearly all the seats fold almost flat, producing a huge cargo area large enough to intimidate the average Transit van.

The second-row seats slide backwards and forwards on runners, allowing extra legroom for third-row occupants, and can also be reclined to a position suited to sleeping.

Citroen C4 Picasso equipment and practicality

There is plenty more to mention. The four-zone air-conditioning system gives both outer passengers in the centre row their own fan controls, alongside highly effective vents set into the B-pillars.

Aircraft-style folding tables are mounted on the backs of the front seats. They include cup holders and, on certain versions, special reading lights. Sunblinds are fitted to every rear side window and the rear windscreen.

In the boot, the lamp doubles as a detachable torch that recharges when returned to its holder. Large storage recesses are positioned behind the third-row seats when they are in use. The rear hatch glass also opens independently, improving access to the load area in confined spaces, while a button in the boot lowers the rear air suspension to reduce the loading height.

Orders are now being accepted for the C4 Picasso, which will go on sale in the UK early next year. Available in LX, SX and Exclusive trims, it will cost between £15k and £20k.

It is a superb car and perhaps the finest in its class - Touran, C-Max et al should be worried. And, knowing Citroen, it is likely to arrive with an offer. Did I mention that it is enjoyable to drive as well? I thought so.