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10/07/2008 11:52 AM - (SA) Pablo would have been impressed 110708
The Citroen Picasso has been with us for some time but the latest version has certainly placed it in a higher sector than previously, the HDi boasts a very high specification level with just about every creature comfort imaginable. The styling of the C4 Picasso is very distinctive with its flowing lines, also apparent is the incredible area of glass, from the massive raked windscreen to the deep side windows, there's over five square metres of glass, the windscreen alone covering two square metres. The front end features a bumper with large air intakes with black mesh covering, chrome-stripped fog lamps, and the Citroen badging neatly displayed as wide chevrons on the grille that extend out into the chrome surrounds headlamp surrounds. The interior of the Picasso is extremely spacious with a light airy feeling. The drivers seat is fully adjustable as is the steering column having both reach and rake adjustment, rear seating consists of three separate units that are individually adjustable. The luggage area behind the rear seats measures 500 litres under the cover and if more luggage space is required the rear seats can be folded down into the floor without removing the headrests expanding the load area to a huge 1734 litres. On top of the dashboard is a centrally mounted binnacle that houses all the instrumentation and I am glad to say that the digital display unit can be easily read even in bright sunlight. The steering wheel centre hub is fixed and carries controls for cruise control and audio system amongst others. An interesting feature of the vehicle is the automatic electronic handbrake which engages when the vehicle is switched off and releases when the clutch is released. A control on the dash allows the handbrake to be operated manually. Air conditioning controls are placed at either end of the dashboard and with four-zone automatic air conditioning, rear passengers can adjust temperature and flow on each side. The engine is a real surprise, a 1560 cc, 16 valve, developing 80kW and torque of 240 Nm at 1750 rpm, that torque can be over boosted for short periods to 260Nm. It doesn?t sound like a lot of power but it translates well through its five speed transmission to a very tractable vehicle. On the road the C4 Picasso HDi is a real pleasure to drive, the smooth delivery of the engine and smooth gearbox with well matched ratios lets you really enjoy the ride. Fuel economy is claimed at 5.9 l/100 kms on a combined cycle and it certainly delivered that. Comfort levels are very high and seating is almost akin to that Gallic armchair ride that we knew on many earlier French models. Handling is surprisingly stable and sure?footed allowing you to drive with a level of confidence not often inspired in an MPV of this size. My only real complaint is the lack of rear park distance sensors as rear vision when reversing is a little limited. Overall the Citroen C4 Picasso 1.6 HDi is the type of vehicle that I wished for when I had to move the relatives all those years ago, it offers lots of space a relaxed driving experience with power and economy to match. Priced at R249 995 including a three year/100 000km warranty, a four year/ 75 000km service plan and a one year roadside assistance package.
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