The Citroen Grand C4 Picasso offers sharp styling that does a good job in disguising the fact that, like all seven-seat MPVs, you’re basically buying a big box. With economical BlueHDi engines, great safety provision and lots of glass, the Grand C4 Picasso feels several notches above the class average, especially since the introduction of this updated version that features smarter stylng, extra technology and some efficient new petrol powerplants.

The major change when this second generation model was first launched in 2013 was the adoption of a more modern EMP2 chassis that made the car lighter and stiffer. The engine choice is naturally weighted towards diesels because that’s what Citroen does very well and it’s also what British customers expect to buy. The 1.6-litre BlueHDi 120 will continue to be the big seller, but the economical BlueHDi 100 powerplant is sure to claim more than a few sales. There’s also a pokier BlueHDi 150 diesel option too. Petrol customers get a freshly-added PureTech 110 entry-level unit with manual transmission; or there’s a pokier PureTech 130 powerplant, mated with the brand’s smoother EAT6 auto transmission.

On to design. The revised models keep the previous version’s three-tiered light signature at the front, which is synonymous with Citroen’s contemporary design language. The grille though, which is separated into two parts by the body-coloured bumper, has been updated and now sports a glossy black registration plate mount and a second air intake. Plus there are smarter 3D-effect rear lights, classier 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and the option of a silver coloured roof bar option.

Those middle row seats can be slid back and forth, reclined or folded flat independently of one another. What’s more, the floor is devoid of a raised tunnel, aiding utility still further. Materials quality in the cabin is smart, with classy metal finishes and simple yet effective ergonomics.

In summary, this Grand C4 Picasso offers perfect proof, if you ever doubted it, that an MPV can do more than just provide comfortable, efficient transport. It can be. well, what Citroens once were: clever, futuristic, expressively designed. Cars you’d be genuinely proud to own.

  • CAR: Citroen Grand C4 Picasso
  • PRICES: £21,935-£29,360 - on the road
  • INSURANCE GROUP: TBC
  • CO2 EMISSIONS: 989-116g/km
  • PERFORMANCE: [BlueHDi 100] 0-62mph 12.7s / 109mph top speed
  • FUEL CONSUMPTION: [BlueHDi 100] 74.3mpg (combined)
  • STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: ABS with EBD, ESP, 7 airbags, 3-point seat belts.
  • WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: length/Width/Height 4602/1826/1638mm