With so many good deals on new cars lately, it could work out cheaper and more beneficial in the long run simply to opt for a new car rather than a used one.
One such popular choice for families and older, active individuals, is the Citroen C3 Picasso, which is available with a choice of four five-speed manual engines – two new petrol engines, which have been co-developed with BMW and two well-established HDi diesel units.
Picasso’s cube-like body shape may be offputting at first sight, but its practicalities outweigh any image issues for anyone with kids.
The expansive use of glass, which is almost continuously wrapped around the car – as well as over it with the optional 1.2m panoramic roof – hints at the bright and spacious environment of the car’s cabin, as well as the all-round visibility.
Like its C4 Picasso siblings, the C3 Picasso also features loads of practical storage compartments, so there’s pretty much a convenient home for everything.
There’s a huge boot and magnetic flaps fitted in the backs of the rear seats fold out to extend the flat surface between the bench and the boot floor, which also provides a hidden storage area, ideal for stowing valuable items out of sight.
The short bonnet and vertical rear end make parking easier to judge and there’s parking sensors as well, although this kicks in a bit too early.
Eight body colours are available and, inside, the audio and multimedia system features colour satellite navigation, an MP3/WMA-compatible audio CD player and a Bluetooth hands-free kit. iPods can also be connected.
An interesting feature on the C3 is the removable boot light that doubles as a handheld torch. Other features include dual-zone automatic air conditioning, automatic rain-sensitive windscreen wipers, a completely flat folding front passenger seat, ski flap and dark tinted windows.
The C3 Picasso was awarded four stars in the Euro NCAP rating system.
All models feature ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Emergency Braking Assistance.
Factfile
Car: C3 Picasso 1.6 16V Vti Exclusive
On the road: £14,445
Top speed: 117mph
0-62mph: 10.9 seconds
Insurance group: 5E
CO2 emissions: 159g/km
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