Citroën C3 'space box' here next month

Citroën's new-generation MPV, the C3 Picasso, is set to arrive in the local showroom next month.

The modular design of the C3 Picasso is intuitive, giving the car the versatility for all lifestyles and requirements. Powered by a range of efficient, economical and low-pollution engines, the C3 Picasso also delivers an agile and lively ride for customers looking for driving thrills.

The French marquee says a more apt description for it would be 'space box'. Produced at the Trnava plant in Slovakia, it is set to follow in the footsteps of the C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso, Europe's best-selling MPVs last year.

Measuring 4,080 mm long, 1,730 mm wide and 1,620 mm tall, it has a short front end and a strictly vertical back. The boot is equally capacious: with 500 litres under the parcel shelf and all five seats in place, it sets a new standard in the segment.

The split-fold rear seats slide independently over 150 mm for the comfort of all passengers, whatever their shape or size. The seats can be folded away with one hand in one simple movement using a control on the upper part of the rear seats.

Load length can be further extended - to over 2,410 mm - by folding the back of the front passenger seat down into desk position.

The driving position offers peripheral vision thanks to the innovative, three-part windscreen with slim pillars and the high-set seating position that gives drivers a commanding view of the road.

Wrapped in a glass envelope, the cabin has a total glazed area of 4.52 m2 with the panoramic roof.

The car's compact dimensions and tight turning circle make it agile and able to dodge obstacles with ease.

The C3 Picasso will be available with two new-generation petrol units - the VTi 95 and VTi 120 - and two diesels, the HDi 90 and HDi 110 DPFS.

CO2 emissions are among the lowest in its category, making the C3 Picasso a vehicle with real respect for the environment. With 16-inch tyres, which will be the case on most versions, the two HDi engines emit 125 and 130 g of CO2 per km. Both engines carry the Airdream eco-label.