Priced from £19,200 to £27,855, the new model is virtually the same length as its predecessor but uses the new EMP2 platform (Efficient Modular Platform 2) to enable a longer wheelbase. The result is class-leading cabin space in rows two & three, enhanced access and increased load space.

Of particular interest to fleets – which are expected to make up 75% of sales – will be the model’s reduced CO2 emissions,. With the help of a weight saving of at least 100kg plus enhanced aerodynamics and an optimised engine range, the new model delivers CO2 emissions from 98g/km with a class-leading combined cycle fuel economy of up to 74.3mpg for the e-HDi 90 Airdream ETG6.

Meanwhile, the e-HDi 115 ETG6 emits 104g/km (105g/km for the manual version) with a combined fuel economy of 70.6mpg.

The range also offers the new Euro 6 compliant BlueHDi engine fitted with Citroën’s Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system – which reduces NOx emissions by 90%, whilst also cutting CO2 emissions. The BlueHDi 150 manual unit in Exclusive trim emits 110g/km of CO2 emissions (manual) and 117g/km of CO2 for the automatic version.

All diesel-powered New Grand C4 Picasso models are fitted with Stop & Start technology, as standard. 

The new model’s performance is further refined with the new 6-speed clutchless manual gearbox – ETG6 (6-speed Efficient Tronic Gearbox) – which is available with e-HDi 90 and e-HDi 115 versions and enables drivers to switch from manual to automatic mode at any time.

The new Grand C4 Picasso also offers improved driveability thanks to the reduced weight, lower centre of gravity and enhanced design. 

Inside, there’s a standard specification 7-inch touchpad, with seven touch-sensitive buttons around the outside, which puts all the in-car functions such as dual-zone air conditioning, navigation, audio, telephone and driving aids, within easy reach.

There’s also a 12-inch panoramic HD screen that can be configured to display essential driving information and can show data for either the navigation system or other driving aids, such as the active cruise control.

Alongside functions such as keyless entry and start, reversing camera and electric tailgate, the latest Grand C4 Picasso also features new innovations such as the 360° VISION, which uses four cameras to give the driver a bird’s eye view, rear view or panoramic front view through the integrated 12-inch screen. There’s also the PARK ASSIST system, which provides automatic assistance when manoeuvring into a tight space, whether parallel parking or reversing straight back. All the driver has to do is manage acceleration and braking.

In addition, safety features include a radar-guided active cruise control fitted in the front bumper, which maintains a constant distance to the vehicle in front and uses acceleration or engine braking to reduce or increase vehicle speed. There’s also an anti-collision warning system that also uses the front radar to alert the driver when their vehicle is too close to the vehicle in front plus a video lane departure warning system (LDWS) that vibrates the driver’s seatbelt if the car drifts out of a lane without indicating.

Now on sale in the UK, the new model is available in four trim levels – VTR, VTR+, Exclusive & Exclusive+. Prices are £1,700 higher than an equivalent five-seat New C4 Picasso and start at £19,200 for the VTi 120 manual VTR, rising to £27,855 for the BlueHDi 150 automatic Exclusive+.