Second-Hand Citroen Xsara Picasso
Used Citroen Xsara Picasso
2001's best-selling mini MPV was the Citroen Xsara Picasso, priced to sell and outclassing rivals in terms of clever design features, fuel economy and interior space. Based on the tried and tested Xsara in order to keep development costs low, the Picasso remains largely unaltered since its 2000 launch. Both petrol and diesel engines are available, with two trim levels of LX and SX, plus an Exclusive edition from 2002 with extras including posh alloys, digital air conditioning and body-coloured bumpers.
What You Get
The used Citroen Xsara Picasso is a prime example of research paying off, with Citroen aiming this well-thought-out vehicle at a very specific market – five seats for families with no more than three children, sensible engines for sensible driving and a whole host of original interior features. The dash is plain to the point of austere, with dials and gauges replaced by a centrally placed, simple but comprehensive digital display and the floor is unobstructed by a dashboard-mounted gear stick for clear access to rear seats. The gentle, rounded but modern looking exterior belies the amount of interior space, with five full-size seats comfortable enough for five adults. The rear seats can be fully removed as well as folded down, and the centre rear seat collapses. Standard features include front and side airbags, ABS, remote control central locking, immobiliser and electric front windows and mirrors, while the plusher SX also offers air conditioning, front fog lights and a CD player.
How it Drives
The Citroen Xsara Picasso does what it says on the tin. Engines are satisfactory in performance and exemplary in fuel economy. What it lacks in horsepower it makes up for in torque, while corner roll is well balanced against ride comfort. For this class of car, it's an unusually pleasant drive and an excellent used buy.