Citroen reveals new seven-seat MPV

What's the news?
Citroen's controversially styled C4 Picasso has had some extra bodywork and another row of seats added to become this: the Grand C4 Picasso. A versatile cabin, record-low fuel emissions and plenty of equipment are among the features of the new model.

Exterior
The front of the Grand C4 Picasso has been lifted straight from the regular-sized C4 Picasso; although the extra length does improve the looks over the standard five-seat variant to our eyes. Up front, the two chevrons lead towards the model's LED daytime running lights, while the rear features 3D effect light clusters. Every model also comes with alloy wheels ranging from 16 to 18 inches in diameter.

Interior
To make the interior, Citroen claims to have created a loft-style atmosphere by fitting a panoramic windscreen as standard and making a glass-roof an optional extra. Containing the most glass in its segment, the Grand C4 Picasso is even said to feel open and airy at night thanks to white-LED ambient lighting. As well as the feeling of space, other noticeable assets include the two touchscreens on the dashboard. The smaller seven-inch number houses all the controls for the car's major sub-systems, such as the dual-zone air conditioning and satellite navigation; while the larger 12-inch HD screen displays all essential driver information.

Other unique features include dedicated air vents for third-row passengers, the largest and most accessible second and third rows in the segment and the widest load-bay in its class. Buyers can also specify the Lounge Pack that includes a first-class style travelling experience for the front seat passenger. Obviously much of this paragraph paraphrases the press release...

Mechanicals
New diesel engines feature in the Grand C4 Picasso; as does a new ETG6 (six-speed Efficient Tronic Gearbox). When combined with the ETG6, the entry-level e-HDi 90 Airdream engine emits just 98g/km of CO₂ and achieves 74.3mpg. For those needing slightly more power, the e-HDi 115 engine will still manage an impressive 70.6mpg; while the BlueHDi 150 emits 117g/km of CO₂.

As well as efficient engines, the Grand C4 Picasso is full of clever safety gadgets. An anti-collision warning system and ultrasonic blind-spot monitoring help to avoid accidents, while active front seatbelts and Citroen's e-Touch system work together if an accident does occur. To prevent low speed collisions, 360 Vision has been fitted to give drivers a bird's-eye view of the car, while Park Assist will get the Grand C4 Picasso into tight parking spots.

Anything else?
Citroen has yet to reveal prices or specifications for the Grand C4 Picasso, but expect to see it on the road before the end of the year.

Read our first drive of the five-seat Citroen C4 Picasso here.