‘SpaceTourer’ replaces ‘Picasso’ for Citroen
CITROEN is to drop the Picasso name from its line of multi-purpose vehicles, simplifying the range and bringing it in line with the larger van-based SpaceTourer.
For the latest facelifted model, the vehicle previously known as the C4 Picasso will now be called the C4 SpaceTourer – or Grand C4 SpaceTourer in seven-seat form.
Citroen says that the name change allows for a cohesive MPV line-up, and highlights that all three vehicles are based on the same basic underpinnings – Citroen’s EMP2 scalable platform. Between the three, Citroen’s MPV offering can now span everything from five to nine seats.
It’s the end of a near two-decade history for the Picasso name. It was first used on the Xsara Picasso in 1999, before being applied to both Mk1 and Mk2 C4 Picassos and the C3 Picasso, which has now been replaced wholesale by the C4 Aircross compact SUV.
In addition to the new name, the C4 SpaceTourer has received a mild update for 2018. There’s a new diesel engine, a BlueHDi unit with 158 bhp and paired to a new eight-speed automatic gearbox. The new powertrain combination goes on sale in June.
Elsewhere in the range, the previous engines are all available, and the old EAT6 six-speed auto gearbox remains – though as the year progresses the new eight-speed unit will replace it on different engines.
There’s a new ‘safety pack’, too, which comes standard on ‘flair’ trim and above. This brings a driver attention warning system, automatic emergency braking at speeds of up to 49 mph, and traffic sign recognition.
UK prices for the new Citroen C4 SpaceTourer begin at £21,125, and £23,425 for the seven-seat Grand C4 SpaceTourer. The new BlueHDi 160 engine will cost from £27,550 when it arrives in showrooms in June.
