Citroen C4 Picasso Arrives Lighter, Roomier and Euro 6-Approved

More traditionally, the C4 Picasso brings smaller dimensions outside, more space inside, lighter weight and more technology to Europe's small people-mover game.

Built on PSA-Peugeot/Citroën's Efficient Modular Platform 2, it's lost 140 kilograms (308 pounds) so it weighs as much – or as little – as the Citroën C3 Picasso and its new design has an air drag index that's better than the Audi R8 and Ford GT. The wheelbase is stretched, the front overhang is reduced by 70 millimeters, and the lower position of the engine and floor drop the center of gravity and the wider track makes for a more aggressive stance and delivers better handling.

Inside, the do-it-all center stack is topped by a 12-inch high-definition screen augmented by a seven-inch touchscreen. The dividers in the two-tone instrument panel are black on the driver's side and Champagne or Ardoise on the passenger side. The info display on the larger screen is reconfigurable, while the smaller, seven-inch screen controls functions like the air conditioning, navigation and Multicity Connect apps. The first row of seats is patterned to look like a one-piece bench, the second row can move fore and aft, standard trunk space is a around 19 cubic feet and the tailgate made of composites opens and closes electronically. Airiness is ensured by the panoramic windscreen and glass roof.

Among its engines are the brand's first BlueHDi diesel engines to meet Euro 6 standards. They can be paired with a six-speed manual, a six-speed clutchless gearbox and, coming in early 2014, a six-speed automatic. Safety and convenience comes with surround cameras in a package called 360 Vision*, Park Assist, adaptive cruise control, active seatbelts, automatic high beam, blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning systems.