With its sleek, flowing good looks, Citroën’s new five seat C4 Picasso is distinctively different from both its five seat competitors and its seven seat stable mate, the Grand C4 Picasso. Now on sale in the UK, the C4 Picasso is not only arguably the most attractive compact MPV on the market, but it also benefits from the lightest, most spacious interior in its sector as well as the latest cutting-edge technology.

Citroën’s designers have taken the award-winning Grand C4 Picasso and created a five seat compact MPV that is refreshingly individual, combining a dynamic new styling, featuring re-designed front and rear ends, with exceptional levels of comfort, a highly practical interior seating lay-out and even an all-new version of the versatile Modubox folding trolley.

As well as offering superb all-round visibility and an extremely light and airy interior, this latest Citroën is packed full of firsts for the five seat compact MPV sector. A parking space measurement system, Hill Start Assist, automatic electric parking brake, air quality sensor, scented air freshener, Lane Departure Warning System, self-levelling suspension and paddleshift gearchange are all available, many as standard.

In the hugely competitive compact MPV market, which accounts for one in ten new car sales, the arrival of the five seat C4 Picasso means that Citroën is the only manufacturer to offer three different compact MPVs, with the new model sitting between the hugely successful Xsara Picasso and the seven seat Grand C4 Picasso. In addition, with its C8 full-size people carrier and versatile Berlingo Multispace budget MPV, Citroën offers arguably the most complete range of MPVs around.

Dynamic and visually arresting, the C4 Picasso’s powerful yet elegant new front end combines smart chrome chevrons with a completely re-designed bumper section that incorporates air intakes covered in a sporty black mesh. The signature wave-shaped waistline can be highlighted in chrome and, rounding off the eye-catching side profile, can be complemented by a range of stylish 16, 17 and 18 inch alloy wheels.

The rear of the car is where the C4 Picasso really stands apart from the seven seat model, presenting its own individual personality. The rear windows wrap around the pillars, above the unique horizontal design of the rear lights, to give a virtually uninterrupted all-glass look to the upper half of the vehicle.
On the inside the feeling of space in the front is accentuated by the deliberately simple design of the dash. Many of the usual buttons are cleverly incorporated into the C4 Picasso’s innovative fixed centred controls steering wheel, while individual controls for the vents and air conditioning are conveniently positioned at either end of the dash.

Freeing up even more space, the handbrake is replaced by an automatic electric parking brake and the traditional gear lever, on models with the electronic gearbox system, is replaced by a paddleshift gearchange and mode selector stalk.

The C4 Picasso is particularly remarkable for the vast expanse of glass that surrounds it, creating a light and bright environment for all onboard. The wide angle panoramic windscreen is the biggest in the class and rises up and over the heads of the front seat occupants, providing a field of vision that is double that of a standard MPV.

The slim design of the windscreen pillars combines with the large quarter light windows and panoramic windscreen to ensure that the C4 Picasso offers the best driver’s visibility of any five seat compact MPV. Assisted by the kinked wave in the waistline the C4 Picasso also offers rear passengers the best visibility in the sector, while the huge optional panoramic sunroof allows even more light to pour in from above.

Artificial light also has a key role to play, with the availability of up to 30 different light sources onboard. These range from an innovative rechargeable boot light that doubles as a hand-held torch to subtle strip lighting in the doors, headlining and dash. There are door bins that are automatically illuminated when a hand is placed inside and door mirrors housing welcome lights, which bathe the ground with light when approaching the vehicle at night.

Passengers in the rear row benefit from three individual, full size, sliding and tilting seats - a rarity in this sector – as well as a flat floor and class-leading knee and elbow room. The inventive seat design allows the rear seats to be quickly and easily folded flat by pulling on the straps at the side of the seat base, all without removing the head restraints.

With all five seats in place, Citroën’s new compact MPV heads the category with up to 605 litres of boot space underneath the luggage cover. This extends to a maximum 1,734 litres to the roof when the rear seats are folded flat.

To enhance practicality, Citroën has created a completely new version of its unique Modubox removable trolley especially for the C4 Picasso. Introduced in its original form on the Xsara Picasso, this new folding, wheeled trolley comes with a soft canvas bag, which can be insulated, making it easier to divide boot space and to transport objects away from the vehicle.

Citroën’s designers have made use of almost every possible space in the
C4 Picasso, sculpting a number of innovative storage compartments to hide everyday belongings. A large capacity ‘coolbox’ sits in the centre of the dash on models with the electronic gearbox system, there are two large compartments on top of the dash and hidden cubby holes under the floor in the second row to name but a few.

With air conditioning standard on most models, and with individual air-flow controls in the second row, occupants will be able to enjoy perfect travelling conditions whatever the weather. Particularly useful for short stops on hot days, a ‘rest’ function allows the air conditioning to continue to operate after the engine is switched off.

Adding to the exceptional levels of comfort, the C4 Picasso can be equipped with an air quality sensor that monitors the levels of outdoor pollution and will automatically switch the airflow to ‘recycle’ if high levels of pollutants are detected. A built-in air freshener with a choice of scents, which include a new tobacco-neutralising fragrance, is also available.

Positively brimming with neat touches, the C4 Picasso can be specified with aircraft-style trays on the back of the front seats, which can conceal integrated reading lights or video screens for the DVD player. All models feature a clever sun visor system on the panoramic windscreen, incorporating a sliding blind and flip-down visor to protect the front seat occupants from sun glare, as well as an automatic fuel flap.

A number of innovative features have been introduced, each designed to make the driving experience safe and stress-free. A parking space measurement system allows drivers to locate a space when parallel parking, and is the first such system on the market, while the standard fitment of Hill Start Assist eases pulling away when driving off on a slope.

The long list of equipment on offer also includes front and rear parking sensors, cruise control and speed limiter, a high quality hi-fi system developed with Philips, and a NaviDrive colour satellite navigation system with built-in telephone and voice recognition facility.

Safety is a key fundamental for Citroën and the C4 Picasso benefits from being built on the same platform as the Grand C4 Picasso, which achieved a maximum five star adult occupant protection rating from EuroNCAP. ABS with EBD and EBA, ESP with traction control and seven airbags are standard on all models, while a Lane Departure Warning System and Xenon dual-function directional headlamps are also available.

To increase its family appeal the C4 Picasso offers further safety features such as a child mirror in the front, four Isofix seats, anti-pinch functions on the windows, an electric child lock system and five audible and visual seatbelt warning indicators.

The security of the vehicle and its contents has not been neglected, so to increase peace of mind the C4 Picasso is the only five seat compact MPV to offer laminated side windows, while an alarm, remote control central locking with deadlocks and automatic locking of the vehicle when in motion are also available.

Providing an optimum balance between road holding and ride comfort, the new
C4 Picasso features a redesigned running gear to take into account the needs of a five seat people carrier, as well as the availability of pneumatic rear suspension. This self-levelling suspension, available on top end models, benefits handling and safety by maintaining a constant ride height, regardless of load. It also allows the height of the rear sill to be raised or lowered independently for easier loading.

Depending on the model selected, buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual transmission, or Citroën’s advanced new 6-speed electronic gearbox system. With the option of manually-operated paddleshift gearchange or an automatic mode, this hi-tech system is exceptionally easy to use and offers lower fuel consumption.

The new C4 Picasso range is powered by a choice of four engines: 127hp 1.8i 16V and 143hp 2.0i 16V petrol units, as well as 110hp 1.6HDi and 138hp 2.0HDi diesel powerplants. Both diesel engines are fitted with Diesel Particulate Filter Systems and return CO2 emissions as low as 150g/km. Fuel economy for all four versions is impressive - the 1.6HDi is capable of returning around 50mpg on the combined cycle.

Xavier Duchemin, managing director at Citroën UK, said: “Citroën now offers UK new car buyers the widest ever choice of MPVs from a single manufacturer. With its dynamic styling, cutting-edge technology, and light, bright and airy interior the new
C4 Picasso has all the right ingredients to stand out from the five seat MPV crowd.”

SPORTING AND REFINED: THE NEW TOYOTA YARIS SR KEY POINTS

• New SR 1.8 flagship mode for the Yaris range
• Powered by new 131bhp (133 DIN hp) 1.8-litre Dual VVT-i engine
• Suspension and steering tuned for sportier performance
• 17-inch alloy wheels and body styling kit with side skirts and rear spoiler
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control as standard
• On sale from 1 April, priced from £12,995 (three-door)
• SR grade also introduced for 1.3 VVT-i and 1.4 D-4D Yaris, priced from £10,695

The Toyota Yaris SR 1.8 is a new flagship model for the Yaris range, bringing sports performance, style and refinement to a car that’s already a leader in terms of safety, equipment and comfort.
It is powered by a new 1.8-litre petrol engine with Dual VVT-i technology and benefits from sports-tuned steering and suspension, a striking body kit, 17-inch alloy wheels and a premium equipment specification that offers more in terms of comfort and convenience features than any of its segment rivals. Add to that Yaris’s class-leading safety performance, with a five-star Euro NCAP adult passenger safety rating and a unique-in-class standard-fit driver’s knee airbag and you have a formidable all-round package.

Beyond the SR 1.8, Toyota is also introducing new SR versions of the Yaris, powered by the 1.3-litre VVT-i petrol and 1.4 D-4D 90 diesel engines. These combine sports styling and high equipment specification with highly competitive prices and ownership costs.

New 1.8-litre Dual VVT-i engine

The SR 1.8 is the first Toyota to be powered by the new 1.8 Dual VVT-i petrol engine, equipped with intelligent timing for both intake and exhaust valves to deliver smoother performance and greater efficiency. Maximum output of 131bhp (133 DIN hp) is achieved at 6,000rpm, with 173Nm of torque delivered at 4,400rpm. This gives nought to 62mph acceleration in 9.3 seconds, with combined cycle fuel economy of 39.2mpg. Carbon dioxide emissions are 170g/km, placing the SR 1.8 in Band E for Vehicle Excise Duty.

Sports chassis, suspension and steering

The SR 1.8’s chassis and suspension are tuned for good handling and ride comfort. The suspension has also been lowered for a more rewarding driving experience and the Electric Power Steering has been adjusted for quicker and more precise response to driver input. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC) are provided as standard, in addition to ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

Design and equipment

The Yaris SR 1.8 is available in both three and five-door body styles. To complement its sportier performance, it features a rear roof spoiler, side skirts, chrome sports exhaust, LED tail lights and deeper front and rear bumpers, the front fitted with integrated fog lights. The interior is equipped with sports seats and an upholstery fabric that’s exclusive to the model. There’s also a leather trimmed steering wheel, chrome trim detailing and an amber-lit Optitron instrument display with analogue read-outs.

Building on the high specification of the existing Yaris T Spirit model, the SR 1.8 gains exclusive-design 17-inch alloy wheels, plus VSC with TRC and sports pedals. It also features climate control air conditioning with pollen filter, Smart Entry and Start system, six-speaker audio system with CD player and MP3/WMA file playing function (from disc), a reach and rake-adjustable steering column, electrically adjustable door mirrors and front fog lamps.

High equipment, high value SR grade models

The arrival of the SR 1.8 gives the Yaris a new sporty dimension and its impact is spreading further into the model range with the introduction of other new SR versions powered by Toyota’s 1.3-litre VVT-i petrol and 1.4-litre D-4D 90 diesel engines. Launched at the same time as the SR 1.8, these feature models enable customers to enjoy sports styling and high equipment specification with competitive on-the-road prices and ownership costs.

The SR 1.3 and 1.4 D-4D match the current T Spirit specification with the addition of turbine-style 15-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, chrome exhaust finisher, front scuff plates and brushed alloy gear knob. Other high quality features include the Smart Entry and Start system, climate control air conditioning and front fog lamps. In spite of all these extra features, the SR models are £615 cheaper than their T Spirit equivalents.

BIGGER ENGINE AND LOWER PRICE FOR REVISED COPEN
• New 1.3 litre engine with twin overhead camshafts and DVVT
• 112 mph top speed – 6 mph higher than previous 660 cc turbo
• 0-62 mph in 9.5 seconds – down from 11.7 seconds
• 56 mpg Extra Urban – 5.1 mpg better than before
• CO2 emissions down to 140 g/km (were 151 g/km)
• Higher gearing for more relaxed cruising
• Extended service intervals – up from 3,000 miles to 9,000 miles
• Ultra-competitive new price – £10,995 OTR – £2,500 less than ’04 model
• Cute looks and electric folding metal hardtop remain
• Standard equipment includes power steering, ABS with EBD, air-conditioning, electric windows and door mirrors, remote central-locking, alloy wheels, front fog lamps, radio/CD player and boot spoiler
Daihatsu’s cute and timeless Copen sports car has just become considerably more desirable with a punchy yet more frugal new 1.3 litre engine, higher gearing to enhance refinement and a sharp new price of only £10,995 on-the-road.

This is a full £2,500 less than the original model introduced for the ’04 model year which rapidly attracted an enthusiastic fan club seduced by its cute, timeless looks, effortless electric metal folding roof and nimble handling.

Originally conceived for the Japanese Kei-car market only, the UK’s importer, Daihatsu Vehicle Distributors Limited, persuaded the factory to re-engineer the tiny 660 cc turbo petrol engine to comply with European Whole Vehicle Type Approval.

Now, the Copen’s appeal has been drastically widened thanks to the fitment of the same 87 PS engine as the Sirion supermini which not only boosts performance and economy but allows higher gearing for more relaxed cruising.

Visually, the only difference to the pure uncluttered shape of the previous Copen is a small rear boot spoiler and a range of new colours.

Daihatsu Managing Director, Paul Tunnicliffe, said: “We are all car enthusiasts here at Daihatsu and were instrumental in bringing the original model to market in the UK.
“With this lively new engine and a highly competitive price, we are delighted not only to have a ‘halo’ model in our range but to be able to offer fellow enthusiasts such a characterful and affordable fun car.”

New Engine Transforms Appeal

The Copen’s new 1.3 litre petrol engine totally transforms the small car’s appeal while providing even better fuel economy and lower exhaust emissions – a Daihatsu speciality.
For example, the revised sports car now has a 112 mph top speed (up 6 mph), 0-62 mph time of only 9.5 seconds instead of 11.7 seconds with stronger, more responsive throttle response throughout the rev-range.

Equally importantly, fuel economy is outstanding at 36.7 Urban, 56.5 mpg Extra Urban and 47.1 mpg on the Combined Cycle (was 35.8/50.4 and 44.1 mpg). Meanwhile, CO2 exhaust emissions drop from 151 g/km to 140 g/km.

And because of the 19 PS increase in power and 14.5 lb ft boost to torque, the gearing has been raised with 4th, for example, being the same as the previous 5th at 15.9 mph/1,000 rpm and the new 5th pulling 19.4 mph/1,000 rpm. This improves both refinement and fuel economy.
The engine itself is highly-advanced and is essentially the same unit fitted to the Daihatsu Sirion supermini.

Featuring Dynamic Variable Valve Timing (DVVT) which enhances low-speed pulling power and high-rev response, the twin overhead camshaft unit is compact and light, with an alloy head and block.
In fact, the new Copen is only 27 kg heavier than the previous 660 cc model and now weighs a nimble 850 kg.

Power is 87 PS at 6,000 rpm with torque of 88.5 lb ft at 4,400 rpm. The engine has a 10.3:1 compression ratio and features a bore and stroke of 72 x 79.7 mm.
It also features durable chains for its camshaft drive which require no maintenance and cannot snap like belt systems. Oil change intervals are now 9,000 miles instead of the previous 660 cc model’s 3,000 miles.

World’s First Self-Regenerating Catalyst

The new Sirion 1.3 litre launched in 2005 featured the world’s first self-regenerating catalyst. This innovation is also shared by the new Copen.

It effectively extends the life of the catalytic converter, reducing maintenance costs and is kinder to the environment as it keeps the catalyst ‘healthier’ over a higher mileage meaning the already low 140 g/km does not increase as the engine becomes older.

This revolutionary technology works by providing a self-regenerating capability in the particles of the precious metal which normally degrades.

Using nanotechnology, the intelligent catalyst incorporates metallic ions of palladium, the most heat-sensitive of the metals used in a catalytic converter.

According to temperature and available oxygen, the particles turn in and out of a crystalline state therefore regenerating and prolonging the cat’s ability to clean exhaust gasses.

Disarming Looks With A Charming Party-Piece

The Copen’s disarming, cute looks perfectly express its fun image, with a rounded, teardrop design, minimum overhangs and oval front and rear lamps.

Its cockpit is especially inviting and intimate without being cramped. In fact, despite qualifying as an official Japanese mini-car (Kei-Car), the Copen has ample interior width and space for those exceeding six feet in height.

The Copen’s major ‘party-piece’, of course, is an electrically-operated folding hard-top – very similar to that on a Mercedes SLK – offering excellent security and weather protection.

All the driver has to do is unlock two windscreen catches and press a button on the centre console. The lightweight aluminium roof then folds into the boot in less than 20 seconds.

Luggage capacity with the roof up is sufficient for a weekend away. With the roof down, there is space for a soft sports bag.

The front-wheel drive Copen measures 3,440 mm long, has a 1,475 mm width excluding mirrors and is 1,245 mm high. Its wheelbase is 2,225 mm, overhangs are tiny and the driver sits perfectly between front and rear wheels for extra handling intimacy. The engine is transversely-mounted in the front.

Agile Chassis – Conceived As A Sports Car

Anyone expecting the Copen to be a shallow style-statement will be in for a surprise. The power-steering is especially direct and informative and the handling taut and agile.

Firmly damped with minimum body-roll and a low centre-of-gravity, the Copen also has a particularly low polar-moment-of-inertia. This means most of the weight is between the front and rear wheels, avoiding the pendulum-effect of large overhangs.

The result is that the car tracks especially straight at speed yet can be minutely adjusted by throttle and steering inputs – just like a prestige sports car.

Front suspension is by MacPherson struts with high caster angles for stable straight-line running and a firm, informative feel through the steering wheel.

This is further helped by radial ball-bearings in the suspension supports which reduce friction and give clearer messages. Gas/oil shock-absorbers are also fitted for consistent damping – even under severe conditions.

The rear features a conventional torsion beam and coil springs with separate monotube gas/oil shock absorbers. Anti-roll bars are fitted front and rear and there is substantial cross-bracing reinforcement under the floorpan for extra structural rigidity.

The Copen has a conventional hydraulic power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system as opposed to the growing trend towards electric power-assistance. The benefits are greater feel and sensitivity which is more in keeping with a sports car.

The Satria Neo is the latest addition to the Proton range. Launched in February, this new 3-door supermini is available with a choice of 1.3 or 1.6 litre engine, with prices starting from just £7,995 OTR.

Proton Cars UK Managing Director, Brian Collier said: “The Satria Neo will give new and existing customers trusted Proton reliability combined with sleek Lotus design and smooth ride and handling, all accompanied by our reputable customer service.”

Exterior Design

The input from Lotus is clear in the exterior styling of the car. The Satria Neo is bold, stylish and desirable, with a sculpted front hood, stylish front grille, detailed front and rear bumpers, sporty ‘tiger-eye’ projector headlamps and its sweeping silhouette all adding to a graceful, feline impression.
The exterior is low, sporty and road-hugging. When combined with the sleek aerodynamic profile, the Satria Neo delivers low wind resistance, good high speed manoeuvrability, vehicle stability and control.

Simon Wood, Engineering Director at Group Lotus Plc said: “I am proud of the Satria Neo, it embodies those aspects held as important by Lotus; striking design, dynamic performance and driver enjoyment.”

Interior Styling

The modern, minimalist interior of the Satria Neo takes its cue from Lotus. A clean, and contemporary layout creates a sporty, sophisticated feel, while the spacious cabin environment provides maximum comfort to enhance the entire driving experience.

Equipment

Well equipped for the warm weather the Satria Neo provides an air conditioning system with pollen filter as standard on the 1.3 range and climate control as standard on all 1.6 models. Drivers who want to set their own constant speed can opt for the automatic 1.6 GSX model which has cruise control as standard.

In car entertainment is provided by a Blaupunkt radio with RDS and CD player, compatible with both CDRW and MP3 CDs, in addition to standard CD formats. The GSX range can be equipped with a hands-free telephone using the Bluetooth technology built into the stereo system.
In addition, all Satria Neo models have front electric windows, steering wheel audio controls, 60:40 split folding rear seats and ample storage and luggage space. With the rear seats up, the storage space in the boot totals 286 litres (0.286 cu m) and with the seats down this increases to 615 litres (0.615 cu m).

Engine power and performance

With a sleek design and an impressive CamPro 16v engine, the Satria Neo is all about energy, style and excitement. Superb ride and handling comes courtesy of Proton’s sister company, Lotus, helping to deliver a car that boasts high speed stability, great manoeuvrability and superior control. All manual transmission models have a five-speed gearbox and a four-speed automatic option is available on 1.6 models.

Safety and Security

The Satria Neo is equipped with a range of safety features to help prevent an accident and protect in the event of a collision. Safety features include; twin airbags, anti-lock braking system with electronic brake distribution, reverse distance sensors, seatbelts with pre-tensioners and anti-submarine seats.
Security features include; an integrated alarm system with ignition lock protection, immobiliser with a unique encoded transponder, a single exterior lock with free rolling key cylinder to ensure the lock cannot be broken with a foreign object, and a remote central locking system.