What are the most common problems with a used Citroën Grand C4 Picasso MPV? It seems that electrical gremlins bug the Grand C4 Picasso the most. The majority are non-engine electrical faults relating to areas such as the air-con and, in particular, the warning lights on the dash.

The C4 has a mixed reliability record, usually finishing in the middle to bottom half of any surveys. Citroën as a brand finished in 28th place out of 32 manufacturers in our most recent reliability survey – a disappointing result.

The Citroën C4 Picasso is a larger, roomier version of Citroën’s C4 hatchback, conceived to sit as a halfway house between the C-segment hatch and the considerably larger seven-seater Grand Picasso. But while a new C4 hatch was launched at the end of 2010, this Picasso remains based on the previous-generation C4.

Space is very good and 7-seat option and functionality are great for a family with a dog. Electrical reliability is questionable as with all french cars, as we have had an sensor problem that cuts out the engine.

Manual application of the parking brake is possible by briefly pulling the control lever. With the ignition on or the engine running, press the brake pedal and while maintaining this pressure, briefly push the control lever to release the parking brake.

The Citroen C4 is a good family hatchback, but not the best option for those prioritising practicality, efficiency and a degree of driving fun. Citroen has succeeded in ensuring the C4 is a comfortable car to drive, while keen pricing and decent standard kit mean it offers good value for money.

First generation (2006–2013)

Previously known as the Citroen C4 Picasso, the Citroen C4 SpaceTourer is an MPV that goes up against the Ford S-MAX, Volkswagen Touran and BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer, as well as medium-sized SUVs like the Mazda CX-5.

There are a large array of features to get used to in the Picasso C4, including a second rear view mirror to keep track of the kids out back and an in-dash chiller bin. The surprisingly sleek Citroen Picasso C4 people mover. Amongst ample storage the boot includes other quirky features such as a plug-in torch, picnic tables and power points.

Perhaps the most significant was the ditching of the old 1.8-litre diesel engines in favour of vastly more efficient 1.6-litre e-HDI powerplants. This car ran all the way through to the 2013 model year when it was replaced by an all-new Grand C4 Picasso, the streamlined shape giving way to more cubist exterior architecture.

The 2008 Citroen C4 Picasso carries a braked towing capacity of up to 1500 Kg, but check to ensure this applies to the configuration you’re considering. The Citroen C4 Picasso is also known as the Citroën Grand C4 Picasso (only seven seater) and the Citroën C4/Grand C4 SpaceTourer (since 2018) in markets outside Australia.

And although the seats look quite thin, they’re well proportioned and supportive on long trips. There are few thrills to be had behind the wheel, even in sporty-sounding VTR models, but the Grand C4 Picasso is safe and reassuring on the road.