Citroen Xsara Picasso estate car review

The Picasso is Citroen's first entry into the ever-expanding compact-MPV market; the design is the first without outside help, unlike the Synergie.

Citroen models are not known to be trouble free; service schedules should be kept up to ensure reliability.

Picasso feels very slow witted, all manoeuvres need to be planned well in advance; not a car to be hurried; the ride is good, but has a tendancy to float over bumps; weak handbrake.

The Picasso is Citroen's first entry into the ever-expanding compact-MPV market; the design is the first without outside help, unlike the Synergie.

The Picasso's seats are all comfortable and supportive; cabin is spacious even with three adults in the rear; boot is huge and will easily accommodate plenty of luggage.

ABS, driver, front passenger and side airbags are standard on all Picasso models. No euro NCAP test as yet but likely to perform well.

Just a transponder immobiliser for both LX and SX models; further protection might be advised.