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Citroen’s roll-out of its new PureTech petrol engines is in full swing. Available in a range of power outputs, the three-cylinder turbo and non-turbo units are fitted to everything from the tiny C1 to the Grand C4 Picasso MPV.
We first tried this powerful PureTech 130 in the DS 4 late last year, and latterly matched to the EAT6 automatic gearbox in the facelifted C4. It’s now available in the C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso, representing a new entry point into the MPV range.
The 128bhp PureTech replaces the outgoing naturally aspirated 118bhp 1.6-litre VTi, boasting better performance, lower running costs, and only a modest increase in price.
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Only available in entry-level VTR and VTR+ trims, this new PureTech 130 commands a premium of around £550 like-for-like over the VTi, yet improves fuel economy by 12mpg and reduces CO2 emissions by a considerable 30g/km. It’s almost two seconds faster to 62mph (10.1 seconds vs 11.9 seconds) and thanks to the addition of a small turbocharger and 50Nm more torque, feels quicker in-gear, too.
Being a tiny petrol engine, it’s very quiet around town. The characteristic three-cylinder thrum is audible, but feels more refined than in rivals – remaining hushed under 3,000rpm. The same is true on the motorway, making the Picasso PureTech more than capable of long distance drives when needed. In fact, the addition of a turbocharger ensures it is far more eager, with plenty of pick-up in sixth gear at 70mph.
It’s fair to say this engine suits the manual gearbox, too. While we weren’t a fan of the PureTech 130 when fitted to the new EAT6 auto in the standard C4, it works really well matched to the six-speed manual. It’s a little notchy at times, but easy enough to use.
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Due to the fact this is only a new engine, and not a mid-life facelift, the C4 Picasso is just as practical, versatile and easy to live with as it has ever been. The boot measures a decent 630 litres with the seats in place, or 1,851 litres folded flat. Cubbies are plentiful, and nifty features like the extended A-pillars and lengthy panoramic windscreen make it really easy to drive. All cars come with three individual rear seats, and the minimalist central touchscreen.
Our VTR+ car added the 17-inch Anaconda alloy wheels (a £225 option), but in true Citroen style, the ride is calm and composed even on bigger rims, managing to soak up all but the worst lumps and bumps in the road. Various add-ons like the eMyWay sat-nav, keyless start and reversing camera we’re also fitted, but even the standard VTR+ comes with dual-zone air con, LED daytime running lights and cruise control.
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Disappointingly, the 128bhp PureTech engine is only available on basic VTR and VTR+ trims. If you want a range-topping petrol Picasso, you’re forced to opt for the thirstier THP 165 – and that’s only available with the automatic gearbox.
For that reason, the diesel will still make more sense for most people, but as petrol engines become faster, cleaner and more refined, there’s reason to think twice before taking the plunge. The VTR+ BlueHDi costs £1,215 more (£20,785) but can’t match the petrol for performance, and in the real world is unlikely to return the quoted 74.3mpg.
- Price: £19,570
- Engine: 1.2-litre 3-cyl turbo petrol
- Engine: 128bhp/230Nm
- Transmission: Six-speed manual, front-wheel drive
- 0-62mph: 10.1 seconds
- Top speed: 125mph
- Economy/CO2: 56.5mpg, 115g/km
- On sale: Now
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