Send to a friend

Citroën Xsara Picasso MPV 1.6i 16v Desire 5dr

For 108bhp petrol version is cheapest way to buy a Xsara Picasso, with massive discounts available - over £5k on list price. Reliability is better than Citroens of old, too.

Against No driver’s machine, with a notchy gearchange and soft suspension. Engine is noisy near the rev limiter - lack of torque means it can feel unsuited to an MPV.

What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

Expect dealers to drop the price below £10k. For that you’ll get lots of space for five people and their things, but a desperate lack of performance.

Key facts

0–60mph: 11.4 secs
Top speed: 112 mph
Average mpg: 38.7
Tank range: 468 miles

See all running costs

Features

See all equipment

Size

See all measurements schematic

View the whole Citroën Xsara Picasso MPV range

Cheaper

MPV 1.6i 16v Desire 5dr
£17,695
MPV 1.6 HDi 92 Desire 5dr
£18,695

More expensive

MPV 1.6i 16v Desire 5dr
£17,695
MPV 1.6 HDi 92 Desire 5dr
£18,695

The Citroën Xsara Picasso MPV full review Read in full

Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Fine for everyday use
Ride & Handling
3 out of 5 stars
Comfy, but handling not sharp
Refinement
3 out of 5 stars
Small engine unrefined; others hushed
Buying & Owning
3 out of 5 stars
Huge discounts; good economy
Quality & Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Strong mechanicals
Safety & Security
3 out of 5 stars
Safety good; security not so
Behind The Wheel
3 out of 5 stars
Stylish cabin; poor driving position
Space & Practicality
3 out of 5 stars
Roomy, comfy, very practical
Equipment
3 out of 5 stars
Reasonable kit, plus a range of options

Watch video See all

Or view…

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

The Xsara Picasso caused a stir when it was released in 2000 thanks to its clever use of space, innovative cabin and quirky, bubbly looks.

However, that was nine years ago and the Xsara is certainly feeling its age now. Even Citroen’s own model range has a car which shows up the Xsara Picasso in the shape of the C4 Picasso.

However, the Xsara could still prove a wise buy for a family of five looking for cheap, spacious and comfortable transport. Both models are well equipped, with standard air-con, CD player, electric windows and remote central locking, and a soft suspension setup means it’s comfortable too.

However, the 1.6 petrol engine and 91bhp diesel both struggle when the car is fully laden, and excessive body roll can be an issue, which might upset rear seat passengers. Security isn’t great - there’s no alarm - and there aren’t any curtain airbags.