Having already achieved undisputed success since their respective launches in 2006 and 2007 – with nearly 650,000 vehicles sold globally and 63,000 sales to British customers – Citroën UK has announced that C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso will feature new styling, enhanced levels of equipment and engine upgrades from October 2010.

Both C4 Picasso ranges will also feature models specified with Citroën’s new e-HDi micro-hybrid technology, which improves fuel efficiency and lowers CO₂ emissions.  This will be the very first time that e-HDi equipped models will be available in the UK. The new C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show later this month.

With a fresh, new and even more elegant exterior design – as well as exceptionally bright and airy cabins, thanks to the stunning wide-angle panoramic windscreen – the award-winning range of compact MPVs boasts new styling elements including Citroën’s new chevron design on the front grille and tailgate; a new front bumper; new headlights and rear light clusters; and – on VTR+ and Exclusive models – a distinctive front LED light signature.

The best-selling VTR+ models also now feature stylish chrome side window sills and a chrome rear bumper strip, making them as stylish as they are versatile. The C4 Picasso Exclusive’s prestigious appearance can be enhanced even further thanks to a new and unique ‘Black Top’ option.  Available in conjunction with 6 body colours, this option means the roof and A-pillars are painted with a luxuriously glossy Onyx black.  The exterior door handles, door mirrors and alloy wheel centre caps also receive a glossy black finish to put the final touches to what is a very premium look.

The new Citroën C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso will delight drivers and families alike thanks to the perfect blend of convenience and safety, with new enhanced levels of standard equipment.  All VTR+ models are upgraded to feature rear parking sensors, electrically folding mirrors, a USB socket and Bluetooth®. Similarly, all Exclusive models now benefit from stylish 17-inch alloy wheel; new upholstery; USB and Bluetooth®connectivity; and the new Citroën eTouch Emergency & Assistance System.

Citroën eTouch automatically or manually makes emergency or assistance calls, using a built-in SIM card, for a rapid response in the event of an accident or if the car is immobilised.  Citroën’s eTouch system also allows drivers to consult information online at their ‘MyCITROËN’ personal space, which allows them monitor to their vehicle’s maintenance requirements and to receive advice on improving their fuel economy.  These services are free and available 24-7.

Citroën’s new e-HDi micro-hybrid technology combines a second-generation Stop & Start system; a reversible alternator that recovers energy during braking; an e-booster function that re-starts the engine instantly (0.4 seconds); and a refined Euro 5 HDi 109bhp DPFS engine with a 6-speed EGS transmission. This advanced powertrain delivers combined cycle economy of up to 58.9mpg for C4 Picasso and 57.6mpg for Grand C4 Picasso, with CO₂ emissions of between 125g/km and 132g/km.  In built-up, urban environments, this innovative technology can lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by as much as 15 per cent. Both ranges also now feature a new 2.0HDi 150hp diesel engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox, which delivers driving pleasure and combined cycle fuel economy of 49.6mpg.  A refined 2.0HDi 160hp with a 6-speed automatic gearbox is also newly available on Exclusive models.

The new Citroën C4 Picasso & Grand C4 Picasso will be available in the UK from 1^st October, with Euro 5 compliant engines across both ranges.