Citroën Xsara Picasso (2000 - 2010) 1.6 HDi Exclusive 5d (2005/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I may not be wealthy, but I have an active life in the country and need a versatile workhorse.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They loved it while it lasted - very comfortable and light.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No, I'd buy the 2.0HDi Exclusive: the injector seals and the dual-mass flywheel are liabilities that come with the more refined 1.6HDi engine, and I'd sacrifice a little refinement and economy for the sense of security that comes with simpler engineering.

What are you likely to buy next?

For now I have a £500 Rover with a Honda engine, which I'll keep until I've finished paying for my deceased Xsara Picasso.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,200

When did you buy the car?

January 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

I paid a little on the high side as I wanted the panoramic sliding glass sunroof which is much rarer on this model than on the pre-2004 2-litre diesels. It had full leather, too. 47,000 miles felt ok for a PSA diesel.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Driving position; cruise control; fuel economy; cargo space; good seats; value for money and equipment levels.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

A bit rattly, and no thrill on the corners; but very comfortable ride and good torque at low revs. Easy and no dramas. Gear change a little notchy but fine if you go easy on it.

What's it like to park?

Easy peasy.

Have you had any problems with the car?

I had this car for 8½ months and covered 18,000 miles which were mostly fantastic. I needed a rubber suspension bush but until the last week it was cheap motoring in every other way. Then the dual-mass flywheel (DMF) developed a fault (£1100 to change) and one of the injectors started to blow. The garage got out three of the four seals but the last one broke: this meant cylinder-head off, £1500 bill and I'd still need a new cam-belt/water pump and a set of brake discs at the next service. Time to say goodbye - but it still owes me £4000...

What's most practical about your car?

Incredibly versatile space and brilliant fuel economy.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Cruise control and great driver's seat / position.