Citroën Grand C4 Picasso (2007 - 2013) 2.0HDi 16V Exclusive 5d EGS (2007/56) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Given the price I paid, then more money than sense springs to mind.

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

They love it - but mainly for the extras like the satnav, the built in DVD screens in the back, the xenon lights, etc...

Would you buy this car again and why?

Aboslutely not - not anything else from Citroen given their unhelpful attitude to all the problems I've had.

What are you likely to buy next?

Anything other than a Citroen. A Trabant perhaps.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£23,500

When did you buy the car?

May 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

The car was about 4 months old with 4k miles. It was fully loaded (new price over £28,000) and I parted with £23.5k. In retrospect, given the experiences I've had, this was way too generous. I suspect the previous owner was glad to be shot of it, he gave a very plausible reason though.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Good looks, practicality, reasonably perky yet frugal. Also, this particular model was loaded with just about everything other than leather upholstery.

What was the dealer like?

Didn't buy from a dealer

What's it like to drive?

I'm a bit jaundiced here due to the initial clutch engagement problems - I dreaded driving it. Even after complete replacement, it seems to have good days and bad. After the clutch is engaged, you have to be prepared for quirky gearchanges, then nothing happening on kick-down for a second or two - far better to get used to the paddles. The ride is very restless too - I'm told this is a characteristic of the air suspension (self-levelling). It also seems more susceptible to cross winds on the motorway than any other car I've had. Engine sounds harsh when revved.

What's it like to park?

Before I had the clutch replaced, this was an awful experience (trying to creep forward or backwards with accompanying bunny-hopping etc...). Since new clutch, it's OK - but front & rear parking sensors are a must.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Where to start. Major problems in first year with the EGS which required complete new clutch and actuating mechanism. Trying to "feather" the clutch was like bunny-hopping with a noise as if someone was underneath with a jack hammer. Also, steering rack needed replacing. Every system closed down due to a faulty ABS (gearbox had to be manually "paddled" but wouldn't go above 3rg gear, then automatic handbrake would not release after switching ignition off - you have no idea how the handbrake had to be released). Both rear suspension units collapsed at 33k miles, within 200 miles of each other. Current situation: EGS still engages with a jerk and a shudder (this is entirely separate from the quirky gearchange when you're on the move)& there's a knocking noise over rough terain.

What's most practical about your car?

Excellent driving position, viewing, seat versatility, load space

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Hmm. One or two spring to mind. Parking sensors, xenon headlamps (a must IMHO), satnav, built-in DVD centre for the rear seats, panoramic roof.