Test Drive Citroen Xsara Picasso since 2004 Minivan

Growing class

For any family and for every taste
A lot of useful volume on a small area Here are their motto. High landing allows you to see the entire column ahead of standing, right up to the traffic light, and a dimensionless trunk that increases as much as the interior decreases, makes minivans indispensable.

Who is something
 
Ford C-Max

Price of a car tested $ 23 160
Power 145 liters. with. at 6000 rpm.
Max. Speed \u200b\u200b203 km / h
Acceleration 0-100 km / h 9.8 s
 
Toyota Corolla Verso.

Price tested car $ 26,900
Power 135 liters. with. at 6000 rpm.
Max. Speed \u200b\u200b185 km / h
Acceleration 0-100 km / h 9.9 s
 
VW Touran

Price of a tested car $ 30 140
Power 150 liters. with. at 6000 rpm.
Max. Speed \u200b\u200b204 km / h
Acceleration 0-100 km / h 10.4 s
 
Citroen Xsara Picasso.

Price of a tested car $ 28,073
Power 137 liters. with. at 6000 rpm.
Max. Speed \u200b\u200b192 km / h
Acceleration 0-100 km / h 10.9 s
The fingers of one hand will be enough to recalculate the brands that do not produce minivans today. In the second hand, plants producing one model will be placed. Almost every company, releasing its niche in this category, it is diligently accepted to dig deep into and styling, along the way, causing potential customers with all sorts of options and new-fashioned solutions. Even the domestic VAZ once gathered with the Spirit and walked his hope of an unfortunate chassis from Niva. But we will not be about sad.
By virtue of very hard and specific starting conditions: a single-volume layout, a large useful volume and a high level of passive safety, most of the small buses are obtained, so to speak, one person. The more interesting was, bringing the nose to the nose four popular brands we have, identify family differences Ford Focus C-Max, Volkswagen Touran, Toyota Corolla Verso and Citroen Xsara Picasso.
DYNAMICS
The fact that the two-liter C-Max is unusually fast and obedient, a lot has been said. Each time, sitting behind the wheel of this 100% German car, you realize that in building close to the ideal chassis, engines and transmissions, our former opponent has not been equal in war. From the first movements on Fords 17, the resistant feeling is born, which is best transmitted by the phrase here everything is as needed!
Silent and responsive engine, easily twisted to the limit, a box with excellent hit in any transmission. Even the problem with the touch, marked half a year ago, left. Apparently still managed to correct the engine control. In any case, the Ford Focus C-MAX is easy to stronger.
Volkswagen in dynamics can easily argue with Ford. Touran with a two-liter motor we have a rare bird. German test races revealed approximately the same characteristics, and the FSI sound is almost not heard, as there are no vibrations. More powerful, but also more severe Volkswagen, nevertheless lost to Ford, but from the scene on the first he breaks fun and longer worries every transmission. For systematic shipments or passengers in this discipline, I would prefer it to it.
Toyota Corolla Verso looks in comparison with competitors very worthy. Despite the smaller volume, the motor is powerful, to moderate noisy, but fully all of its charms does not allow you to taste the mechanics and automatic box. There are no complaints about the triggering of the clutch, and with a strong acceleration its work should be recognized as an acceptable only longer than I want to change the gear. The main difficulties in gradation of smooth overclocking. In some moments, with a small addition of gas, the box itself begins to calculate that turn on, the hitch follows, the gas pedal is stronger than new reflections, etc. As a result, instead of adequate pressing of overclocking, slowing down. At this time, the surrounding cars have already time to accelerate, or start maneuver, thinking that the kettle is behind the wheel. However, a leisurely housewife does not feel this. The selector is simple, understanding and does not cause a second of the hitch.
The brakes are magnificent, besides are equipped with an assistant that creates a pedal with a long retention.
The two-liter Motor Citroen Xsara Picasso is almost equal to Toyotov's power 1.8 and is equipped only with automatic transmission. Not too frisky motor and a long-thinking box do not allow Picasso to get out of the leaders on acceleration, although the automatic is distilled from the jerks. Here, clearly smooth acceleration was put in the first place.
Citroen immediately became the champion in braking. The slightest pressure on the pedal leads to a sharp slowdown. Sometimes it is somewhat higher than the planned, but the efficiency of the brakes does not leave doubt. Touran and C-Max and here remained faithful country of origin. Both slow down in proportion to pressing, both easily delivering from the final clum, while still Ford doses the milligram effort better.
The Japanese also slows down well, but in adequacy of impact on braking mechanisms is inferior to Europeans.
CONTROLLABILITY
Anyone, destroyed behind the wheel Ford Focus C-MAX, gladly notes its excellent handling. Even the most microscopic steering movements cause deviation from the trajectory on the share of degrees. If the driver, quickly accustomed to this superconduct, wants to imagine himself to Schumacher, C-MAX to some limit it will easily allow this and only at all unfortunate trust of the steering wheel will answer with a slight and understandable demolition. Passengers in such a situation are better for something to keep, because accelerations are obtained racing thanks to the focus trolley.
Touran already provokes to such exploits to such feats to a much lesser extent, although in practice it is able to register the exciting snake spirit. He is in Golfovski firmly on the legs, although, naturally, the chassis donor is barely more.
With very sharp movements, the steering wheel poured heaviness. This deprives the driver of the opportunity to put a minivan into two wheels and at the same time eliminates passengers from the aircraft boltanka.
Corolla Verso has excellent swallowing of long and short waves. Even on big citchdobins, it rarely comes to the bumps. Irritating overly a strong reaction to transverse joints, which are given to a ringing knock and shake throughout the car, and a slightly tuggy amplifier that does not contribute to steeply brightened.
Also with a smaller hunt enters the rotation Citroen. Soft steering wheel, the same reactions to its movements. After a little addiction, and he went where it was necessary, but we seemed not entirely correct to introduce a constant amendment to the wind. In addition, the XSARA Picasso is quite leaning in the blurry and starts to squeak the tires too early. This is a car for a slow ride.
ERGONOMICS
Citroen has always walked its own way, and this particular path of the face of the brand. Each XSara Picasso fell into the salon will be fascinated by wonderful finish materials, friendly design and numerous trifles, which have to long stay inside. Soft seats in which the inhabitants are drowning, as in the eastern pillows, are not devoid of various supports and lullly do not get worse than the cradle. In addition, they are extremely pleasant to the touch.
Citroen's steering wheel is traditionally thin, and too relief hub, in my opinion, could be more compromised.
The really good Picasso is visibility. Relatively thin front racks, sloping hood and high landing put a Frenchman at first place when looking at the driver in any direction. A highly inclined rear window of the largest size passes on the rearview mirror maximum image that beginnier drivers will certainly observe. They will also subscribe to the smallest and uncomfortable external mirrors.
To Citroen's honor, it is necessary to celebrate a regular suitcase that turns into a cargo carriage.
The second part of the review is the Volkswagen Touran. Huge glass and the greatest height allow the driver to control the surroundings well, although the thick front racks close the large sector. Corolla Verso and Focus C-MAX are close to this indicator, but the first is still better to see the obstacles from behind. All minivans besides Citroen, the lower edge of the windshield is quite high.
Details of the salon Volkswagen seemed to move here from other brand cars. Traditional corporate style in everything, and for practical, okay tailored minivan, rather, good than bad. Of our competitors Touran, the only car with the floor lever KP. Hard seats have many adjustments, and there is no saddle who has not found their poses on them.
Ford is a sample of a laconic and strict approach to building a dwelling space. He is the direct opposite of the French one-index. Here each millimeter works and carefully thought out. Everything is subordinate to rationality. The steering wheel lies in his hands, like a glove, handles and buttons are themselves, and the chairs simply perfectly combine rigidity and comfort.
Toyota seemed inside the most closely, besides, it is harder to sit down much and quite a rather low front of the roof is designed for low people. Seats with weak support, although with great adjustment capabilities.
What really in Toyot is great, so this is the third row. If there is no unexpected on the most spacious from competitors VW Touran, the compact Corolla Verso surprises the right use of the space behind the driver and the simplicity of the interior transformation.
In terms of shipping, indisputable leadership holds Touran help and champion sizes, and a rectangular body box. Almost two cubes at the maximum are the best argument.
Ford and Citroen will provide a close volume for loading, while Citroen has some part eats whale cargo supplies, and the most modest Toyota truck.
Outcome
Each of the car presented on the test is interesting and valuable. Toyota will delight every day an unusually beautiful instrument shield and modern appearance, its non-aggressive interior is complemented by calm haggards when driving.
The fan of Xsara Picasso, resting on regime chairs, will be surrounded by comfortable in the light and indoor eyes of the air salon. Volkswagen will take away several generations of relatives or an impressive mountain of things at once, and Ford will enjoy the active driver.
Taking into account all the indicators, including the price, we settled competitors as follows. In the first place Ford, who scored more than all the advantages. Second place at Volkswagen. Close to it, with a difference from strength in Polballa, Toyota, and closes a series of Citroen.

Ford Focus C-Max
Engine:
Working volume 1999 cm3,
Compression ratio of 10.8: 1,
Max. Power 145 liters. with. at 6000 rpm,
Max. Moment 185 nm at 4500 rpm
Fuel consumption (EPA): 5.6 / 10 l per 100 km
Volume of fuel tank: 55 l
Number of places 5.
Drive front
Suspension
Front independent
Rear multi-profile
Gearbox fur. 5-stupas.
Dynamic characteristics
Maximum speed, km / h 203
Acceleration up to 100 km / h, from 9.8
Total information
Mass cutting. / Full, kg 1260/1855

Maximum volume: 1620 cm3.
The trunk is medium in size, but it is easy to zoom in, moving forward rear seats.
 
Toyota Corolla Verso.
Engine:
Working volume 1794 cm3,
Compression ratio of 10: 1,
Max. Power 135 liters. with. at 6000 rpm,
Max. Moment 171 nm at 4200 rpm / min
Fuel consumption (EPA): 6.3 / 10 l per 100 km
Volume of fuel tank: 55 l
Number of seats 5/7.
Drive front
Suspension
Front independent
Rear multi-profile
Auto gearbox. 5-stupas.
Dynamic characteristics
Maximum speed, km / h 185
Acceleration up to 100 km / h, from 9.9
Total information
Mass cutting. / Full, kg 1220/1705

Maximum volume: 1510 cm3.
The trunk of medium sizes. The opening is slightly clamped with lanterns. If desired, an excess couple of passengers will be located here.


VW Touran

Engine:
Working volume 1984 cm3,
Compression ratio 11.5: 1,
Max. Power 150 liters. with. at 6000 rpm,
Max. Moment 200 nm at 3500 rpm
Fuel consumption (EPA): 6.2 / 10.9 liters per 100 km
Volume of fuel tank: 60 l
Number of places 5.
Drive front
Suspension
Front multi-type
Rear multi-profile
Gearbox fur. 6-stupas.
Dynamic characteristics
Maximum speed, km / h 204
Acceleration up to 100 km / h, from 10.4
Total information
Mass cutting. / Full, kg 1450/2130

Maximum volume: 1990 cm3.
Under the floor of the championship trunk, a full-fledged third of the seats is hidden.


Citroen Xsara Picasso.
Engine:
Working volume 1997 cm3,
Compression ratio of 10.8: 1,
Max. Power 137 liters. with. at 6000 rpm,
Max. Moment 190 nm at 4100 rpm / min
Fuel consumption (EPA): 6.3 / 12.6 liters per 100 km
Volume of fuel tank: 60 l
Number of places 5.
Drive front
Suspension
Front independent
Rear independent
Gearbox fur. 4-stupas.
Dynamic characteristics
Maximum speed, km / h 192
Acceleration up to 100 km / h, from 10.9
Total information
Mass cutting. / Full, kg 1240/1790

Maximum volume: 1970 cm3.
Cargo compartment Citroen is somewhat trimmed by a lid by a lid. A set of fasteners for cargo also eats a noticeable part of the volume.


HOW DO THEY LOOK
Nikita Rozanov
 
Ford C-Max

The first show Paris 2002. The beginning of the production of 2003. Design under the leadership of Chris Bird (Chris Bird).
Toyota Corolla Verso.

The first display of 2001. Design under the leadership of Katsuo Morothamchi (Kazuo Morohoshi).
 
Volkswagen Touran.

The first show of Geneva 2003. Design under the leadership of Hartmut Warcus (Hartmut Warcus).
Citroen Xsara Picasso.

First display of 1998. Design under the leadership of Artur Blysley (Artur Blakesley).

OUTSIDE
The theory refers all participants in the dough to the category of minivans or compactnes. In practice, it is not difficult to notice that the third row of seats is not all, silhouettes, with the exception of Picasso and C-Max, are far from one-alone, but along the bus vertical rear wall body decorates only Touran. It seems that this style does not get worse. All of them are simply cute and cozy family wagons of high capacity and more comfortable landing. This feature of the layout and forms the brightest features of individuality. As usual, today their design is a moderate corporate with basic models: Ford Focus, Citroen XSara, Toyota Corolla and VW Golf. With the exception of Picasso, the style turned out to be more restrained than that of prototypes, but this is the status of the business and practical universal. Because of this, Touran and seems dry. The most balanced design of the C-MAX, and in comparison with it, Verso may seem slightly cleaning. The faces of each of the cars are recognizable in many ways to help large emblems. Exception Picasso. Silhouettes are more characteristic. Picasso is the most dynamic, sacrificing to this even the main advantage of the class large capacity for cargo is brought. Rear view is leading C-Max. Thanks to the light-raised lighting, he simultaneously resembles the Focus brother and looks very modern.
 
INSIDE
If not for centrally located appliances, the bus began to be more clearly overwhelming in the architecture of the Picasso instrument panel: the console sticks out a characteristic short beard and is not related to the floor tunnel overlay. A completely easy architecture of the Touran and C-Max panel, in comparison with them, Verso looks not defined, which is strengthened by a silver lining on the console, as if transferred from the sports coupe. The shape of the door panel is quite organic in all cars, and the infrastructure of the seat, containers, the most organic tables at Citroen. Handles, with the exception of Toyota, four-spokes and thanks to chubby pillows look very modern, and Ford is also very stylish.
SUMMARY
Each of the cars, with the exception of Picasso and, perhaps, Verso, the choice of those who prefer functionalism and utilitarianity to all other components of the car. The Frenchman and the Japanese stand out by another charm and even some outrage. Sometimes these properties (in contrast to car iron) are old not so fast ...
Ford Focus C-Max
Wheel base, mm 2640
Length, mm 4335
Width, mm 1825
Height, mm 1560
Clearance, mm 150

Ford owner of the most balanced appearance. There is not a single random item

All in the interior of Ford is understandable and logical. We want not mistaken

Wonderful seats with rich transformation capabilities

A good shield is such from which the readings are read without a stick. C-MAX is fully compliant.
 
Toyota Corolla Verso.
Wheel base, mm 2600
Length, mm 4260
Width, mm 1710
Height, mm 1610
Clearance, mm 145

Toyota has the largest rear doors and an unusual shape of a roof

Toyota demonstrates family features in the interior. Large metallic rectangle console focus

To the services of the rear rows of Toyota back-table

Despite the advertising attraction of the Toyotovsky shield, it is very convenient and unusually beautiful
 
VW Touran
Wheel base, mm 2775
Length, mm 4390
Width, mm 1795
Height, mm 1650
Clearance, mm 150

Volkswagen has the most pronounced division of volumes on the engine compartment and salon

Corporate style in every detail of the interior does not leave doubts about us one hundred percent folk car

In Turan, there is enough space for everyone. Rear even stroll can

Strict compliance with the Aryan spirit. Der Grosse Mashinen Cockpit
 
Citroen Xsara Picasso.
Wheel base, mm 2760
Length, mm 4275
Width, mm 1750
Height, mm 1635
Clearance, mm 150

The owner of the largest base and the aerodynamic body attracts attention to the almost symmetrical set of side windows and racks

Come to surprise, Citroen easily copes with this. However, the devices still want to see right at the rate

Soft seats of the second row is pretty, but a bit short

Citroen driver is quite free from pressing instrument. And really, where to rush?

Ford Focus C-Max

LIKED

Amazing steering wheel and as a detail of the interior, and as an organ. Obiability and predictability is determined by the chassis donor
 
DID NOT LIKE

One of the few details of Ford, to which the sound console box had to be used to, with invisible controls

Toyota Verso.

LIKED

Shining smooth blue lights for devices perfectly read in day and night. He is a born, but not annoying
 
DID NOT LIKE

It seems that Toyota designers have forgotten to leave a place for the silencer in the feed of the car. Tank and pipe noticeably perform

VW Touran

LIKED

Three stretching capacities from which are smaller for glasses. Their total volume is equal to some mustache
 
DID NOT LIKE
With all the wealth of imagination and the cavity of the views, we could not find flaws from Volkswagen

Citroen Picasso.

LIKED

Own transformable trolley for supermarkets is a comfortable thing, although it takes place in the trunk
 
DID NOT LIKE

The same trouble as Ford. Strongly overwhelmed sound joystick with crispy buttons and small symbols
 
Text Evgeny Hapov
Photo by Alexander Nozdrin
 

A source: Cars