We review the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso from price to economy and all its features

NOW, I know what you’re thinking: “Oh no, I need an MPV. My life is over.”

Well, almost.

Except the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso is class – and for several reasons:

1. It looks tidy: Other MPVs (yes you, Seat Alhambra) look dull and boxy – but Citroen makes this seven-seat family chariot looks good. Check out those thin futuristic lights and that big chrome stroke down the sides.

2. It’s clever: Those easy-fold rear seats are a work of art (yes, really). There are more than 60 combinations. It’s also spacious and airy in the back (that big glasshouse stops kiddies feeling sick).

3. Happy kids: Dexter, Daisy and their playmates have picnic tables with reading lights, cargo nets, individual air con controls, sun blinds, wide opening doors and a flat floor for walking through. But MINUS one point for the middle-row 12v port. Er, hello? It’s 2016. We need USBs.

4. Happy parents: Big sofa-like massaging seats up front, TWO screens – one huge central display for driving info and a smaller 7in touchscreen, USBs, handy storage and a better view than a lighthouse. This updated version, on sale from today, also has radar-guided cruise control.

5. Cheap to run: Ford has the upper hand for driving prowess. But the Picasso is best-in-class for economy and emissions. Citroen quotes 74mpg for the 1.6-litre BlueHDi diesel and road tax is free with just 99g/km CO2. The entry 1.2-litre petrol has an official 56mpg, downhill on a breezy day.

6. Good value: At £21,935 (or £269 a month on finance), it’s £3,000 cheaper than the Alhambra and the S-Max – and £9,000 cheaper than the car you really want, the Discovery Sport. Yes, that’s an SUV but it’s also a 5+2 seater.

So, in a nutshell, the Grand C4 Picasso is stylish-ish, cheap to run and designed to work brilliantly for parents. It’s what the French do best. Très bien.

VERDICT: Big and clever. This MPV could be your MVP.