Citroen_Grand_C4_Picasso_Malaysia_002

The order books are open for the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso at all showrooms nationwide. As previously reported, the new Gallic seven-seat MPV is available in just one variant – a 2.0 BlueHDi – in limited numbers at an indicative pricing of RM195,000, which if past experience is any indication should include insurance. We're also told that units would be delivered in time for the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.

The sole powertrain on offer is a 2.0 litre four-cylinder turbodiesel, making 148 hp at 4,000 rpm and 370 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm. Mated to a regular six-speed automatic transmission (no ETG/EGS automated manual this time), it goes from 0-100 km/h in 10.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 207 km/h, while returning 4.6 litres per 100 km on a combined cycle and emitting 120 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

In what could be a first for our market, the Grand C4 Picasso is also fitted with AdBlue urea solution injection in the exhaust to lower the emission of harmful nitrogen oxides. However, as is usual for diesel cars in Malaysia, the particulate filter has been removed.

Our GC4Ps will come with a comprehensive list of equipment, including dual-zone automatic climate control up front with controls and air vents for the second and third rows, keyless entry and start, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system below an enormous 12-inch digital instrument cluster, navigation, a reverse camera, a panoramic roof, an electrically-powered tailgate and 18-inch wheels.

But wait, there's more – you also get a 360-degree surround view system, lane departure warning system, blind spot monitoring system and automatic parking. You even get a massage function for the driver and passenger seats, with an electrically-operated foot rest for the latter! Suddenly the steep price doesn't seem so bad, does it?

As for safety kit, the Grand C4 Picasso comes with six airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, traction control, stability control and four-wheel disc brakes. Four colours will be available locally – Noir Onyx (black), Blanc Banquise (white), Blue Teles and Rouge Babylone (red).