Citroen is to launch a new micro-hybrid system on the just revealed C3 Picasso. The system was previewed on the pearlescent white and orange C3 Picasso study at the Paris motorshow and will be offered in European in 2010, nearly a year after the launch of the vehicle. When the French say micro-hybrid system, what they actually mean is a new-generation Stop & Start system with a combined alternator-starter unit that allows the recovery of energy during braking and deceleration to recharge the vehicle’s battery without consuming fuel. Citroen claims that with this fairly simple system that will be available on both petrol and diesel models, the C3 Picasso can achieve a fuel economy of 4.0 lt/100km (58.3 mpg US or 70mpg UK) on the combined cycle as well as low CO2 emissions of just 110g/km. Continued

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Citroen has revealed further pictures of its subcompact minivan ahead of the C3 Picasso’s public debut in October at the Paris Motor Show. The funky 5-seater MPV that is based on the Peugeot 207 platform and mechanics, measures 4.08m long, 1.73m wide and 1.62m tall. As you’d expect from a Citroen MPV, the C3 Picasso’s interior is designed to maximize space and versatility.

Among other things, the C3 Picasso is equipped with split-folding rear seats that slide independently. When the driver needs extra storage space, the rear seats can be folded away while a mobile boot floor provides a level loading space up to the first row seat back. Moreover, the front passenger seat can also be folded completely flat to increase the load length and to create a table top.

The C3 Picasso will arrive in the European market during the first quarter of 2009 with a choice of two new-generation petrol units available – the 1.4-liter 95hp and 1.6-liter 120hp – as well as two diesels, the 1.6 HDi 90hp and 1.6 HDi 110hp.

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