Twin Test – New Citroën C4 Picasso vs Volkswagen Golf SV – Brood brothers (Part 3)

What we’re looking for Volkswagen’s bigger, more practical Golf enters the five-seat family MPV fray

What will they cost you?

The C4 Picasso is a little cheaper for company car drivers, because its lower C02 output qualifies it for cheaper monthly tax bills; as a 40% rate taxpayer you'll need to fork out an extra $181 a year for the Golf SV.

The C4 Picasso is a little cheaper for company car drivers, because its lower C02 output qualifies it for cheaper monthly tax bills; as a 40% rate taxpayer you'll need to fork out an extra $181 a year for the Golf SV.

A generous amount of standard kit also works in the Citroën's favour. In fact, there's really no need to add any options at all because, in Exclusive+ trim, the C4 Picasso already gets luxuries such as massaging leather seats, a panoramic glass sunroof, powered tailgate, a self-parking system and sat-nav.

The Golf SV hardly scrimps on equipment either because, like the Citroën, it has climate control and satellite-navigation fitted as standard. However, leather seats cost more than $1,683 extra, while a sunroof adds $1,548.

The Golf SV hardly scrimps on equipment either because, like the Citroën, it has climate control and satellite-navigation fitted as standard. However, leather seats cost more than $1,683 extra, while a sunroof adds $1,548.

More important for private buyers, though, the VW’s stronger resale values mean that it will be worth more when the time comes to sell; it's predicted to hold on to $1,178 more of its value during the first three years. As for fuel economy, both cars managed an impressive 55mpg in our real-wo rid True MPG tests.

Both cars were awarded maximum five-star ratings from crash test body Euro NCAP and come with sophisticated driving aids including adaptive cruise control. The Golf SV also comes with blind spot sensors and automatic braking to help avoid collisions at low speeds, plus a driver-alert system, which makes a warning noise when it thinks you’re getting tired.

·         Plush materials and a high level of equipment make the C4 Picasso feel classy inside

·         Light fabrics and extended glass area help the SV feel airy inside compared to the hatch

·         Standard 5.8-Inch screen is responsive, and the shortcut buttons are clearly labelled

·         Citroën offers considerably more boot space; the well-designed load bay folds flat, which makes it really easy to load bulkier items

·         Front and rear passengers will have more room to stretch out in the Golf but its boot - while a decent size - can be difficult to rearrange

Our verdict

These two cars are very similar in purpose, but excel in very different areas. If you have a young family, the Citroen is the better choice, thanks to its more flexible cabin and enormous boot. However if you have older kids or regularly carry four adults,

The Golf SV is the one to go for. It has lots more room in the back than the Citroen, is much the better to drive and is the cheaper if you’re a private buyer. Couple that with its more comfortable ride and classier interior, and the VW just snatches the win.

VW Golf SV 2.0 TD1150 GT

·         For: Strong engine: loads of rear space; classy interior; great to drive

·         Against: Fiddly boot; no individual rear seats

·         Verdict: Better at carrying four adults, better to drive

Citroen C4 Picasso 2.0 Blue HDi 150 Exclusive*

·         For: Huge boot; flexible seating; generous amount of standard kit

·         Against: Unsettled ride; limited rear headroom

·         Verdict: Trumps the SV for boot space and use-ability