Used Citroen C3 Picasso for sale nationwide

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 56.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 150
Average Price: Around £4,600

Citroen C3 Picasso (2009-2017) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Good looking for a mini-MPV	Reliability can be an issue, especially with the diesels
Spacious and versatile interior	You'll be lucky to get near the official economy figures
Comfortable to travel in, easy to drive	The EGS gearbox is jerky

Quick Summary

The Citroen C3 Picasso (2009-2017) is a distinctive mini-MPV that leverages a tall, van-like body to maximise interior volume and offer class-leading cabin and boot space, despite its supermini-sized footprint. It's a masterpiece of packaging, easily transporting five adults and their luggage. The boot is larger than a VW Golf's, offering up to 500 litres with the sliding rear seat forward, and can accommodate items up to 2.41 metres long with the front passenger seat folded. While not dynamically thrilling, it's well-made, comfortable, and easy to drive, prioritising customer desires over sports car handling.

Engine options include feisty petrols like the 120bhp 1.6-litre and the efficient 1.2-litre Puretech, plus 1.6-litre HDi diesels. Trim levels range from VT to Exclusive, with higher trims offering air-conditioning, climate control, and parking sensors. Running costs are generally reasonable, with fixed-price servicing available. However, owners often report real-world fuel economy falling short of official figures, and reliability can be an issue, particularly with diesel models. Despite these caveats, the C3 Picasso offers excellent versatility, practicality, and individual style, making it ideal for families or retirees.

Best for: Families, retirees, or those seeking spacious, practical, and versatile transport with distinctive style and a comfortable, easy driving experience.

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising sporty driving dynamics, those strictly relying on official fuel economy figures, or those concerned about potential reliability issues, particularly with diesel models.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the C3 Picasso if: You're a family or retiree seeking spacious, practical, and versatile transport with distinctive style, and value a comfortable, easy driving experience.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise sporty driving dynamics, require strict adherence to official fuel economy figures, or are concerned about potential reliability issues, particularly with diesel models.

Competitive Position: The Citroen C3 Picasso (2009-2017) stands out in the mini-MPV segment for its exceptional packaging, offering class-leading interior and boot space within a compact footprint. It prioritises a comfortable, easy-going drive and distinctive style over sporty handling. While real-world fuel economy might disappoint some and diesel models have known reliability concerns, its versatility, practicality, and unique character make it an attractive option for families and those seeking a charismatic and spacious vehicle.

Read our full Citroen C3 Picasso Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.