The American automotive market in early 2000 saw a boom in the popularity of pickups and SUVs. However, across the Atlantic, the compact MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) ruled the roads, with the Citroën Xsara Picasso being one of the most popular models. A rare find in a scrapyard in York, England, a 2006 model of the Picasso serves as a testament to the brand’s popularity and the shift in car trends over the years. For the article to follow, we delve deeper into the story of the Xsara Picasso, touching on its history, design, connection to artist Pablo Picasso, and even the role it played in the American entertainment landscape.
Citroëns in History
Citroën has a storied history dating back to its inception in 1918. Its last model sold in the United States was 51 years ago. It merged with Peugeot in 1974 and eventually became part of Stellantis Empire in 2021. The Citroën Xsara Picasso being one of the most popular MPV choices in Western Europe solidified the brand’s place in the international automotive market.
A Picasso Connection
An interesting point of note is the car’s link to the famous painter, Pablo Picasso. In 1989, Pablo’s son sold the rights to Citroën for $20 million, which the brand capitalized on. The brochures for the car heavily lean on this connection, creating a unique marketing narrative.
American Pop Culture Appearance
Though the Xsara Picasso never saw commercial success in the United States, it does have a unique spot in American pop culture. A model found in a brochure can be seen negotiating the Judge Harry Pregerson Interchange in Los Angeles, made famous in the 1994 film “Speed”.
Versatile Design
The 2006 Xsara Picasso boasted interior space that belied its under-3,000-pound weight. With the capacity to seat five, the car also offered airliner-style folding tables for rear-seat passengers and removable back seats to accommodate bulky cargo. The car, however, did not garner popularity in North America despite efforts by Japanese manufacturers to push this type of vehicle.
The Xsara Picasso’s Successor
The Xsara Picasso was replaced by the C4 Picasso, which eventually evolved into a crossover SUV that fits the American roads. This transition seems to reflect the European market’s eventual shift towards the SUV craze that took America by storm at the turn of the century. Interestingly, the Xsara Picasso was one of the first vehicles designed by Donato Coco, responsible for the design of many Citroën models and the styling of the Ferrari 458 Italia.