• New PureTech 130 option makes this an excellent all-rounder
• Launch-spec PureTech 82 will be dropped after four months
• We’ve yet to try the new Cactus in BlueHDi form

PSA’s PureTech turbocharged petrol in 110hp form is a great engine, with plenty of punch throughout the rev range, and its response is helped by the low kerb weight (from 1,008kg for the Puretech 82 and 1,070kg for the Puretech 110 EAT6 tested).

The PureTech 110 doesn’t sound its best in the Cactus, though. There’s a rough edge to its three-pot thrum, but it revs willingly and cleanly, and when mated to PSA’s six-speed EAT6 auto, it’s responsive and surprisingly nippy. Although the 0-62mph time of 9.9 seconds isn’t earth shattering, mid-range acceleration is excellent, which makes it very good at overtaking.

Those more concerned with economy than speed should look one space down the line-up, which is occupied by the naturally aspirated PureTech 82, which stays on sale in the UK until June 2018.

Driving the new PureTech 130 version

The PureTech 130 is a new addition to the Cactus range. It’s a more refined offering, with enough performance to keep the driver interested. The 0-62mph time is a sprightly 8.7 seconds, while maximum speed is 120mph. It’s the best of the range, especially as there seems to be little penalty at the pump, or at your tailpipe, with a combined fuel consumption figure of 58.9mpg and a CO2 rating of 110g/km.

On the road, this new engine option makes a big difference to the overall feel of the C4 Cactus. It’s smoother and more refined than the 110hp model, and is even more eager to accelerate, especially in the mid-range. In six-speed manual form, third and fourth will give you all the overtaking punch you need, and around town, it’s still happy to trickle around in first and second.

The clutch is light, and the gearchange is fingertip smooth, with a very positive action. It’s not a chore to choose this version over the EAT6 auto, which as stated above is a huge improvement over the old system used in the pre-facelift Cactus.

C4 Cactus: offered with one diesel engine

There is only one diesel engine confirmed for the UK. The BlueHDi 100 is capable of delivering more than 90mpg while emitting 80g/km of CO2, a remarkable performance.

• Light steering give it an unsporting feel
• Body roll and lots of movement on chellenging roads
• Tidy handling, and safe and secure at speed
  

Despite the soft ride, once you get used to the above-average lateral body movement, it does corner very effectively indeed. On long bends, it grips well and there’s plenty of mid-bend poise. The steering lacks feel and precision, but once you’re used to this, and the relatively slow lock, you’ll find it light and easy to drive.

It’s not sporting, but it is very capable. If you like a car that’s undemanding to drive, then step this way.