Climb inside and the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso interior is an example of modernity. The most obvious deviation from mainstream thinking are the two large screens.

With high definition clarity the 12-inch upper screen provides essential information such as speed and fuel levels, with a side panel that can display optional sat-nav maps, trip computer details and even uploaded photographs. On Exclusive trims, this display can be altered to one of three settings, including one with an analogue-style dial.

Below is the seven-inch touch screen, working rather like a small tablet computer. It’s bordered by touch-sensitive buttons which bring different menus on screen for controlling the internal temperature, sat-nav, music and other peripheral functions.

It works well when you get used to it but additional separate controls, for instance to control the heating and ventilation, would be welcome.

While the main dashboard is modern and minimalist, the steering wheel is a button-fest, with four separate sections each with conventional push buttons and rolling switches. Again, once you’re used to their locations, they work well and all can be reached with a sweep of the driver’s thumbs.

It’s a striking looking dashboard, more so on Exclusive trims with a two-tone element to the interior, with a grade of plastic and overall build quality that’s a step above what many will expect from Citroen. Everything feels like it stands a good chance of remaining attached despite a life of hard use ahead of it.

Opt for the glazed roof and the Picasso has over 5.7 square metres of window area, making the cabin feel light and airy. Forward visibility in particular is excellent with a deep windscreen that reaches as far back as the front passengers’ heads and slender pillars framing the side windows ahead of the front doors.

Citroen Grand C4 Picasso comfort levels are one of the car’s major fortes. Front seats in particular are seriously supportive, regardless of the trim level and seat material.

Middle row passengers can slide their three individual seats backwards and forwards, as well as reclining the backrests. Aircraft style tables are fitted to the backs of the front seats, with adjustable air vents built into the central pillars.

At the rear, a pair of seats fold up from the floor with ease but are better suited to adults no larger than of average height. Accessing the back row is easy due to a clever folding mechanism on the middle row chairs. Additional reading lights and air vents in the roof further aid the comfort and convenience of those at the back.

Citroen has rethought its rear suspension arrangement and is now even more tuned for ride comfort than before. Combined with the longer wheelbase and impressive isolation from road, wind and engine noise, there’s a serenity about the Grand C4 Picasso’s cabin normally associated with larger, expensive cars.