Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Xsara |
| Generation | Xsara Picasso (N68, Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 16V (136 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2004 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.6 l/100 km (18.7 US mpg, 22.4 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 205 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm, 143.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4100 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RFN EW10J4 |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1326 kg (2923.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1832 kg (4038.87 lbs.) |
| Max load | 506 kg (1115.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2128 l (75.15 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 700 kg (1543.24 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4276 mm (168.35 in.) |
| Width | 1751 mm (68.94 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2000 mm (78.74 in.) |
| Height | 1637 mm (64.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1434 mm (56.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Front overhang | 838 mm (32.99 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 678 mm (26.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent suspension, longitudinal arms with transverse torsion shafts |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
The Citroen Xsara Picasso (N68, Phase II) 2.0 16V Automatic, produced between February 2004 and 2006, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the popular first-generation Picasso. This variant occupied a mid-to-upper position within the Xsara Picasso range, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and performance geared towards families and those seeking a more refined driving experience. It was part of the N68 series, a facelift of the original N68 Picasso launched in 1999, and built on the PSA Group’s platform, shared with the Peugeot 307. The Phase II updates included minor cosmetic changes and refinements to the interior and available equipment.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Xsara Picasso variant is the RFN (EW10J4) 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit, meaning it doesn’t utilize a turbocharger or supercharger. It features a 10.8:1 compression ratio and utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system. The 16 valves (four per cylinder) contribute to its breathing efficiency. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, which was a common choice for drivers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. This transmission, while reliable, is not known for its particularly quick shifts or fuel efficiency compared to more modern automatic gearboxes.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 16V Automatic Xsara Picasso offers a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 11.9 seconds. However, it’s noticeably slower than the manual transmission versions or those equipped with the more powerful engines available in the range. The four-speed automatic transmission contributes to this, as it lacks the closer gear ratios of a five or six-speed unit. The torque converter can also introduce some ‘slippage’, reducing the amount of engine power that reaches the wheels. The emphasis is on smooth cruising and ease of driving, making it well-suited for urban environments and long journeys where outright speed isn’t a priority. The steering is light and precise, and the suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 16V Automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an RDS radio. Higher-spec versions could be equipped with options like alloy wheels, a sunroof, rear parking sensors, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for partial leather. The dashboard layout is functional and user-friendly, with logically placed controls. The Picasso’s modular interior design allowed for flexible seating arrangements, with the rear seats capable of folding flat or being removed entirely to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The Xsara Picasso utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing good handling and ride comfort. The rear suspension employs a semi-independent torsion beam arrangement, which is a cost-effective solution that still offers reasonable levels of comfort and stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering is rack and pinion, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 16V Automatic Xsara Picasso was generally well-received by critics as a practical and comfortable family vehicle. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its lack of responsiveness and its impact on fuel economy. Compared to the 1.8-liter versions, the 2.0-liter offered noticeably more power and torque, making it more suitable for carrying passengers and luggage. The 2.0 HDi diesel variants were even more popular, offering superior fuel economy and strong low-end torque. The petrol 2.0L was often seen as a compromise, offering a smoother and quieter engine than the diesels, but at the cost of fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The RFN engine, while generally reliable, can be prone to issues such as oil leaks and timing belt failures if not properly maintained. The automatic transmission, while durable, may require servicing or rebuilding at higher mileages. Today, the 2.0 16V Automatic Xsara Picasso can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. It remains a practical and spacious vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with its age and mileage. Its spacious interior and flexible seating arrangements continue to appeal to families, and its relatively simple mechanical design makes it a viable option for those seeking a reliable and affordable MPV.
