First look: Picasso's new loungeroom

JUST to prove it really does dance to the beat of a different drum, Citroen has used the Frankfurt motor show to reveal a new take on its C4 Picasso people-mover model – with fewer seats instead of more of them.

Yes, the quirky French brand has wheeled out a new flagship for its five-seat Picasso range, but this time with two leather-clad rear captain's chairs in place of the standard model's three-position rear bench.

Citroen Australia says it is examining the more upmarket Lounge version, but would only release it here once demand for the existing model has been satisfied. The company planned to sell 300 examples this year, but says it could easily sell 500.

At a staggering 95 per cent, the uptake of diesel power within the local Picasso range has also been "significantly higher than planned", said spokesman Edward Rowe.

When it goes on sale in Europe late this year (and in the UK in early 2008), the Lounge will be powered exclusively by a 100kW turbo-diesel engine, mated to either six-speed automatic or automated manual transmissions.

Of course, the fitment of two power-operated swivelling rear seats, with matching front seat upholstery, frees up more cargo space (a full 500 litres in this case), and 'piano finish' dash and door treatments further differentiate the Lounge.

Standard equipment also extends to a panoramic roof, tinted and laminated side windows, 18-inch polished chrome wheels and chromed rear 'Lounge' badging.