Citroen C4 Cactus (2014-2017) Review and Prices

Its main rivals are the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Suzuki SX4 S-Cross. More conventional looking SUVs such as the Skoda Yeti and Dacia Duster are also worthy alternatives.

The Cactus’s interior is equally unconventional as the exterior with designer details including leather straps instead of door handles and a digital display. There are lots of personalisation options, but this being a cheap crossover, there are still some hard plastics to be found. There is reasonable passenger space, although because the rear windows don’t wind down, some might find it a bit claustrophobic in the back on longer journeys.

Despite what the name suggests, the Cactus drives far from pin-sharp. However, it’s not bad to drive and the lightness of the car helps it feel nimble. Big bumps are hardly felt thanks to the soft suspension, but a fast series of corners can make the car feel a bit like a boat.

The Cactus can be equipped with a range of engines, but the 1.2-litre petrol that is both quick enough for city traffic and cheap to run makes the most sense. The diesels are very frugal, but only worth the premium if you travel long distance frequently.

Unsurprisingly, the best-equipped trim is the top of the range Flair – it comes with essential city driving kit such as sat nav and a reversing camera but makes the Cactus too pricey. However, many will find the basic Touch trim a bit too basic – it has cruise control, electric windows, DAB digital radio and remote central locking but no air conditioning so you’re better off going for the mid-range Feel trim.

The Cactus is a unique small crossover and a comfy ride

For its price, you need to approach the Cactus with managed expectations. Few in the class can match its eye-catching looks and the car’s paired down design has allowed the company to rein in running costs to be some of the best in class.

The driving experience might leave a little to be desired if you’re an enthusiast, but for most, the Citroen will be good enough, despite its noticeable body roll and light steering. What the Citroen is good at is being comfortable thanks to its soft suspension and an interior that’s stylish and spacious compared to a large part of rivals.

The Cactus may be a cheap-to-buy family car, but its exterior and interior styling make it feel genuinely special – for us that makes it one of the picks in a class not well known for its charisma.