Both models are hugely...

Both models are hugely significant to their respective makers, and while VW already has its larger Touran in showrooms, Citroen won"t miss out on sales to buyers who need extra carrying ability - it"s planning a long-wheelbase version of the Picasso.

The French company is an old hand at MPV design, and our main picture shows it hasn"t lost its touch. Based on information sourced from deep within the company, the image reveals how the angular lines of the Ford Focus-rivalling C4 - seen in issue 816 - have been transferred to provide MPV practicality.

The new Picasso shares the C4"s chassis, and will feature the innovations showcased on the hatchback. Drivers will sit behind a futuristic dashboard with a fixed-hub, multi-function steering wheel - but the key selling points are at the rear of the cabin.

Even the short-wheelbase five-seat version will boast impressive versatility, with folding seats and plenty of family friendly storage space. However, buyers will have a long wait for the car, as continuing strong sales of the current Picasso have delayed the arrival of its replacement until 2006. That gives VW a head-start in reining in the success of cars such as the Ford Focus C-MAX and Renault Scenic when its Golf+ goes on sale in the UK next summer.

The new model will be offered in addition to the seven-seat Touran and Golf hatch. Unlike in previous generations of the Golf, there will be no estate variant, but VW insists the Golf+ is not a direct replacement for the load-lugger - rather, it will be marketed as a baby Touran.

A spokesman for the company explained: "The Golf+ is taller than the hatchback. It features three individually moving rear seats, and is intended for buyers who want extra practicality without going down the full MPV route."

The mag"s exclusive images show designers were careful to make the new model look as car-like as possible. It is less boxy than the Touran, with styling closer to that of the SEAT Altea, which shares the Golf platform.

The Golf+ will be joined by a four-door Bora at the end of 2005 and a larger four-seater Golf cabrio in 2006. However, VW"s popular hatch is also expected to form the basis of a soft-road, all-wheel-drive variant, which is likely to be called the Marrakesh. Although official details are still being kept under wraps, the new 4x4 isn"t due to break cover for at least another two years.