Citroen C4 Cactus from $27K

Citroen's C4 Cactus compact SUV has a funny name, daring visuals, is offered with 23,184 colour variations, comes with 'air bump' strips to soften slow-speed hits and will arrive Down Under next February.

When it does, pricing will start from $26,990 for the six-speed manual transmission version fitted with a three-cylinder turbo-petrol 1.2-litre engine delivering 81kW and 205Nm.

If you want an automatic transmission, you'll have to fork out $29,990 for a six-speed semi-automatic gearbox – but it's only paired with a 68kW/230Nm turbo-diesel engine.

The Australian launch of the Jeep Renegade rival has been delayed due to a child-seat top-tether issue, but Citroen is confident it will bring new customers to the brand.

Indeed, the importer has already sold a quarter of the first shipment of vehicles, all off which come with several unorthodox standard features. These include the trademark 'air bump' strips on the doors to add extra protection against minor bumps and scrapes, ultra-wide 'sofa style' front seats and more than 20,000 colour/trim combinations.

Conventional standard features include a 7.0-inch touch-screen infotainment system, reversing camera, rear parking sensors, digital radio tuned with six-speaker ARKAMYS stereo, air-conditioning, 17-inch alloy wheels, six airbags, electric front windows and pop-out rear windows.

The more expensive automatic (diesel) models add paddle shifters on the steering wheels, a stylised park brake and a bench seat with arm rest.

Extra cost options comprise items such as a panoramic sunroof, coloured air bump strips, roof rails, and different wheels.

Citroen Australia general manager John Startari said the "standout design, innovative features, generous specification and sharp pricing" will ensure the C4 Cactus' gets noticed in the booming compact SUV segment.

"In a market full of same-same styling the C4 Cactus gives customers the opportunity to make a statement and it is one we believe will resonate with Australians," he said.

"Paired with Citroen's leading six-year warranty, capped-price servicing and roadside assist program, the Cactus is a vehicle that will appeal to the heart and the head," said Startari.