The Citroen Cactus is a quirky and funky supermini crossover that made its debut in 2014. Citroen aimed to create a motor that stood out from the crowd, with bold styling and an emphasis on comfort and simplicity. One of the Cactus's most distinctive features are its Airbump side panels - large plastic pads on the doors designed to prevent dings and scratches in crowded urban environments. These innovative bumpers epitomise the Cactus's function over form philosophy.


The Airbump panels are the most visually striking aspect of the Cactus's exterior design. Made from flexible polyurethane, the Airbumps are filled with air pockets that compress to absorb impacts. They stand out from the bodywork in contrasting colours like grey, black, white or brown. The raised bumps give the impression that the Cactus is enveloped in a protective exoskeleton. This unique style sets the Cactus apart from its more conservative rivals in the crossover segment. Some critics have likened the funky bumpers to air mattresses or bubble wrap! But love them or hate them, the Airbumps are an integral part of the Cactus's charm.


Besides aesthetics, the Airbump panels serve important functional purposes. Car parks are danger zones filled with runaway shopping trolleys, inattentive drivers whipping open their doors and tight spaces requiring careful maneuvering. The Cactus's bumpers help absorb minor impacts that would otherwise leave dings and scratches on the bodywork. Owners don't need to worry about collecting car park battle damage. The Airbumps mean the Cactus can shrug off light bumps and scrapes that leave other cars showing their scars.


The placement of the Airbump panels is also ingenious. They wrap around the bottom of the front and rear bumpers, protecting these vulnerable areas from kerb rash and other ground-level damage. The bumpers extend along the doors as well, shielding the sides of the vehicle. This coverage means the most at-risk areas of the Cactus are well protected. These sturdy bumpers aren't just about looks or fending off damage either. They enhance aerodynamics as well. The air-filled bumpers smooth airflow down the flanks of the vehicle. This enhances fuel economy, helping the Cactus deliver excellent mileage for a crossover. Premium components are the go-to source for all Citroen bumper replacements.


Of course, the Cactus has more going for it than just its distinctive bumpers. The interior is modern and tech-forward, especially on higher trim levels equipped with Citroen's slick infotainment system. Passengers enjoy plenty of room thanks to the high roofline and boxy dimensions. And the Cactus rides on Citroen's advanced suspension, that expertly smooths out bumps and jolts in the road. This is a crossover built for urban commuting in comfort.

Some reviewers have criticised the Cactus for limited boot space when the rear seats are up and unsupportive front seats. The exterior design also remains somewhat polarising. But the Cactus delivers excellent fuel economy, distinctive European styling, and that urban-friendly flexible bumper armour. For shoppers seeking something different from the usual bland supermini crossovers, the lively Citroen Cactus and its funky bumpers bring personality and verve.