Citroen is a brand that isn’t frightened to do things differently, and that’s been seen plenty in recent years, especially with the firm’s SUVs – the C3 Aircross and C5 Aircross.
And that looks to be showing no signs of slowing, with the introduction of the new C4 – a funky new hatchback that offers more rugged-like styling than its rivals. It’s also available as an electric model – a current rarity in the family hatchback class – and puts a special emphasis on comfort, an area where this Citroen truly excels.
But if you’re looking at a new Citroen C4, what do you need to know? Here’s our buyer’s guide to this cool new model.
What powertrains are available?
Choice is key on the new C4, with buyers able to choose from an EV, petrol and diesel.
Let’s kick off with arguably the most important of the lot – the electric e-C4. Powered by an 100kW electric motor producing 134bhp and 300Nm of torque, it allows this model to accelerate from 0-60mph in 8.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 90mph. A 50kWh battery pack also allows for an impressive electric range of 217 miles, while 100kW rapid charging capability means the battery can be topped up to 80 per cent in as little as 30 minutes.
Up next are the petrol options, with a turbocharged 1.2-litre PureTech unit available with either 128bhp, and having the choice of both a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. This is a good all-rounder, returning 52.3mpg, yet at the same time being able to get to 60mph in 8.9 seconds. You can also get this engine in a more powerful 153bhp guise, where it comes exclusively with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Though diesel options may have fallen out of favour with buyers in this class, Citroen still offers a 128bhp 1.5-litre unit for those doing plenty of miles a year and looking to keep running costs down. It’s just offered with an automatic transmission, and is able to return an impressive 62.8mpg.
What trim levels are offered?
A choice of four grades are available on the C4 – Sense, Sense Plus, Shine and Shine Plus. Equipment highlights and pricing are as follows.
Sense – from £21,005
All C4 models get a generous amount of standard kit, including 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, rear parking sensors, a 5.5-inch digital dial system and impressive 10-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In terms of safety kit, all C3s come with autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist and a driver attention monitoring system.
Sense Plus – from £23,005
Upgrading to Sense Plus, which is the entry-level grade for the e-C4, brings a reversing camera, electric folding mirrors, LED interior lighting, satellite navigation, a head-up display and enhanced connected services.
Shine – from £24,005
Shine gets a range of extra kit, including keyless entry, dark 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome styling accents and tinted rear windows. A range of additional driver assistance technology is also included, such as high beam assist, front parking sensors, adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring.
Shine Plus – from £26,005
Right at the top of the range, the Shine Plus features a black leather interior, electric and heated front seats, a wireless smartphone charging pad and an upgraded sound system.
What about personalisation?
Citroens are renowned for being easy to customise, and the C4 is no exception. For starters, there’s a bold colour selection available – including Elixir Red, Caramel Brown and Iceland Blue, while a range of colour packs are available, which brings a different shade for the airbumps that run along the doors and around the fog lights.
A range of conventional options are available, too, including a panoramic sunroof, massaging front seats and integrated dash cam.
Enquire on a new Citroen C4
