The fourth-generation Citroen C4 is a clear statement of intent from the French manufacturer. Rather than chasing the “sporty” trends that dominate the compact hatchback segment, Citroen has doubled down on its historical DNA: uncompromising ride comfort.
While it may lack the cutting-edge tech or premium materials found in some high-end rivals, the C4 distinguishes itself by being a practical, affordable, and exceptionally smooth cruiser for families.
Зміст
Driving Dynamics: Comfort Above All Else
If you are looking for a car to carve through mountain hairpins, you may find the C4 underwhelming. However, if your priority is a cabin that feels insulated from the chaos of city streets, the C4 is a class leader.
The “Magic Carpet” Experience
The standout feature is the Advanced Comfort suspension. Utilizing specialized “hydraulic cushions” (bump stops), the car excels at absorbing potholes and road imperfections. When paired with the highly rated “Advanced Comfort Seats,” the driving experience is remarkably cosseting, making it one of the most comfortable vehicles in its price bracket.
Powertrain Options
The lineup offers two primary paths:
– The Hybrid 145: Featuring a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, it produces 145bhp. It is the quicker option (0-62mph in 8.0 seconds) and is notably efficient, capable of up to 62.1mpg.
– The Petrol 130: A purely internal combustion 1.2-litre engine producing 129bhp. While slightly slower (0-62mph in 9.4 seconds), it remains a capable choice for traditional drivers.
Editor’s Note: While the hybrid system is efficient, the automatic transmission can feel “slushy” and occasionally unresponsive to steering wheel paddle shifts. Drivers seeking a more connected, tactile feel might miss the manual gearboxes found in older models.
Design and Interior: Bold Outside, Functional Inside
The C4’s exterior is its most striking attribute. Taking cues from the “Oli Concept,” the car features sharp, angular LED lighting and a distinctive, rigid bodywork that helps it stand out in a crowded market of rounded hatchbacks.
Cabin Quality and Tech
Inside, the C4 strikes a balance between practicality and budget-conscious design:
– Build Quality: The materials are more substantial than a Dacia but fall short of the premium feel found in a Peugeot 308. You will encounter some hard plastics on the dashboard, though key touchpoints like the leather steering wheel feel high-quality.
– User Interface: The 10-inch touchscreen is functional and easy to use, but the built-in navigation and infotainment software lack the polish of class-leading systems. Fortunately, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, offering a much smoother interface for most users.
– Ergonomics: Unlike many modern rivals that hide everything behind screens, Citroen has retained physical climate controls, allowing for safer, easier adjustments while driving.
Practicality: Space for the Modern Family
The C4 occupies a unique footprint—longer and wider than a Volkswagen Golf, placing it closer to a compact SUV in terms of presence.
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
- Roominess: The cabin is generous. Tall adults will find ample headroom and legroom, particularly in the rear, where space exceeds that of the VW Golf.
- Boot Space: The sloping, coupe-like roofline limits total volume, but at 380 litres, it remains more competitive than many rivals.
- Family Considerations: While the car is great for families, the Isofix points for child seats are tucked behind somewhat fiddly zipped covers, which may frustrate parents during installation.
The Bottom Line: Who is this car for?
The Citroen C4 is not a performance machine, nor is it a high-tech luxury showcase. Instead, it is a specialized tool for comfort. It is designed for the driver who spends significant time commuting or running errands in urban environments and wants a vehicle that minimizes the physical toll of the road.
Pros:
– Exceptional ride comfort and noise insulation.
– Distinctive, eye-catching exterior design.
– Efficient hybrid powertrain options.
Cons:
– Lacks driving engagement and “fun” factor.
– Infotainment software can be clunky.
– Depreciation rates are higher than some competitors like the Skoda Octavia.
Summary: The Citroen C4 is an ideal choice for families prioritizing a smooth, stress-free ride and value for money over sporty handling or cutting-edge digital integration.
