The Citroen C4 range has been freshened up. Updated styling identifies the new model, which goes on sale later this month with two new petrol engines.
Changes to the front-end are designed to echo the appearance of
the C5. It is much smoother and neater than before, with integrated chevrons and a trapezoidal air intake in the lower bumper. The three-door 'coupé' features subtly redesigned tail lights and three new alloy wheel designs are offered.
Inside, the rev counter has been moved to the instrument cluster in the centre of the dashboard. The navigation system has also been updated with the latest generation NaviDrive system. This features a seven-inch screen, real time traffic information and a music system with a 30Gb hard drive.
The two new petrol engines have been co-developed with BMW. Both units displace 1.6-litres and feature variable valve timing; the entry-level version puts out 118bhp while turbocharging ups power to 148bhp. The less powerful engine replaces the old 1.6i 16v 108bhp motor. On the combined cycle the manual C4 1.6 16V VTI returns 42.2mpg and the CO
2 emissions are 159g/km. Top speed is claimed to be 121mph and 0-62mph should take 10.0 seconds. This engine is also offered with an automatic transmission, which increases fuel consumption, CO
2 emissions and acceleration times a little and knocks a couple of mph off the top speed.
The more powerful, turbocharged engine with direct sequential fuel injection - both firsts for the C4 petrol - develops 177lb.ft of torque, delivered from 1,400 to 3,500rpm. At 40.9mpg and 164g/km it cannot match the less powerful engine's economy or CO
2 emissions but Citroen claims a top speed 10mph faster and 0-62mph acceleration 1.6 seconds swifter.
Drivers wanting to experience the 1.6 16V THP engine will have to choose the VTS coupé (which costs £17,495), as the engine is not offered in any other C4 model. The 1.6 16V VTi engine is available as a hatchback in SX, VTR+ or Exclusive trim and in the VTR and VTR+ C4 coupé. Starting price for the 118bhp C4 is £14,695. The facelifted C4 range will go on sale later this month and will be on display at the
Paris Show next month.
John Lambert - 16 Sep 2008