More power for the Citroën C4: we test the 155 hp PureTech version with EAT8

It is the latest and most powerful version to reach the market, following the launch of the 100 and 130 hp PureTech variants, the 110 and 130 hp BlueHDi versions and the ë-C4 electric model with 136 hp and a 50 kWh battery. The C4 currently enjoys a privileged position in the Spanish market, ranking first among private buyers and second in its category.

The new Citroën C4 version is also based on the three-cylinder 1.2 PureTech petrol engine, which adds a good level of performance and dynamism to the C4. It is paired with the EAT8 Aisin gearbox with electric actuation system and delivers a highly pleasant driving experience, as gear changes are very smooth and progressive.

The boot offers a total of 380 litres and features a parcel shelf that can be fitted at two different heights. Access is good, as the tailgate swings up from a very high position and allows a wide loading opening.

A different look

As is well known, its silhouette, halfway between an SUV, a saloon and a coupé, offers a high ground clearance (156 mm), thanks to the fitment of 690 mm diameter wheels, mostly 18-inch, and a raised seating position of 1.22 metres above the ground.

It stands out for its smoothness and power delivery, offering a torque figure of 240 Nm at 1,750 rpm and a power output of 155 hp at 5,500 rpm. Thanks to these power and torque figures, it can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 208 km/h, while it claims a WLTP homologated consumption of 5.8 l/100 km and emissions of 131-145 g/km of CO₂.

The 1.2 PureTech Turbo engine features 121 new patents and uses direct petrol injection and a turbocharger with electronic boost pressure control, reaching up to 240,000 rpm. It has variable valve timing with four valves, a dedicated oil pump and reduced friction on pistons, piston rings and tappets. Unlike the less powerful versions, the 155 hp engine features a higher-flow turbo and a larger air intake diameter, specific injectors and spark plugs, as well as specific engine control unit software.

Very complete equipment

The new engine, offered from 27,720 euros, is available in Shine trim, the most complete in the range, which currently accounts for 42 percent of the model’s sales. It comes as standard with the most comprehensive driver assistance features, including speed limit sign recognition, lane departure warning, Active Safety Brake, driver attention alert, parking assistance system, recommended rest indicator, cruise control with stop&go function and blind spot monitoring.

Six connectivity technologies are available, including the 10-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone charging, the Connectedcam connected camera, the Connect Assist support system, the Connect Nav navigation system and the Connect Play smartphone connection system for Android and Apple.

This version features 18-inch Aeroblade diamond-cut alloy wheels, Metropolitan Grey interior ambience and Advanced Comfort seats with variable-density foam padding system. It also includes progressive hydraulic dampers as standard, which enhance dynamic behaviour and occupant comfort.

Among the optional equipment are the openable panoramic roof, the Park Assist system with 360º camera, Connected Cam and the Hifi Pack with 8-speaker audio and central subwoofer.

Regarding personalisation options, the Anodised Red, Sand or Gloss Black colour packs are offered, along with the Metropolitan Blue and Hype Black interior ambiences. The Made in Spain Pack is now available, which extends the warranty to three years or 100,000 km, includes Premium Assistance, the Citroën Peace of Mind feature, with the option of returning the car within six months or 10,000 km if exchanged for another Citroën, special launch conditions and specific financing.

Great comfort

The dampers fitted to all versions of the Citroën C4, except the base model, feature hydraulic rebound and compression stops, delivering great comfort, with smooth movements and excellent absorption of road irregularities. Overall, the suspension is soft and very comfortable, although slight longitudinal body movements are noticeable under acceleration and braking, which in this case are somewhat smoother than in the lower-powered versions thanks to a specific suspension calibration.

In other chassis areas, such as brakes or steering, there are no significant changes compared with other petrol versions, except for the weight, which is slightly higher in this version, fitted exclusively with the eight-speed automatic gearbox and top-of-the-range trim.

Nor are there particularly marked performance differences compared with the 130 hp variant, as the more powerful model reduces the 0 to 400 metre acceleration by 0.5 seconds, the 1,000 metres from a standing start by 1.3 seconds and the 0 to 100 km/h sprint by just 0.9 seconds, while the homologated consumption does increase by one litre more per 100 km. That said, the price difference for equivalent trim and equipment compared with the 130 hp variant is €1,450.