The Citroën C4 Grand Picasso (Phase I), produced from 2006 to 2008, represented Citroën’s entry into the increasingly popular compact minivan (MPV) segment. The 2.0i 16V (140 hp) EGS variant occupied a mid-range position within the lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel economy, and practicality for families. This model was primarily aimed at the European market, where MPVs were highly sought after for their versatility and spacious interiors. It was part of the first generation of the C4 Picasso, internally designated as the 1HX series.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Grand Picasso (Phase I, 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i 16V (140 Hp) EGS |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.1 l/100 km (21.2 US mpg, 25.4 UK mpg, 9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp, 89.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 128.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RFJ EW10A |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2240 kg (4938.35 lbs.) |
| Max load | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 208 l (7.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1951 l (68.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4590 mm (180.71 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2100 mm (82.68 in.) |
| Height | 1660-1710 mm (65.35 – 67.32 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2728 mm (107.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Front overhang | 995 mm (39.17 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 867 mm (34.13 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.85 m (38.88 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission EGS |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 Grand Picasso variant is the EW10A engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated RFJ, produced 140 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. It featured a multi-port fuel injection system and a compression ratio of 10.8:1. The engine’s design prioritized smooth operation and reasonable fuel efficiency over outright performance. The EGS (Electronically Controlled Gearbox) transmission was a semi-automatic system, essentially a conventional manual gearbox with electronically controlled actuators for clutch operation and gear changes. It offered a degree of automation but lacked the smoothness of a traditional torque-converter automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i 16V EGS combination provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 12.6 seconds, and the top speed was 195 km/h (121 mph). The EGS transmission, while offering convenience, could sometimes exhibit jerky shifts, particularly at lower speeds. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the EGS suffered a slight performance penalty due to power losses within the transmission itself. It also wasn’t as refined as the higher-output 2.0L HDi diesel variants, which offered significantly more torque and better fuel economy. However, it provided a more accessible entry point into the Grand Picasso range for buyers prioritizing ease of use over dynamic driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i 16V EGS Grand Picasso typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an integrated audio system. Higher trim levels added options like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with the option of leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was functional and ergonomically designed, with a focus on practicality. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and side airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Grand Picasso utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, well-suited for family transportation. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision. The vehicle’s weight of approximately 1560 kg (3439 lbs) contributed to its stable handling characteristics, although it wasn’t particularly sporty.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0i 16V EGS Grand Picasso received mixed reviews. Critics praised its spacious interior, practicality, and comfortable ride. However, the EGS transmission was often criticized for its lack of smoothness and occasional jerky shifts. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, and the engine’s performance was adequate but not exceptional. Compared to the diesel variants, the petrol model offered lower running costs in terms of fuel but higher maintenance costs due to the more complex engine. It was generally seen as a good option for buyers who primarily used the vehicle for short to medium-distance journeys and prioritized comfort and convenience.
Legacy
The Citroën C4 Grand Picasso (Phase I) 2.0i 16V EGS has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, although the EGS transmission can be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Regular servicing and fluid changes are crucial for ensuring its longevity. In the used car market, this variant represents a relatively affordable entry point into the Grand Picasso range. While it may not offer the performance or refinement of higher-spec models, it remains a practical and spacious family vehicle.
