The Citroën C4 I Picasso 1.8i 16V EGS, produced between 2007 and 2008, represents a specific configuration within the first generation (Phase I) of Citroën’s popular compact minivan. Positioned as a mid-range offering, this variant aimed to balance affordability with a reasonable level of equipment and performance for family transport. It was a key model in Citroën’s lineup during a period focused on modernizing their MPV offerings and competing with rivals like the Renault Scénic and Volkswagen Touran. The C4 Picasso, built on the PSA Group’s Platform 2 (shared with the Peugeot 308), prioritized interior space, modularity, and a distinctive, futuristic design.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Picasso (Phase I, 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8i 16V (125 Hp) EGS |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg, 25 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 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 | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp, 85 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.6 kg/Nm, 115.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 3750 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 6FY EW7A |
| Engine displacement | 1749 cm3 (106.73 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.7 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| 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 | 1470 kg (3240.8 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1734 l (61.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4470 mm (175.98 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2100 mm (82.68 in.) |
| Height | 1660-1680 mm (65.35 – 66.14 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 | 747 mm (29.41 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.33 m (37.17 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission EGS |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 Picasso variant is the 6FY (EW7A) 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, a staple in PSA Group vehicles of the era, features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The EW7A engine is known for its relatively smooth operation and decent mid-range power, though it lacks the outright performance of larger displacement engines. The engine produces 125 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque at 3,750 rpm. Paired with this engine is a 5-speed electronically controlled gearbox (EGS – Electronically Governed Sequential). This transmission is essentially an automated manual, using actuators to shift gears instead of a traditional torque converter. It offered a degree of convenience over a manual transmission but wasn’t as smooth or refined as a conventional automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8i 16V EGS C4 Picasso delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.7 seconds, and top speed is approximately 115 mph. The EGS transmission, while offering automatic operation, can exhibit noticeable shifts and a slight hesitation, particularly during quick acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the EGS feels slightly less responsive. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and everyday drivability rather than sporty performance. The engine provides sufficient power for highway cruising and city driving, but overtaking maneuvers require planning. Compared to the more powerful 2.0L petrol or 1.6L and 2.0L HDi diesel variants, this 1.8L automatic is the least performance-oriented option.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8i 16V EGS trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an integrated audio system. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Higher trim levels, such as the Exclusive, added features like alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, a multi-function steering wheel, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for partial leather. The dashboard layout is characterized by its futuristic design, with a centrally mounted instrument cluster and a flowing console.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Picasso utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C4 Picasso 1.8i 16V EGS was generally well-received as a practical and comfortable family vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, innovative design, and comfortable ride. However, the EGS transmission received mixed reviews, with some finding it jerky and unrefined. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, with combined figures around 35 mpg (UK). Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.8L petrol engine offered lower fuel efficiency but a quieter and smoother driving experience. The diesel models were favored by those prioritizing fuel economy and long-distance cruising.
Legacy
The 6FY (EW7A) 1.8L engine and EGS transmission combination, while not known for exceptional reliability, generally proved durable with regular maintenance. Common issues include occasional transmission glitches and potential for oil leaks as the engine ages. Today, the C4 Picasso 1.8i 16V EGS can be found as an affordable used car option. Its relatively simple mechanicals make it easier and cheaper to maintain compared to more complex modern vehicles. However, potential buyers should be aware of the EGS transmission’s quirks and ensure it has been properly serviced. The C4 Picasso, in general, established Citroën as a leader in the compact MPV segment, paving the way for subsequent generations of the model.
