The Citroen C4 I Picasso 2.0 HDi 136 Automatic, produced between 2007 and 2010, represents a significant offering within the first generation (Phase I) of Citroen’s popular compact minivan. Positioned as a mid-range to upper-mid-range trim level, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and a more refined driving experience compared to lower-spec models. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where the compact MPV segment was – and remains – highly competitive. The C4 Picasso, built on the PSA Group’s Platform 2 (shared with the Peugeot 308), sought to redefine the family vehicle with its distinctive styling and focus on interior space and modularity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Picasso (Phase I, 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 HDi (136 Hp) FAP Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 195 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 164.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 2000 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RHR DW10BTED4 |
| 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 | 17.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.25 l (5.55 US qt | 4.62 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1640 kg (3615.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 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) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| 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 (turning diameter) | 11.33 m (37.17 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 |
| 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 | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 Picasso variant is the DW10BTED4 engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, commonly found in PSA Group vehicles of the era, utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The ‘RHR’ engine code specifically denotes a version equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), or FAP in French (Filtre à Particules), designed to reduce particulate matter emissions and meet Euro 4 standards. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design per cylinder bank (DOHC overall) and a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque. The automatic transmission is a six-speed unit, providing smooth gear changes and contributing to relaxed cruising. This transmission was designed to handle the engine’s 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque, available from just 2000 rpm.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 HDi 136 Automatic C4 Picasso offers a comfortable and practical driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.5-12.1 seconds, which is typical for a vehicle of this class and configuration. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration or overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. The focus is on providing a relaxed and refined ride, making it well-suited for long journeys with a full load of passengers and luggage.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 HDi 136 Automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an integrated audio system. Higher-spec versions often added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather available at an extra cost. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Picasso features 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 surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 Picasso 2.0 HDi 136 Automatic was generally well-received by critics for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted the automatic transmission could be slow to respond at times. Compared to the 1.6 HDi versions, the 2.0-liter engine offered significantly more power and torque, making it a better choice for those who frequently carry passengers or travel long distances. The 2.0 HDi also offered a more refined driving experience than the petrol-powered variants. Fuel economy was a strong point, averaging around 31.8 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The DW10BTED4 engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the DPF system. Blocked DPFs can be a common issue if the vehicle is primarily used for short journeys. The automatic transmission, if properly maintained with regular fluid changes, is also generally durable. Today, the C4 Picasso 2.0 HDi 136 Automatic can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. It remains a practical and comfortable family vehicle, offering a good balance of space, fuel efficiency, and reliability, provided it has been well-maintained.
