The Citroen C4 I Picasso 2.0i 16V EGS, produced between 2007 and 2008, represents a mid-range offering within the first generation (Phase I) of Citroen’s popular compact minivan. Positioned as a more powerful alternative to the base 1.6-liter engine, and a more accessible option compared to the diesel variants, this model aimed to provide a balance of performance and fuel efficiency for family transport. It was a key component of Citroen’s strategy to offer a versatile and modern MPV in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Opel Zafira. The “Picasso” name denoted the more visually distinctive and family-oriented version of the C4, differing from the standard hatchback.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Picasso (Phase I, 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i 16V (140 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) | 11.1 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 | 10.8 kg/Hp, 92.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm, 132.4 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 | 1511 kg (3331.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max load | 529 kg (1166.25 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 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 | 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 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 | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 Picasso variant is the EW10A engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, designated RFJ, is a naturally aspirated unit producing 140 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a 10.8:1 compression ratio. The EW10A engine is known for its relative simplicity and durability, although it lacks the advanced technologies found in later engine designs. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with this engine is Citroen’s electronically controlled gearbox (EGS), a 6-speed automated manual transmission. This system uses actuators to shift gears, offering a degree of automation without the full complexity (and efficiency) of a traditional torque-converter automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i 16V EGS offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 1.6-liter C4 Picasso. While not a particularly sporty vehicle, the 140 hp engine provided adequate power for highway cruising and overtaking. The EGS transmission, however, was often criticized for its somewhat jerky and slow shifts, particularly compared to conventional automatics or manual transmissions. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and relaxed driving, rather than outright acceleration. 0-60 mph took around 12 seconds, and top speed was around 121 mph. Drivers often reported a slight delay in response when requesting a downshift, and the transmission could sometimes hunt for the correct gear, especially during uphill climbs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i 16V EGS trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an integrated audio system. Higher trim levels, often denoted by “Exclusive” or similar designations, added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on practicality and durability. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and leather seats.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Picasso featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride, although it wasn’t particularly engaging for enthusiastic drivers. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension was tuned to prioritize ride comfort and stability, rather than sharp handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0i 16V EGS C4 Picasso was generally well-received as a practical and spacious family vehicle. Critics praised its comfortable ride and generous interior space, but the EGS transmission was a common point of criticism. Compared to the 1.6-liter version, the 2.0i offered a significant performance boost, but at the cost of slightly reduced fuel economy. The diesel variants, while more expensive, offered superior fuel efficiency and torque. The EGS transmission was often seen as a compromise – offering the convenience of an automatic without the smoothness or efficiency of a traditional automatic or the engagement of a manual.
Legacy
The EW10A engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a relatively reliable unit, although regular maintenance is crucial. The EGS transmission, however, is known to be more prone to issues than conventional automatics, with potential problems including actuator failures and software glitches. Today, the C4 I Picasso 2.0i 16V EGS can be found as an affordable used family car. Its value is generally lower than comparable diesel models due to the perceived reliability concerns with the EGS transmission. However, for buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable MPV with a petrol engine, it remains a viable option, provided a thorough inspection of the transmission is undertaken before purchase.
