The Citroën C4 I Picasso (Phase II), specifically the 1.6 e-HDI variant produced between 2010 and 2013, represents a significant iteration of Citroën’s popular compact MPV. This version, equipped with a 112 horsepower diesel engine and an electronically controlled gearbox (EGS), aimed to balance fuel efficiency with practicality for family transport. It sat within the second phase of the first-generation C4 Picasso (codenamed B78), which benefited from styling and technological updates compared to the original model launched in 2006. The Phase II models, including this 1.6 e-HDI, were designed to appeal to a broader market seeking a comfortable and economical people carrier.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Picasso (Phase II, 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 e-HDI (112 Hp) EGS |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 130 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp, 74.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 180.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 112 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 9HR DV6C |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1499 kg (3304.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 561 kg (1236.79 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1070 kg (2358.95 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) | 11.3 m (37.07 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 | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 Picasso variant is the 9HR DV6C 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of the PSA Group’s (Peugeot Citroën) DV6 family, known for its robust design and fuel efficiency. The ‘e-HDI’ designation signifies the inclusion of Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) technology to meet Euro 5 emission standards. The engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine produces 112 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The EGS (Electronically Controlled Gearbox) transmission is a six-speed automated manual transmission. Unlike a traditional automatic with a torque converter, the EGS uses actuators to shift gears, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and convenience. It’s essentially a manual gearbox operated automatically.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 e-HDI with the EGS transmission delivers a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 13.9 seconds, and top speed is 112 mph. The EGS transmission, while improving fuel economy, can sometimes exhibit slightly jerky shifts, especially at lower speeds. The relatively low horsepower and high torque characteristics of the engine mean that the vehicle feels most at home during relaxed cruising. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration. Compared to higher-powered C4 Picasso variants, such as those with the 2.0-liter HDi engine, this version feels noticeably slower, but it compensates with significantly better fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 e-HDI typically came in mid-range trim levels, offering a good balance of features and affordability. Standard equipment often included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD stereo with MP3 compatibility, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and rain sensors, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for partial leather. The dashboard layout was characteristic of the C4 Picasso, featuring a minimalist design with a centrally mounted instrument cluster.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Picasso’s chassis 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, 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 safety during emergency braking. The weight distribution is fairly balanced, contributing to stable handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 e-HDI variant of the C4 Picasso was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It was seen as a sensible choice for families seeking a comfortable and economical MPV. Compared to the more powerful diesel options, it offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. Fuel economy figures of around 50 mpg (combined) were a major selling point. Reliability was generally good, although the EGS transmission was sometimes cited as a potential weak point, requiring careful maintenance.
Legacy
The 1.6 e-HDI engine and EGS transmission combination proved to be a popular choice in the C4 Picasso range. While the EGS transmission isn’t as smooth as a traditional automatic, its fuel efficiency made it attractive to buyers. Today, these vehicles are readily available on the used car market at affordable prices. The engine is known for its durability, but regular maintenance, including DPF regeneration and timely oil changes, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The C4 Picasso, in general, remains a practical and spacious MPV, and the 1.6 e-HDI variant continues to offer a compelling blend of economy and functionality.
