The Citroen C4 I Picasso 1.6 VTi (120 hp) represents a mid-cycle update to the first generation C4 Picasso, produced between 2010 and 2013. This variant occupied a key position in the C4 Picasso lineup, offering a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality for families. It was part of the broader C4 Picasso range built on the PSA Peugeot Citroën’s Platform 2 (also known as the 1HX0 platform), shared with models like the Peugeot 308. The Phase II refresh brought styling updates, improved interior materials, and refinements to the engine range, aiming to enhance the vehicle’s appeal in the competitive European MPV market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Picasso (Phase II, 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 186 km/h (115.58 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4250 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FS EP6C |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1591 kg (3507.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2215 kg (4883.24 lbs.) |
| Max load | 624 kg (1375.68 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 (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 | 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual 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 | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The C4 Picasso 1.6 VTi utilized the PSA 5FS EP6C engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is part of the Prince engine family, co-developed with BMW. It features a naturally aspirated configuration with multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized fuel efficiency and smooth operation over outright performance. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for everyday drivability, prioritizing fuel economy over sporty acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 VTi engine, paired with the 5-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 12.6 seconds, and top speed was approximately 115 mph. The engine felt relatively strained when fully loaded or climbing hills, requiring frequent downshifts to maintain speed. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter HDi diesel variants, the 1.6 VTi offered a less refined driving experience, with more noticeable engine noise and vibration. However, it provided a smoother and quieter ride than the base 1.4-liter petrol engine. The steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 VTi trim typically included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD stereo with auxiliary input, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as Exclusive, added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and wipers, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The C4 Picasso’s modular interior allowed for flexible seating configurations, with individual rear seats that could be folded flat or removed entirely to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Picasso featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, resulting in a slight degree of body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C4 Picasso 1.6 VTi was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable family vehicle. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked power, particularly when fully loaded. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6 VTi offered lower running costs in terms of fuel price, but higher maintenance costs due to the petrol engine’s more complex emissions control systems. The 1.6 VTi was positioned as an entry-level or mid-range option in the C4 Picasso lineup, appealing to buyers who prioritized affordability and fuel economy over performance.
Legacy
The 5FS EP6C engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with timing chain wear, particularly in higher-mileage examples. Regular oil changes and maintenance are crucial to prevent premature engine failure. The C4 Picasso 1.6 VTi remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a good balance of practicality, affordability, and fuel efficiency. Its spacious interior and comfortable ride make it a suitable option for families. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential timing chain issue and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained.
