The Citroën C4 II Hatchback, specifically the Phase II model produced between 2015 and 2018, represented a significant evolution of Citroën’s compact family car. Within the C4 II range, the 1.2 PureTech 130 S&S (Start & Stop) variant occupied a mid-range position, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, performance, and equipment. This model was primarily aimed at the European market, where compact hatchbacks are exceptionally popular, and sought to appeal to buyers looking for a modern, comfortable, and economical vehicle. It built upon the foundation of the first C4, moving towards a more refined and mainstream appeal while retaining Citroën’s commitment to comfort and innovative design.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Hatchback (Phase II, 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 PureTech (130 Hp) S&S |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.0-4.2 l/100 km (58.8 – 56 US mpg, 70.6 – 67.3 UK mpg, 25 – 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7-4.8 l/100 km (50 – 49 US mpg, 60.1 – 58.9 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 107-110 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 199 km/h (123.65 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 190.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HNY EB2DTS |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1790 kg (3946.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 585 kg (1289.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 408 l (14.41 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1183 l (41.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 55 kg (121.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 655 kg (1444.03 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4329 mm (170.43 in.) |
| Width | 1789 mm (70.43 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2050 mm (80.71 in.) |
| Height | 1498-1502 mm (58.98 – 59.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1522-1536 mm (59.92 – 60.47 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1515-1529 mm (59.65 – 60.2 in.) |
| Front overhang | 935 mm (36.81 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 786 mm (30.94 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 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, 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 | 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 variant is the 1.2-liter PureTech engine, specifically the HNY (EB2DTS) code. This engine is part of Peugeot-Citroën’s (PSA) PureTech family, known for its combination of direct injection, turbocharging, and advanced combustion technologies. The 1199cc inline-3 cylinder engine utilizes a single-scroll turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output to 130 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The direct injection system, coupled with a relatively high 11:1 compression ratio, contributes to both performance and fuel efficiency. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. The Start & Stop system, denoted by the “S&S” in the model name, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 PureTech 130 S&S offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-powered engine options available in the C4 II range. While not a sports-oriented engine, it provided sufficient power for everyday driving and comfortable highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 10.8 seconds. The turbocharger provides a good amount of low-end torque, making it responsive in urban environments. The 6-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more economical, but slower, 1.6L diesel variants, the 1.2 PureTech offered a more refined and responsive driving experience. However, it didn’t match the outright performance of the higher-spec petrol engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 PureTech 130 S&S typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as Exclusive or Shine, added features like alloy wheels, automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and modern, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup prioritized ride comfort, a hallmark of Citroën vehicles. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension was tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën C4 II 1.2 PureTech 130 S&S was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials weren’t as premium as those found in some competitors. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus, the C4 offered a more distinctive design and a greater emphasis on comfort. The 1.2 PureTech engine offered a good balance between performance and economy, making it a popular choice for buyers who didn’t require the outright power of larger engines.
Legacy
The 1.2 PureTech engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although early versions did experience some issues with timing chain wear. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections, is crucial for long-term reliability. On the used car market, the C4 II 1.2 PureTech 130 S&S represents a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and economical driving experience at an affordable price. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs continue to make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
