The Citroen C4 II Hatchback, specifically the Phase II model produced between 2015 and 2018, represented a significant evolution of Citroen’s compact family car. Within the C4 II range, the 1.2 PureTech 130 horsepower (Hp) S&S Automatic variant occupied a mid-range position, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, performance, and comfort. This model was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and refined hatchback with the convenience of an automatic transmission. It built upon the foundation of the earlier C4 II (launched in 2010), incorporating styling updates and technological enhancements. The C4 II competed directly with vehicles like the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, and Peugeot 308 in the highly competitive European C-segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Hatchback (Phase II, 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 PureTech (130 Hp) S&S Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.1-6.2 l/100 km (38.6 – 37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2-4.4 l/100 km (56 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9-5.1 l/100 km (48 – 46.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 113-117 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9-11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9-11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| 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 | 1240 kg (2733.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 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 | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 variant is the 1.2-liter PureTech engine, specifically the HNY (EB2DTS) code. This engine is a three-cylinder, turbocharged gasoline engine featuring direct fuel injection. The PureTech engines were developed as part of PSA Peugeot Citroen’s push for downsized, efficient powerplants. The direct injection system, combined with the turbocharger and intercooler, allows for a good balance of power and fuel economy. The engine utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The Start & Stop system, denoted by the “S&S” in the model name, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and enhancing the driving experience. This transmission was chosen for its efficiency and responsiveness, catering to drivers who preferred the convenience of an automatic over a manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 PureTech 130 Hp Automatic C4 offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.4 seconds, and the top speed is approximately 122 mph. The automatic transmission contributes to a smooth and effortless drive, particularly in urban environments. Compared to the lower-powered 1.2 PureTech variants, this 130 Hp version offers noticeably more punch, especially when overtaking or merging onto highways. However, it doesn’t match the responsiveness of the more powerful petrol engines or the torque of the diesel options. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can sometimes feel slightly strained when accelerating hard. The C4’s suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 PureTech 130 Hp S&S Automatic typically came equipped with a good level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and electric windows. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as navigation, parking sensors, automatic headlights and wipers, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally of good quality, providing a comfortable and well-appointed cabin. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and a more advanced audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The C4’s chassis is designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, with minimal body roll in corners.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 II 1.2 PureTech 130 Hp Automatic was generally well-received by critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel a little underpowered at times, particularly when fully loaded. Compared to the 1.6 BlueHDi diesel variants, the PureTech offered a smoother and quieter driving experience but lacked the diesel’s superior fuel economy and low-end torque. Against competitors like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf, the C4 offered a distinctive design and a comfortable interior, but it didn’t quite match their overall driving dynamics.
Legacy
The 1.2 PureTech engine has proven to be a generally reliable powerplant, although some early versions experienced issues with the timing chain. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. In the used car market, the C4 II 1.2 PureTech 130 Hp Automatic represents a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and efficient hatchback at an affordable price. Its combination of practicality, refinement, and fuel economy makes it a popular choice for buyers seeking a well-rounded family car.
