The Citroen C4 II Hatchback, specifically the 1.6 BlueHDi 120 S&S variant produced between 2015 and 2018, represents a significant iteration of Citroen’s compact family car. This model falls within the second generation of the C4 (B7 platform), introduced in 2010, and benefits from the Phase II facelift implemented in 2015. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C4 lineup, the 1.6 BlueHDi 120 S&S aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and economical hatchback. It was a key model for Citroen in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Hatchback (Phase II, 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 BlueHDi (120 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) | 4.2-4.4 l/100 km (56 – 53.5 US mpg, 67.3 – 64.2 UK mpg, 23.8 – 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3-3.5 l/100 km (71.3 – 67.2 US mpg, 85.6 – 80.7 UK mpg, 30.3 – 28.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.6-3.8 l/100 km (65.3 – 61.9 US mpg, 78.5 – 74.3 UK mpg, 27.8 – 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 95-100 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6-11.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6-11.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 234.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BHZ DV6FC |
| 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1280 kg (2821.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 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) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 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 | 675 kg (1488.12 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels. |
| 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 the C4 II 1.6 BlueHDi 120 S&S is the DV6FC engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine, identified by the code BHZ, is part of the PSA Group’s (Peugeot Citroen) BlueHDi family, known for its focus on reducing NOx emissions. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve efficiency. The engine features 16 valves (four per cylinder) and a compression ratio of 16:1. The ‘S&S’ designation indicates the inclusion of a Start & Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to conserve fuel. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque offered by the 1.6 BlueHDi engine provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 10.6-11.0 seconds. While not a particularly sporty configuration, the engine delivered strong low-end torque, making it well-suited for overtaking and navigating urban environments. Compared to the more powerful 150 hp BlueHDi variant, the 120 hp version felt less responsive, particularly at higher speeds. However, the manual transmission allowed for greater driver engagement and control compared to the optional automatic gearbox available on some trims. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, with a relatively long final drive.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C4 II 1.6 BlueHDi 120 S&S typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as Exclusive or Shine, added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and wipers, a touchscreen infotainment system, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. 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 provided a comfortable ride quality, 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. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 II 1.6 BlueHDi 120 S&S was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 150 hp BlueHDi variant, the 120 hp version offered better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. The 1.6 BlueHDi engine proved to be relatively reliable, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), particularly on vehicles primarily used for short journeys.
Legacy
The 1.6 BlueHDi engine became a mainstay in the PSA Group’s lineup, powering numerous models across the Peugeot, Citroen, and DS brands. The C4 II 1.6 BlueHDi 120 S&S remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a compelling combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability. While the DPF can be a potential maintenance concern, regular servicing and occasional longer journeys can help to mitigate this risk. The engine’s robust design and relatively simple construction contribute to its long-term reliability, making it a sensible option for budget-conscious buyers.
