The Citroen C4 II Picasso 1.2 PureTech 131 S&S, produced between 2016 and 2018, represents a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation C4 Picasso (internally known as the B78). This variant occupied a key position in the C4 Picasso lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, performance, and affordability. Positioned as a mainstream option, it aimed to appeal to families seeking a practical and economical MPV. The Phase II update brought styling revisions, enhanced technology, and refinements to the powertrain, solidifying the C4 Picasso’s presence in the competitive European minivan segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Picasso (Phase II, 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 PureTech (131 Hp) S&S |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 115-116 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 179.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 131 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 109.3 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1280 kg (2821.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1905 kg (4199.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 625 kg (1377.89 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 630 l (22.25 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1851 l (65.37 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1270 kg (2799.87 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Length | 4438 mm (174.72 in.) |
| Width | 1826 mm (71.89 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1971 mm (77.6 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2117 mm (83.35 in.) |
| Height | 1610-1625 mm (63.39 – 63.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2785 mm (109.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1573-1587 mm (61.93 – 62.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1576-1590 mm (62.05 – 62.6 in.) |
| Front overhang | 889 mm (35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 764 mm (30.08 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 Picasso variant is the 1.2-liter PureTech engine, specifically the HNY (EB2DTS) code. This is a three-cylinder, turbocharged gasoline engine, part of Peugeot-Citroen’s (PSA) PureTech family. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection, a key technology for improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a boost in power and torque, mitigating the typical performance limitations of a small-displacement engine. The engine’s 1199cc displacement delivers 131 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this trim level. The Start & Stop system further enhances fuel economy by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 PureTech 131 hp engine provides adequate performance for everyday driving. While not particularly sporty, it offers sufficient power for highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in acceleration, but the engine can feel slightly strained when fully loaded or climbing steep hills. The 6-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering smooth gear changes and a reasonable spread of ratios. Compared to higher-output versions of the C4 Picasso, such as those with diesel engines, this variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. The lighter engine weight compared to the diesel options contributes to slightly more agile handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 PureTech 131 S&S trim typically included a good level of standard equipment. This generally encompassed features like air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and power windows. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered options like navigation, panoramic sunroof, parking sensors, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on practicality and durability. The dashboard layout was clean and functional, with intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Picasso utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Electric power steering offers light and precise steering feel. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth and relaxed driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 Picasso 1.2 PureTech 131 S&S was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded. Compared to the diesel variants, the PureTech engine offered lower running costs but slightly reduced performance. Against competitors like the Renault Scenic and Volkswagen Touran, the C4 Picasso stood out for its distinctive styling and comfortable interior. Fuel economy figures were competitive within its class, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Legacy
The 1.2 PureTech engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although early versions were subject to some issues with the timing chain. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and adherence to service intervals, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. In the used car market, the C4 Picasso 1.2 PureTech 131 S&S represents a good value proposition, offering a practical and economical MPV at an affordable price. Its combination of fuel efficiency, spaciousness, and comfortable ride continues to appeal to families seeking a versatile vehicle.
