The Citroen C4 II Picasso 1.6 BlueHDi 99 S&S, produced between 2016 and 2018, represents a mid-life refresh of the second-generation C4 Picasso, a compact minivan (MPV) designed to appeal to families. This particular variant, powered by the PSA Group’s 1.6-liter BlueHDi diesel engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission, occupied the lower-mid range of the C4 Picasso lineup, prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability. It was positioned below the more powerful diesel options and the petrol-powered variants, targeting buyers seeking a practical and economical family vehicle. The Phase II update brought styling revisions, improved interior materials, and updated technology, enhancing the C4 Picasso’s competitiveness in the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Picasso (Phase II, 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 BlueHDi (99 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) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.5 l/100 km (67.2 US mpg, 80.7 UK mpg, 28.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 100 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 176 km/h (109.36 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp, 76.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 99 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 254 Nm @ 1750 rpm (187.34 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BHY DV6FD |
| 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) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1296 kg (2857.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1950 kg (4299.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 654 kg (1441.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 630 l (22.25 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1851 l (65.37 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 645 kg (1421.98 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 | 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 |
| 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 PSA Group’s 1.6-liter BlueHDi engine, specifically the BHY DV6FD variant. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline diesel engine featuring common-rail direct injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler. The BlueHDi technology incorporates a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system utilizing AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to significantly reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, meeting stringent Euro 6 emission standards. The engine produces 99 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 254 Nm (187 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and drivability. The engine’s architecture prioritizes efficiency through features like low-friction components and optimized combustion chamber design.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 BlueHDi 99 hp engine, coupled with the five-speed manual transmission, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.7 seconds, and top speed is rated at 176 km/h (109 mph). While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient torque for comfortable cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can feel somewhat strained when pushed hard. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 BlueHDi 115 hp or the 2.0 BlueHDi variants, this version offers less outright performance but excels in fuel economy. The manual transmission provides a more engaging driving experience than an automatic, allowing drivers to better control the engine’s power delivery.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C4 Picasso 1.6 BlueHDi 99 S&S typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a height-adjustable driver’s seat. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered options like rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and wipers, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded upholstery. Interior materials were generally durable and practical, though not particularly luxurious. The “S&S” designation indicates the inclusion of a Start & Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to save fuel.
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 effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is electric power-assisted, offering light and precise control. The chassis is designed to prioritize comfort and practicality over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 Picasso 1.6 BlueHDi 99 S&S was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted its lack of outright performance compared to more powerful engine options. In terms of fuel economy, it consistently outperformed the petrol-powered variants and offered comparable efficiency to the higher-output diesel models. Reliability was generally good, with the BlueHDi engine proving to be durable and relatively trouble-free. Compared to rivals like the Renault Scenic and Volkswagen Touran, the C4 Picasso offered a distinctive design and a focus on comfort.
Legacy
The 1.6 BlueHDi engine has proven to be a reliable and efficient powerplant, and examples of the C4 Picasso equipped with this engine continue to be found on the used car market. While not the most exciting variant, it represents a practical and economical choice for families seeking a spacious and comfortable MPV. The SCR system and AdBlue technology helped to reduce emissions, making it a more environmentally friendly option. Regular maintenance, including AdBlue refills, is essential to ensure the long-term reliability of this powertrain. The C4 Picasso, in general, remains a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and affordable family vehicle.
