The Citroen C4 III 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic, produced between December 2020 and October 2024, represents a significant offering in the compact segment, blending the practicality of a hatchback with styling cues reminiscent of an SUV. Positioned as a mid-range option within the C4 III lineup, this variant aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, comfortable driving experience, and modern technology. It falls within the first phase (Phase I) of the third-generation C4, built on the Common Modular Platform (CMP) shared with other Stellantis brands like Peugeot and Opel/Vauxhall. This generation marked a departure from the more traditional hatchback shape of its predecessors, adopting a more crossover-inspired design.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 III (Phase I, 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 BlueHDi (130 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | December, 2020 |
| End of production | October, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 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) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 98.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 226.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | YHZ DV5RC |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1324-1417 kg (2918.92 – 3123.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1795 kg (3957.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 378-471 kg (833.35 – 1038.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1250 l (44.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 55 kg (121.25 lbs.) |
| Length | 4355 mm (171.46 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1834 mm (72.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1545-1560 mm (60.83 – 61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1545-1560 mm (60.83 – 61.42 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17 96; 195/60 R18 96H |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the C4 III 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic is the YHZ DV5RC engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of the BlueHDi family, incorporating advanced technologies to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy. It utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine produces 130 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine also features a particulate filter to trap soot, contributing to lower emissions. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and contributing to the vehicle’s overall refinement. This transmission is a conventional torque-converter automatic, prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic offers a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. The 10.6-second 0-62 mph acceleration time is respectable for a diesel-powered compact. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth shifts and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness, but gains in ease of use, particularly in urban environments. Compared to higher-output versions of the C4 III, such as those with more powerful gasoline engines, the 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel economy, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C4 III 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, cruise control, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades available. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as a larger touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and parking assist.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 III 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, providing ample stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 III 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic 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 at times, particularly when fully loaded or tackling steep hills. Compared to other trims in the C4 III lineup, the 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic offered a compelling balance of economy and practicality. It was a popular choice for drivers who prioritized fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience over outright performance. Its fuel economy figures were competitive with other diesel-powered compacts on the market.
Legacy
The 1.5 BlueHDi engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although, like all diesel engines, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements. The eight-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good durability. On the used car market, the C4 III 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic represents a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and economical driving experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, particularly if the vehicle has been primarily used for short trips. Overall, this variant remains a practical and appealing option for those seeking a fuel-efficient and comfortable compact car.
