The Citroen C4 L Sedan, specifically the Phase II model produced from 2016 to 2018, represented Citroen’s entry into the competitive compact sedan market, particularly aimed at regions like China and South America. This variant, equipped with the 1.6 VTi 16V engine producing 116 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, occupied a mid-range position within the C4 L Sedan lineup. It offered a balance between affordability, comfort, and reasonable performance, targeting buyers seeking a practical and well-equipped family vehicle. The Phase II update brought subtle styling revisions and improvements to interior features compared to the initial C4 L Sedan release.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 L Sedan (Phase II, 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 VTi 16V (116 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 153 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp, 85 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm, 109.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 6050 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4000 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EP6 |
| Engine displacement | 1587 cm3 (96.84 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78.5 mm (3.09 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1805 kg (3979.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440 kg (970.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4644 mm (182.83 in.) |
| Width | 1789 mm (70.43 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1915 mm (75.39 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2057 mm (80.98 in.) |
| Height | 1513-1518 mm (59.57 – 59.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2708 mm (106.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Front overhang | 984 mm (38.74 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 952 mm (37.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 176 mm (6.93 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16; 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 L Sedan variant is the PSA Group’s EP6 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, part of the Prince engine family developed in collaboration with BMW, utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration with 16 valves (four per cylinder) and multi-point fuel injection. The EP6 engine is known for its relatively lightweight construction and decent fuel efficiency. The 116 horsepower output is achieved at 6050 rpm, while peak torque of 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) arrives at 4000 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes smooth operation and refinement over outright performance. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing convenient gear changes for everyday driving. This transmission isn’t known for particularly quick shifts, but it contributes to the overall comfort and ease of use of the vehicle.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6L automatic C4 L Sedan delivers a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 12.5 seconds, which is typical for a vehicle in this class with this engine and transmission combination. The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel economy and smooth transitions, meaning it doesn’t always select the most aggressive gear for maximum acceleration. Compared to the more powerful engine options available in the C4 L Sedan range, such as the 1.6 THP turbocharged engine, this variant feels noticeably less responsive. However, it offers a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The gear ratios are optimized for cruising at highway speeds, providing adequate power for overtaking maneuvers, though it requires planning.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 VTi Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and steel wheels with wheel covers. Higher trim levels, available as options, added features like alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with a touchscreen display, rear parking sensors, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with the option of leather seats on higher-spec models. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and sometimes rear airbags depending on the specific market and optional packages.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 L Sedan 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, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling, resulting in a slight degree of body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C4 L Sedan 1.6 VTi Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family sedan. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its turbocharged counterparts and that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times. Compared to other sedans in its class, such as the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic, the C4 L Sedan offered a distinctive French design and a focus on comfort. Fuel economy figures of around 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) were competitive for the segment. Reliability reports were generally positive, with the EP6 engine proving to be a relatively durable unit.
Legacy
The Citroen C4 L Sedan, and specifically the 1.6 VTi Automatic variant, has established a reputation as a reliable and affordable used car. The EP6 engine, while not known for its high performance, is generally considered to be durable and relatively inexpensive to maintain. The automatic transmission, if properly maintained, can provide years of trouble-free service. Today, these vehicles represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable and practical sedan at a reasonable price point. Parts availability can vary depending on the region, but generally, components are readily accessible. The C4 L Sedan remains a testament to Citroen’s commitment to providing comfortable and practical transportation solutions.
