The Citroen SpaceTourer XL 1.6 BlueHDi (116 hp) S&S was a popular configuration within the SpaceTourer XL range, produced from September 2016 to June 2018. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it catered to families and businesses needing a versatile, spacious vehicle. The SpaceTourer XL, a larger variant of the standard SpaceTourer, was designed to compete with other multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) like the Volkswagen Transporter and Mercedes-Benz Vito, offering a compelling blend of practicality, comfort, and efficiency. This particular engine and transmission combination aimed to balance fuel economy with adequate performance for everyday use, making it a common choice in European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | SpaceTourer |
| Generation | SpaceTourer XL |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 BlueHDi (116 Hp) S&S |
| Start of production | September, 2016 |
| End of production | June, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8-9 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 137 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp, 72 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 186.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BHX DV6FCU |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1612-1626 kg (3553.85 – 3584.72 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2730-2790 kg (6018.62 – 6150.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1118-1164 kg (2464.77 – 2566.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 989 l (34.93 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4554 l (160.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 69 l (18.23 US gal | 15.18 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 22.4 l (5.92 US gal | 4.93 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 150 kg (330.69 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 72 kg (158.73 lbs.) |
| Length | 5306 mm (208.9 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2204 mm (86.77 in.) |
| Height | 1930 mm (75.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3275 mm (128.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Front overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1153 mm (45.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| 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, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16; 225/55 R17; 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this SpaceTourer XL variant is the 1.6-liter BlueHDi engine, specifically the BHX DV6FCU code. This engine is a member of the PSA Group’s (Peugeot Citroen) DV6 family, known for its relatively compact size and efficiency. It’s a four-cylinder, inline diesel engine featuring a turbocharger with intercooling to boost power and torque. The engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for optimized combustion. The 16-valve configuration (two valves per cylinder) contributes to efficient gas exchange. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system, automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle.
Driving Characteristics
With 116 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque, the 1.6 BlueHDi engine in the SpaceTourer XL provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.8 seconds, and top speed was limited to 99.42 mph. The engine’s torque peak at 1750 rpm meant that it offered reasonable pulling power for carrying passengers and cargo, even when fully loaded. Compared to higher-powered versions of the SpaceTourer XL, such as those with the 2.0-liter BlueHDi engine, this variant felt less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The six-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering a good spread of gears for both fuel efficiency and usability. The gear ratios were tuned for economy rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 BlueHDi (116 hp) S&S trim typically included features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and basic safety equipment like ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with durable plastics used throughout the cabin. Optional extras included navigation systems, parking sensors, a rearview camera, and upgraded audio systems. Higher trim levels offered features like leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and more advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The SpaceTourer XL utilized a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for long journeys. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The hydraulic power steering provided light and easy steering, making it maneuverable in urban environments. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen SpaceTourer XL 1.6 BlueHDi (116 hp) S&S was generally well-received by critics for its practicality, spaciousness, and fuel efficiency. It offered a compelling alternative to more expensive MPVs. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to the 2.0-liter BlueHDi variants, this engine offered better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. The 1.6 BlueHDi engine was considered a good balance for drivers prioritizing economy and everyday usability.
Legacy
The 1.6 BlueHDi engine, while not known for being a high-performance unit, proved to be relatively reliable. Common issues, when they arose, often related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the turbocharger, particularly on vehicles that primarily undertook short journeys. In the used car market, the SpaceTourer XL 1.6 BlueHDi (116 hp) S&S remains a popular choice for families and businesses seeking a versatile and affordable MPV. Its reputation for practicality and reasonable running costs continues to make it a viable option.
