The Citroen C-Crosser 2.4i 16V, produced from 2008 to 2012, was Citroen’s entry into the compact crossover SUV segment. Developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi, the C-Crosser shared its platform and many components with the Mitsubishi Outlander. This particular variant, equipped with a 2.4-liter inline-four engine producing 170 horsepower and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), was positioned as a mid-range offering within the C-Crosser lineup, notable for its seven-passenger capacity and all-wheel-drive system. It aimed to provide a practical and comfortable family vehicle with a degree of off-road capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C-Crosser |
| Generation | C-Crosser |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4i 16V (170 Hp) CVT 7 Seats |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 191 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 232 Nm @ 4100 rpm (171.11 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 4B12 |
| Engine displacement | 2359 cm3 (143.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1715 kg (3780.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2290 kg (5048.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 184 l (6.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1686 l (59.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4646 mm (182.91 in.) |
| Width | 1806 mm (71.1 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2072 mm (81.57 in.) |
| Height | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Front overhang | 969 mm (38.15 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1007 mm (39.65 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 174 mm (6.85 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 22° |
| Departure angle | 21° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 25-19° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Citroen C-Crosser 2.4i 16V, launched in 2008 and continuing through 2012, represented Citroen’s foray into the burgeoning compact SUV market. Built upon the Mitsubishi Outlander platform (designated as the GA2W series), the C-Crosser was a product of the collaboration between the PSA Group (Peugeot Citroen) and Mitsubishi Motors. This variant, featuring a 2.4-liter gasoline engine paired with a continuously variable transmission and offering seven-passenger seating, aimed to appeal to families seeking a versatile and practical vehicle. The C-Crosser was primarily marketed in Europe, where it competed with vehicles like the Nissan Qashqai, Renault Kadjar, and Hyundai ix35.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the C-Crosser 2.4i 16V lies Mitsubishi’s 4B12 inline-four cylinder engine. This 2.4-liter (2359 cc) engine utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration and features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine employs multi-point fuel injection to deliver fuel to the cylinders. Producing 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 232 Nm (171 lb-ft) of torque at 4100 rpm, the 4B12 engine was known for its relatively smooth operation, though not particularly sporty performance. The engine’s compression ratio is 10.5:1. Paired with this engine is a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which provides seamless gear changes and contributes to improved fuel efficiency, albeit at the expense of a more engaging driving experience. The CVT lacks defined gear steps, instead offering a continuously variable range of ratios.
Driving Characteristics
The C-Crosser 2.4i 16V with the CVT transmission delivers a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. The CVT prioritizes fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration over rapid response. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.7 seconds, which is typical for a vehicle of this class with this engine and transmission combination. The CVT tends to hold the engine at a consistent rpm during acceleration, which can result in a somewhat droning engine note. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the C-Crosser, the CVT offers less driver involvement but greater ease of use, particularly in urban traffic. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making the C-Crosser a capable vehicle for light off-road use and inclement weather.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C-Crosser 2.4i 16V typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a CD/radio system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a more advanced audio system. The seven-passenger configuration featured folding rear seats to maximize cargo space when not all seats were in use. Interior materials were generally of good quality, though not luxurious. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The C-Crosser utilizes an independent suspension system on both the front and rear axles. The front suspension employs a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension features a multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. The C-Crosser is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is rack and pinion, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C-Crosser 2.4i 16V received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While the spacious interior and seven-passenger capacity were praised, the engine and CVT combination were often criticized for lacking performance and providing a less engaging driving experience compared to competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for the class. Compared to other C-Crosser variants, such as those with the manual transmission or the diesel engine options, the 2.4i CVT was generally seen as the least sporty but most convenient choice. The diesel models offered better fuel economy and torque, while the manual transmission provided a more direct connection to the engine.
Legacy
The Citroen C-Crosser, while not a runaway sales success, established Citroen as a player in the compact SUV segment. The 2.4-liter engine and CVT powertrain, while not known for exceptional reliability, have proven to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance. On the used car market, the C-Crosser 2.4i 16V represents a relatively affordable option for families seeking a seven-passenger vehicle with all-wheel drive. However, potential buyers should be aware of the CVT’s maintenance requirements and the potential for higher fuel consumption compared to more modern SUVs. The C-Crosser’s legacy lies in its role as a pioneering model for Citroen in the crossover SUV market, paving the way for future models like the C5 Aircross.
