The Citroën C-Elysée II, specifically the 1.6 BlueHDi variant producing 99 horsepower, represents a significant entry in Citroën’s compact sedan lineup, primarily targeted towards emerging markets and value-conscious buyers. Introduced as part of the Phase I refresh in 2015 and continuing through 2016, this model aimed to provide a practical, fuel-efficient, and affordable option within the B-segment sedan class. It’s built on the PF1 platform, also known as the C-Elysée platform, which is a derivative of the first-generation Peugeot 301 and Citroën C-Elysée. This variant occupied the lower-mid range of the C-Elysée lineup, offering a balance between economy and usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C-Elysee |
| Generation | C-Elysee II (Phase I, 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 BlueHDi (99 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 98 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 90.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 233 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.) |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1090 kg (2403.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1208 kg (2663.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 118 kg (260.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 506 l (17.87 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1010 kg (2226.67 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 55 kg (121.25 lbs.) |
| Length | 4427 mm (174.29 in.) |
| Width | 1748 mm (68.82 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1988 mm (78.27 in.) |
| Height | 1466-1477 mm (57.72 – 58.15 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2652 mm (104.41 in.) |
| Front track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Front overhang | 808 mm (31.81 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 967 mm (38.07 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15; 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C-Elysée variant is the 1.6-liter BlueHDi diesel engine, specifically the BHY or DV6FD engine code. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, utilizing a common-rail direct injection system and a turbocharger with an intercooler. The turbocharger helps to boost power and torque, while the intercooler cools the intake air, increasing efficiency. The engine produces 99 horsepower at 3750 rpm and a respectable 254 Nm (187.34 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. This torque output is a key characteristic of diesel engines, providing strong low-end pulling power. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6 standards. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 BlueHDi 99 hp C-Elysée offers a practical and economical driving experience. Acceleration is not its strong suit, with a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of around 10.8 seconds. However, the engine’s torque provides adequate power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios in the 5-speed manual transmission are well-suited for fuel efficiency, with a relatively long final drive. Compared to higher-output versions of the C-Elysée, this variant feels less responsive, particularly at higher speeds. However, it excels in fuel economy, achieving combined fuel consumption figures of around 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg). The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a reasonably smooth ride, although it can feel somewhat soft in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 BlueHDi 99 hp C-Elysée typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on practicality and affordability. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system. Safety features included ABS brakes and front airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The C-Elysée’s chassis features an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums. This configuration was chosen to keep costs down. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance. The suspension setup prioritizes ride comfort over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll, but the overall handling characteristics are geared towards everyday usability rather than performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën C-Elysée 1.6 BlueHDi 99 hp was generally well-received in markets where fuel efficiency and affordability were key considerations. Critics praised its low running costs and practical interior. However, some reviewers noted its lack of refinement and relatively slow acceleration. Compared to other trims in the C-Elysée lineup, such as those with more powerful engines, this variant offered a more economical option, but at the expense of performance. It competed with other budget-oriented sedans in its class, such as the Peugeot 301 and the Renault Symbol.
Legacy
The 1.6 BlueHDi engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although the diesel particulate filter (DPF) can be a potential source of issues if the vehicle is primarily used for short trips. In the used car market, the C-Elysée 1.6 BlueHDi 99 hp remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient sedan. Its simplicity and relatively low maintenance costs contribute to its ongoing appeal. While not a performance car, it provides a dependable and economical transportation solution.
