The Citroen C4 I Grand Picasso 1.6 VTi (120 hp) represents a specific configuration within the first generation of Citroen’s popular MPV, produced between 2008 and 2010. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the Grand Picasso lineup, this variant aimed to balance affordability with reasonable performance and fuel economy for family transport. It was part of the broader C4 Picasso range, built on the PSA Peugeot Citroën’s Platform 2 (EMP2) architecture, known for its modularity and focus on passenger space. The Grand Picasso, distinguished by its seven-seat configuration, catered to larger families seeking a versatile vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Grand Picasso (Phase I, 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 174 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 186 km/h (115.58 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.4 kg/Hp, 80.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.3 kg/Nm, 107.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4250 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FW EP6 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1486 kg (3276.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 714 kg (1574.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 208 l (7.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1951 l (68.9 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4590 mm (180.71 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2100 mm (82.68 in.) |
| Height | 1660-1710 mm (65.35 – 67.32 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2728 mm (107.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Front overhang | 995 mm (39.17 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 867 mm (34.13 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.85 m (38.88 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 |
| 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 | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 Grand Picasso variant is the PSA-developed 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated the 5FW EP6. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit featuring a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized fuel efficiency and smooth operation over outright performance. The 5FW EP6 engine is known for its relatively simple construction, contributing to its generally good reliability. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. While an automatic transmission was offered on other C4 Picasso models, the 1.6 VTi was exclusively available with a manual gearbox in this generation.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 VTi engine, coupled with the Grand Picasso’s weight (approximately 1486 kg or 3276 lbs), results in a driving experience focused on practicality rather than sportiness. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 12.4 seconds. The engine feels adequate for everyday driving, providing sufficient power for highway cruising and city commutes, but it can feel strained when fully loaded with passengers and luggage, or when attempting brisk acceleration. The 5-speed manual transmission offers a reasonable spread of gears, but the relatively long gearing contributes to the engine’s relaxed nature. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter HDi diesel variants, the 1.6 VTi feels noticeably slower, but it offers a quieter and smoother driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 VTi Grand Picasso typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a CD stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, available as options, added features such as alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers, and a more advanced audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials. The Grand Picasso’s interior is characterized by its spaciousness and modularity, with flexible seating arrangements to accommodate varying passenger and cargo needs.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Grand Picasso utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive handling. The suspension tuning prioritizes comfort over sporty handling, resulting in a slightly noticeable body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 Grand Picasso 1.6 VTi was generally well-received by critics as a practical and spacious family vehicle. However, the 1.6-liter engine was often criticized for being underpowered, particularly when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6 VTi offered lower fuel economy but a quieter and smoother driving experience. The petrol engine also benefited from lower road tax in some European countries compared to the diesel models. The Grand Picasso competed with other MPVs such as the Renault Scenic, Volkswagen Touran, and Opel Zafira.
Legacy
The 1.6 VTi engine, while not known for exceptional performance, has proven to be relatively reliable over the long term. Common issues include occasional problems with the ignition coils and fuel injectors, but these are generally not major or expensive to repair. The C4 Grand Picasso remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly among families seeking a spacious and versatile vehicle. The 1.6 VTi variant offers a more affordable entry point into the Grand Picasso range, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Its simple engine design and readily available parts contribute to its continued appeal.
