The Citroen C4 I Grand Picasso 2.0i 16V Automatic, produced between 2006 and 2008, represents a significant offering in the compact minivan (MPV) segment. Part of the first generation (C4 I) of the Grand Picasso, this variant aimed to provide a comfortable and practical family vehicle with an emphasis on space and convenience. It was positioned as a mid-range option within the Grand Picasso lineup, offering a step up in performance from the base 1.8-liter engine while remaining more accessible than the later diesel options. This model was primarily sold in Europe, where the MPV class enjoyed considerable popularity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Grand Picasso (Phase I, 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i 16V (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 125 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RFJ EW10A |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2260 kg (4982.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 660 kg (1455.05 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 (8%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 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 | 4 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 |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Citroen C4 I Grand Picasso 2.0i 16V Automatic, launched in 2006, was a key component of Citroen’s strategy to offer a versatile and spacious family vehicle. Built on the PSA Group’s Platform 2 (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), it shared its underpinnings with the Peugeot 307 and other models. The Grand Picasso variant distinguished itself from the standard C4 through its extended wheelbase, providing a third row of seats and significantly increased cargo capacity. This 2.0-liter engine and automatic transmission combination was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing comfort and ease of driving over outright performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Grand Picasso variant lies the EW10A engine, a 1997cc inline-four cylinder petrol engine. Designated RFJ as its engine code, this engine featured a 16-valve cylinder head and multi-port fuel injection. The EW10A is known for its relatively smooth operation and decent power output for its displacement. The engine’s design emphasized refinement and drivability rather than peak horsepower. The automatic transmission used was a four-speed unit, a common choice for European vehicles of this era. While not the most modern transmission, it provided smooth shifts and contributed to the vehicle’s overall comfort. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, rather than aggressive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i 16V Automatic Grand Picasso offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. With 140 horsepower, acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but the vehicle’s weight (approximately 1600 kg) meant that 0-60 mph took around 13 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat sluggish during quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic sacrificed some responsiveness. The focus was clearly on providing a relaxed and easy-to-drive experience, making it well-suited for urban commuting and long-distance family trips. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road well, contributing to a pleasant ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i 16V Automatic Grand Picasso typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Higher trim levels offered options such as alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a more advanced audio system with navigation. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and side airbags. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring durable materials and a flexible seating arrangement. The third row of seats could be folded flat into the floor, maximizing cargo space when not in use.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Grand Picasso utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The vehicle’s relatively long wheelbase contributed to its stability and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 I Grand Picasso 2.0i 16V Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and comfortable family vehicle. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel a bit dated and that the engine lacked the punch of some of its competitors. Compared to the 1.8-liter version, the 2.0-liter offered noticeably more power and a more relaxed driving experience. Compared to the diesel variants, the petrol engine was quieter and smoother, but less fuel-efficient. Fuel economy was a common criticism, with combined figures around 26.4 US mpg being considered average for the class.
Legacy
The Citroen C4 I Grand Picasso 2.0i 16V Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, although maintenance costs can be moderate. The EW10A engine is generally considered durable, but regular servicing is essential. Common issues include problems with the electronic parking brake and occasional issues with the automatic transmission. In the used car market, these Grand Picassos represent a good value for money, offering a lot of space and practicality for a reasonable price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs and ensure that the vehicle has been well-maintained.
