The Citroen C4 I Grand Picasso (Phase II), specifically the 1.6 HDI variant producing 109 horsepower, was a popular choice in the European market from 2010 to 2013. This model represented a mid-cycle refresh of the first-generation Grand Picasso (introduced in 2006), focusing on enhanced styling, improved interior quality, and refined engine options. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C4 Grand Picasso lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability for families. The Grand Picasso, in general, competed with vehicles like the Renault Scenic, Opel Zafira, and Ford C-Max, offering a spacious seven-seat configuration in a relatively compact package.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Grand Picasso (Phase II, 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 HDI (109 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 142 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14 kg/Hp, 71.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 156.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1750 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 9HZ DV6TED4 |
| 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.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1530 kg (3373.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2250 kg (4960.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 720 kg (1587.33 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1180 kg (2601.45 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 880 kg (1940.07 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 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 | 6 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 | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 Grand Picasso variant is the 1.6-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine, specifically the 9HZ variant of the DV6TED4 engine family. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve efficiency. The engine produces 109 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, with two valves per cylinder. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a balance between fuel economy and drivability. The engine’s design prioritized fuel efficiency and low-end torque, characteristics well-suited for family transportation.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 HDI 109 hp engine, paired with the 6-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for the C4 Grand Picasso. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 13.5 seconds, and top speed was approximately 112 mph. The engine’s strength lay in its mid-range torque, making it suitable for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 HDI variants, this engine offered a more economical driving experience, but at the cost of outright speed. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or climbing steep hills. The steering was light and precise, contributing to a comfortable driving experience, but lacked significant feedback.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 HDI 109 hp variant typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as Exclusive, added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and wipers, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The Grand Picasso’s modular interior allowed for flexible seating configurations, with individual seats in the second and third rows that could be folded flat or removed entirely to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Grand Picasso utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth and stable ride for passengers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 Grand Picasso 1.6 HDI 109 hp was generally well-received by critics for its practicality, spaciousness, and fuel efficiency. It was praised for its comfortable ride and versatile interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or on challenging terrain. Compared to the more powerful diesel variants, the 1.6 HDI offered a lower purchase price and better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families. Its fuel economy of around 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg) was a significant selling point.
Legacy
The 9HZ DV6TED4 engine, while generally reliable, is known to have some potential issues, including potential problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the turbocharger. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. Today, the C4 Grand Picasso 1.6 HDI can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. It remains a practical and spacious family vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the diesel engine and DPF system. Its blend of practicality and fuel efficiency continues to make it a viable option for those seeking a seven-seat MPV.
