Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Hatchback (Phase I, 2004) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i 16V (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 193 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 108.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 154.8 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 | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt, 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt, 7.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1292 kg (2848.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1812 kg (3994.78 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 320 l (11.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1023 l (36.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal, 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 683 kg (1505.76 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 66 kg (145.51 lbs.) |
| Length | 4260 mm (167.72 in.) |
| Width | 1773 mm (69.8 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1964 mm (77.32 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Front overhang | 935 mm (36.81 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 717 mm (28.23 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17 |
The Citroen C4 I Hatchback, specifically the 2.0i 16V (140 hp) Automatic variant, was produced between 2005 and 2008 as part of the first generation (Phase I) of the C4 model. Introduced as a replacement for the Xsara, the C4 aimed to offer a more modern and comfortable driving experience within the compact hatchback segment. This particular engine and transmission combination represented a mid-range offering in the C4 lineup, positioned above the base 1.4L and 1.6L engines but below the more performance-oriented 2.0L 16V manual and diesel options. It was primarily marketed towards drivers seeking a balance of power, convenience, and comfort.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 variant is the EW10A engine, a 1.997-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, designated RFJ, is a naturally aspirated unit featuring a 10.8:1 compression ratio and a multi-port fuel injection system. The 16-valve cylinder head utilizes dual overhead camshafts, contributing to its relatively high power output for its displacement. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The automatic transmission is a four-speed unit, designed to provide smooth and convenient gear changes. While not the most modern transmission by today’s standards, it was a common choice for drivers prioritizing ease of use over ultimate performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i 16V Automatic C4 offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. With 140 horsepower, acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, though not particularly sporty. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in noticeable gear changes and a slightly less responsive feel compared to the manual transmission options. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and comfort rather than outright performance. Compared to the 1.6L engine, the 2.0L provided a more effortless driving experience, especially when fully loaded or tackling inclines. However, it lacked the punch of the higher-output 2.0L manual or the torque of the diesel variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i 16V Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an RDS stereo system. Higher trim levels, such as the Exclusive, added features like alloy wheels, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers, a trip computer, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather available on higher-spec models. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, satellite navigation, and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 I utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The suspension was tuned for comfort, resulting in a slightly softer ride compared to more performance-focused hatchbacks. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 I 2.0i 16V Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a comfortable and practical family hatchback. However, the automatic transmission was sometimes criticized for being slightly sluggish and less fuel-efficient than the manual gearbox. Compared to the 2.0L manual, the automatic version offered less engaging driving dynamics. The diesel variants, particularly the 1.6HDi and 2.0HDi, were favored by those prioritizing fuel economy. The 2.0i Automatic found its niche among buyers who valued convenience and a smooth ride over sporty performance.
Legacy
The EW10A engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a relatively reliable unit. While not immune to age-related issues, it is generally considered durable with proper maintenance. The four-speed automatic transmission is also reasonably reliable, although regular fluid changes are crucial. Today, the 2.0i 16V Automatic C4 I can be found on the used car market at affordable prices. It represents a comfortable and practical option for those seeking a well-equipped and reasonably reliable hatchback, though potential buyers should be aware of the potential for age-related wear and tear.
