The Citroen C4 I Hatchback, specifically the 1.6i 16V variant produced between 2008 and 2010 (Phase II), represented a key offering in Citroen’s compact family car lineup. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it aimed to balance affordability with reasonable performance and equipment levels. This generation C4, built on the PSA Group’s Platform 2 (shared with the Peugeot 307), sought to modernize Citroen’s image with a more contemporary design and improved driving dynamics compared to its predecessor, the Xsara. The 1.6i 16V model was a popular choice in European markets, offering a gasoline-powered alternative to the diesel options available.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Hatchback (Phase II, 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6i 16V (109 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 194 km/h (120.55 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 90.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 122.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 147 Nm @ 4000 rpm (108.42 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | NFU TU5JP4 |
| Engine displacement | 1587 cm3 (96.84 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78.5 mm (3.09 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.25 l (3.43 US qt, 2.86 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt, 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 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%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 637 kg (1404.34 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 61 kg (134.48 lbs.) |
| Length | 4275 mm (168.31 in.) |
| Width | 1773 mm (69.8 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1964 mm (77.32 in.) |
| Height | 1496 mm (58.9 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Front overhang | 950 mm (37.4 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 717 mm (28.23 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| 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 | 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 | 205/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Citroen C4 I Hatchback Phase II 1.6i 16V (109 Hp) was produced from 2008 to 2010. It was a significant model within the first generation C4 range (2004-2010), built on the PSA Group’s Platform 2. This platform was also used for the Peugeot 307 and other vehicles of the era. The 1.6i 16V engine, designated NFU (TU5JP4 engine code), was a mainstay of Citroen and Peugeot’s offerings, known for its relative reliability and affordability. This particular variant aimed to provide a balance between fuel economy and acceptable performance for everyday driving, making it a popular choice for families and commuters.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 variant is the 1.6-liter (1587 cc) inline-four cylinder NFU (TU5JP4) gasoline engine. This engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high output for its displacement. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, a common setup for engines of this era. The NFU engine is known for being a robust and relatively simple design, contributing to its longevity. The engine produces 109 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 147 Nm (108.42 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a five-speed manual gearbox, offering a conventional driving experience. While an automatic transmission was available on other C4 models, it was less common with the 1.6i 16V engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6i 16V C4 offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.1 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 120.55 mph. The engine felt adequate for everyday driving, providing sufficient power for overtaking and merging onto highways. However, it lacked the punch of the higher-output engines available in the C4 range, such as the 2.0i 16V. The five-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering smooth gear changes. The C4’s suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road well, providing a relatively refined ride. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6i 16V offered a more responsive throttle and a higher revving engine, but at the expense of fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6i 16V C4 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an air conditioning system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Higher trim levels, often available as optional packages, added features such as alloy wheels, a CD stereo system, and rear electric windows. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. The dashboard layout was typical of Citroen designs of the period, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 I Hatchback utilized a McPherson strut front suspension setup with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing a good balance of comfort and handling. The rear suspension was a semi-independent coil spring arrangement. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system was a rack and pinion type, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The 17-inch wheels, fitted with 205/50 R17 tires, provided adequate grip and contributed to the car’s overall stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 1.6i 16V was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable family car. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked outright performance compared to its rivals. Compared to the 2.0i 16V C4, the 1.6i offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. The diesel variants, such as the 1.6HDi and 2.0HDi, provided superior fuel economy but were typically more expensive to purchase. The 1.6i 16V represented a sweet spot for buyers prioritizing affordability and everyday usability.
Legacy
The NFU (TU5JP4) 1.6-liter engine has proven to be a relatively reliable unit, with many examples still on the road today. Common issues include occasional oil leaks and sensor failures, but these are generally inexpensive to repair. The C4 I Hatchback, in general, has a reputation for being a durable and practical car. In the used car market, the 1.6i 16V variant represents a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and reliable mode of transportation at an affordable price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the car’s age and ensure that it has been properly maintained. The C4 I, and specifically this engine/transmission combination, remains a popular choice for those seeking a budget-friendly and dependable hatchback.
