The Citroën C4 I Picasso 1.6 HDi 109 FAP, produced between 2007 and 2008, represents a key variant within the first generation (Phase I) of Citroën’s popular compact minivan. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for family transport. This model, built on the Citroën/Peugeot PSA platform, was primarily marketed in Europe as a practical and economical people carrier, competing with vehicles like the Renault Scénic and Opel Zafira. The “FAP” designation indicates the inclusion of a Diesel Particulate Filter, reflecting growing environmental regulations at the time.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroën |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Picasso (Phase I, 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 HDi (109 Hp) FAP |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 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) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 145 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp, 73.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.2 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 | 17.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| 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 | 1489 kg (3282.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 561 kg (1236.79 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1734 l (61.24 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%) | 1080 kg (2380.99 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 60 kg (132.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 4470 mm (175.98 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2100 mm (82.68 in.) |
| Height | 1660-1680 mm (65.35 – 66.14 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 | 747 mm (29.41 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.33 m (37.17 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 Picasso variant is the 1.6-liter HDi (High-Pressure Diesel Injection) engine, specifically the 9HZ variant of the DV6TED4 engine family. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline diesel featuring a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The common rail direct injection system, operating at very high pressures, ensures precise fuel delivery and contributes to reduced emissions. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved performance. The inclusion of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) – indicated by the “FAP” designation – was crucial for meeting Euro 4 emission standards. The engine produces 109 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. This torque figure, available at relatively low engine speeds, is a hallmark of diesel engines and contributes to good drivability. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 HDi 109 hp engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for the C4 Picasso. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 12.5 seconds. The focus was clearly on fuel economy rather than outright speed. The engine’s torque characteristics meant that it felt reasonably responsive in everyday driving situations, such as overtaking or climbing hills. Compared to higher-powered versions of the C4 Picasso, such as those equipped with the 2.0 HDi engine, this variant felt noticeably slower. However, it offered a more economical and refined driving experience. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often operated at lower RPMs during cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 HDi 109 FAP trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with CD player. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Higher trim levels offered options like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers, and upgraded interior trim materials. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was typical of Citroëns of the era, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Picasso featured independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a coil spring and anti-roll bar. The rear suspension was a semi-independent torsion beam setup, also with coil springs. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for long journeys. The braking system consisted of 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 was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën C4 Picasso 1.6 HDi 109 FAP was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and comfortable ride. It was seen as a sensible choice for families seeking an economical and spacious people carrier. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 HDi variants, it offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with combined fuel consumption figures around 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg). Reliability was generally good, although the DPF could be a potential source of issues if the vehicle was primarily used for short journeys.
Legacy
The 1.6 HDi engine, in various iterations, became a mainstay in the PSA Group’s (Citroën and Peugeot) lineup for many years. While generally reliable, the 9HZ variant, like many early diesel particulate filter systems, could experience issues with DPF clogging if not properly maintained or if used predominantly for short trips. Today, used examples of the C4 Picasso 1.6 HDi 109 FAP are relatively affordable and can represent good value for money, provided the DPF has been well-maintained. The engine’s fuel efficiency remains a significant advantage, making it a viable option for those seeking an economical family vehicle.
