2008-2010 Citroen C4 I Picasso (Phase I ) 1.6 THP (140 Hp) Automatic

Technical Specifications

Brand Citroen
Model C4
Generation C4 I Picasso (Phase I, 2007)
Type (Engine) 1.6 THP (140 Hp) Automatic
Start of production 2008
End of production 2010
Powertrain Architecture Internal Combustion engine
Body type Minivan, MPV
Seats 5
Doors 5
Fuel consumption (urban) 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l)
Fuel consumption (extra urban) 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l)
Fuel consumption (combined) 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l)
CO2 emissions 200 g/km
Fuel Type Petrol (Gasoline)
Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h 11.5 sec
Acceleration 0 – 62 mph 11.5 sec
Acceleration 0 – 60 mph 10.9 sec
Maximum speed 192 km/h (119.3 mph)
Emission standard Euro 4
Weight-to-power ratio 11 kg/Hp, 91 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio 6.4 kg/Nm, 155.9 Nm/tonne
Power 140 Hp @ 5800 rpm
Power per litre 87.6 Hp/l
Torque 240 Nm @ 1400 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm)
Engine layout Front, Transverse
Engine Model/Code 5FT EP6DT
Engine displacement 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.)
Number of cylinders 4
Engine configuration Inline
Cylinder Bore 77 mm (3.03 in.)
Piston Stroke 85.8 mm (3.38 in.)
Compression ratio 11:1
Number of valves per cylinder 4
Fuel injection system Direct injection
Engine aspiration Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain DOHC
Engine oil capacity 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt)
Coolant 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt)
Kerb Weight 1539 kg (3392.91 lbs.)
Max. weight 2055 kg (4530.5 lbs.)
Max load 516 kg (1137.59 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 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 11.33 m (37.17 ft.)
Drivetrain Architecture ICE, Front wheel drive
Number of gears and type of gearbox 4 gears, automatic transmission
Front suspension Independent, 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

The Citroën C4 I Picasso 1.6 THP 140 Automatic, produced between 2008 and 2010, occupied a mid-range position within the first generation (2007-2013) of Citroën’s popular compact MPV. Positioned as a more powerful and refined alternative to the base 1.6 VTi models, it aimed to deliver a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort for family buyers. This variant was part of the Phase I refresh of the C4 Picasso, building upon the innovative design and spacious interior that characterized the original model. It competed directly with other compact MPVs like the Renault Scenic, Opel Zafira, and Volkswagen Touran.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The core of the C4 Picasso 1.6 THP 140 Automatic is the PSA-developed 5FT EP6DT engine. This 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine employs direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger, generating 140 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1400 rpm. The direct injection system, working in conjunction with the turbocharger, provides a favorable combination of power and efficiency. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The automatic transmission is a four-speed unit, engineered to provide smooth shifts and ease of driving, particularly in city conditions. While not as advanced as contemporary six or eight-speed automatics, it was a common choice for this vehicle segment at the time.

Driving Characteristics

The 1.6 THP 140 Automatic offered a noticeable performance improvement over the base 1.6 VTi models. The turbocharger delivers a good amount of low-end torque, making acceleration from a standstill or overtaking maneuvers relatively straightforward. However, the four-speed automatic transmission limits the engine’s ability to remain in its optimal power band, especially at higher speeds. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic feels somewhat less responsive. The gear ratios are optimized for comfort and fuel economy rather than outright performance. While it could achieve a top speed of 192 km/h (119 mph), acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes approximately 11.5 seconds.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The C4 Picasso 1.6 THP 140 Automatic typically included a reasonable array of standard features. These encompassed air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a CD stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, often labeled “Exclusive” or “Sensium,” added features such as alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, a multi-function steering wheel, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, satellite navigation, and leather upholstery. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with higher trims offering partial leather options.

Chassis & Braking

The C4 Picasso utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing bumps and road imperfections. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The suspension was tuned to prioritize ride comfort over sporty handling, aligning with the vehicle’s role as a family MPV.

Market Reception & Comparison

The C4 Picasso 1.6 THP 140 Automatic was generally well-regarded by automotive reviewers. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and relatively fuel-efficient engine. However, some critics pointed out that the four-speed automatic transmission felt somewhat outdated compared to newer transmissions found in competing vehicles. Fuel economy was respectable for its class, averaging around 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg). Compared to the 1.6 VTi models, the 1.6 THP offered significantly improved performance, but at a slightly higher price. The diesel-powered variants, such as the 1.6 HDi, offered even better fuel economy but with a different driving experience.

Legacy

The 5FT EP6DT engine, while generally reliable, has been known to develop issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly with vehicles used primarily for short trips. Regular maintenance and the use of high-quality fuel can help minimize this risk. The four-speed automatic transmission is generally durable but may require more frequent servicing than more modern units. Today, the C4 Picasso 1.6 THP 140 Automatic can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. It remains a practical and spacious family vehicle, offering a good balance of comfort, performance, and fuel efficiency for its age.

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