The Citroën C4 I Picasso 1.6 THP 150 EGS, produced between 2008 and 2010, represents a significant iteration within the first generation (2007-2013) of Citroën’s popular compact MPV. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C4 Picasso lineup, this variant combined a turbocharged petrol engine with Citroën’s electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission (EGS – Electronically controlled Gearshift). It aimed to provide a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and convenience for family buyers in the European market. The C4 Picasso, overall, was designed to compete with vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Opel/Vauxhall Zafira, offering a spacious and versatile interior within a relatively compact footprint.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Picasso (Phase I, 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 THP (150 Hp) EGS |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 176 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 204 km/h (126.76 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 99.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 159.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 93.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FX 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 | 1506 kg (3320.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max load | 534 kg (1177.27 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission EGS |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Citroën C4 I Picasso 1.6 THP 150 EGS, launched in 2008, was a key variant within the first generation of the C4 Picasso. Built on the PSA Group’s Platform 2 (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), this MPV aimed to offer a modern and practical solution for families. The 1.6 THP engine, a product of PSA’s collaboration with BMW, represented a move towards more efficient and powerful petrol engines. The EGS transmission, while offering convenience, was a unique and sometimes controversial feature, setting this variant apart from its manual and diesel counterparts.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the C4 Picasso 1.6 THP 150 EGS lies the 5FX (EP6DT) engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output. The engine’s turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides increased air intake, boosting performance. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque between 1400 and 4000 rpm. The EGS transmission is a six-speed automated manual gearbox. Unlike a traditional automatic transmission with a torque converter, the EGS uses actuators to shift gears, offering quicker shifts but sometimes exhibiting a less smooth driving experience compared to conventional automatics.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 THP 150 EGS offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-powered petrol and diesel options available in the C4 Picasso range. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 10 seconds. The EGS transmission, while quick, could sometimes feel jerky, particularly at low speeds. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the EGS offered greater convenience, especially in urban driving. However, drivers seeking a more engaging driving experience often preferred the control offered by the manual gearbox. The 1.6 THP engine provided ample power for highway cruising and overtaking, making it a suitable choice for long journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C4 Picasso 1.6 THP 150 EGS typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, central locking, a CD stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was modern for its time, featuring a centrally mounted instrument cluster. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Picasso 1.6 THP 150 EGS utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C4 Picasso 1.6 THP 150 EGS received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. The engine was praised for its performance and fuel efficiency, while the spacious interior and versatile seating arrangements were also highlighted. However, the EGS transmission received mixed feedback, with some reviewers finding it jerky and less refined than traditional automatic gearboxes. Compared to the 1.6 HDi diesel variants, the 1.6 THP offered more power but slightly lower fuel economy. The petrol engine was generally considered more refined and quieter than the diesel, making it a preferable choice for drivers prioritizing comfort.
Legacy
The 1.6 THP engine proved to be a relatively reliable unit, although some owners have reported issues with the timing chain. The EGS transmission, while innovative, has also been known to experience occasional problems. Today, the C4 Picasso 1.6 THP 150 EGS can be found on the used car market at affordable prices. It remains a practical and spacious MPV, offering a good balance of performance, comfort, and versatility. Its unique EGS transmission and relatively modern engine make it a distinctive choice for buyers seeking a slightly different MPV experience.
