The Citroën C4 I Picasso (Phase II), specifically the 1.6 THP (156 hp) EGS variant produced between 2010 and 2013, represents a mid-cycle refresh of the first-generation C4 Picasso. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C4 Picasso lineup, this version aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality for family transport. It built upon the foundation of the original C4 Picasso, which debuted in 2006, and was part of the broader PSA Peugeot Citroën effort to offer competitive MPVs in the European market. The Phase II update brought styling revisions, improved interior materials, and advancements in engine technology, including the introduction of the 1.6 THP engine paired with the electronically controlled gearbox (EGS).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 I Picasso (Phase II, 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 THP (156 Hp) EGS |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 204 km/h (126.76 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 109.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 167.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400-4000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FV EP6CDT |
| 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 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1350 kg (2976.24 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) | 11.3 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 | 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 Phase II 1.6 THP 156 EGS is a five-door minivan that was produced from 2010 to 2013. It represents a significant step forward in the C4 Picasso line, offering a more refined driving experience and improved fuel economy compared to earlier models. The “Phase II” designation refers to a comprehensive update that included revised styling, enhanced interior quality, and the introduction of new engine options. This particular variant, with its 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine and electronically controlled gearbox, was aimed at buyers seeking a balance between performance and efficiency in a practical family vehicle. It competed with other MPVs like the Renault Scenic, Volkswagen Touran, and Opel Zafira.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this C4 Picasso variant lies the PSA-developed 1.6 THP (Turbo High Pressure) engine, specifically the 5FV EP6CDT code. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration with a displacement of 1598 cc. It features direct fuel injection, a turbocharger with an intercooler, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, contributing to improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The turbocharger boosts power output, providing a noticeable increase in performance compared to naturally aspirated engines. The engine produces 156 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque between 1400 and 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine is the EGS (Electronically controlled Gearbox) – a six-speed automated manual transmission. Unlike a traditional automatic transmission with a torque converter, the EGS uses actuators to shift gears, offering quicker shifts and improved fuel economy, but sometimes exhibiting a less smooth operation than a conventional automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 THP 156 EGS C4 Picasso offers a reasonably engaging driving experience for an MPV. The turbocharger provides a good surge of power, making overtaking and highway cruising relatively effortless. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 10.3 seconds. The EGS transmission, while efficient, can sometimes feel jerky, particularly at low speeds or during stop-start traffic. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between fuel economy and performance, with taller gears for relaxed cruising and shorter gears for quicker acceleration. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6 THP offers a more responsive and rev-happy engine, but it lacks the low-end torque of the diesel. Compared to the higher-output 1.6 THP variants, this 156 hp version provides adequate power for most driving situations, but it doesn’t offer the same level of outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C4 Picasso Phase II 1.6 THP 156 EGS typically came equipped with a good level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, power-adjustable door mirrors, a CD stereo with MP3 compatibility, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and wipers, a panoramic sunroof, and a more advanced infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use. Optional extras included navigation systems, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rear entertainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Picasso features a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering is a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive handling. The vehicle’s weight of around 1430 kg (3153 lbs) is relatively moderate for its class, contributing to its decent handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën C4 Picasso Phase II 1.6 THP 156 EGS was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, the EGS transmission received mixed reviews, with some critics finding it jerky and less refined than traditional automatic transmissions. Compared to the diesel-powered C4 Picasso variants, the 1.6 THP offered a more engaging driving experience but slightly lower fuel economy. The petrol version was often seen as a good choice for drivers who primarily cover shorter distances or who prefer the responsiveness of a petrol engine. Against competitors like the Renault Scenic and Volkswagen Touran, the C4 Picasso offered a distinctive design and a comfortable interior, but it sometimes lagged behind in terms of overall refinement.
Legacy
The 1.6 THP engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly in vehicles that are primarily used for short journeys. Regular servicing and the use of high-quality fuel can help to mitigate this risk. The EGS transmission, while efficient, can be more expensive to repair than a traditional automatic transmission. Today, the C4 Picasso Phase II 1.6 THP 156 EGS can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. It remains a practical and stylish choice for families seeking a spacious and comfortable MPV, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance issues associated with the engine and transmission.
