The Citroen C4 II Grand Picasso 1.6 THP (165 hp) S&S Automatic, produced between 2014 and 2016, represents a significant iteration of Citroen’s popular MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle). This variant was part of the second generation of the C4 Picasso, known internally as the B7 platform, and positioned as a mid-range offering within the broader C4 Picasso lineup. It aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality for families seeking a spacious and comfortable vehicle. The “S&S” designation indicates the inclusion of Citroen’s Stop & Start system, designed to improve fuel economy in urban driving conditions. This model was primarily sold in the European market, where MPVs remained a popular choice for their versatility.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Grand Picasso (Phase I, 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 THP (165 Hp) S&S Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4-7.5 l/100 km (31.8 – 31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6-4.9 l/100 km (51.1 – 48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6-5.8 l/100 km (42 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 130-134 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 125 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 181.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 165 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EP6FDT |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg (2910.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 830 kg (1829.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 170 l (6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1843 l (65.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 690 kg (1521.19 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Length | 4597 mm (180.98 in.) |
| Width | 1826 mm (71.89 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1971 mm (77.6 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2117 mm (83.35 in.) |
| Height | 1638-1644 mm (64.49 – 64.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2840 mm (111.81 in.) |
| Front track | 1573-1587 mm (61.93 – 62.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1576-1590 mm (62.05 – 62.6 in.) |
| Front overhang | 884 mm (34.8 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 873 mm (34.37 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 Grand Picasso variant is the EP6FDT 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine belongs to the Prince engine family, a collaborative development between PSA Peugeot Citroën and BMW. The EP6FDT features direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides. This combination allows for a good balance of power and efficiency. The engine’s output of 165 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at 1400 rpm provides adequate performance for a family MPV. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which was a common choice for buyers prioritizing convenience over outright performance. The Stop & Start system, denoted by the “S&S” in the model name, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 THP Automatic C4 Grand Picasso offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, although it can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offers less driver engagement but greater ease of use, particularly in congested urban environments. Against higher-output versions of the C4 Picasso, such as those equipped with the 2.0-liter BlueHDi diesel engine, the 1.6 THP feels less powerful, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. However, the petrol engine offers a more responsive feel at higher engine speeds. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 THP S&S Automatic trim typically included a generous level of standard equipment. This often encompassed features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and rear parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels offered additional features like panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Grand Picasso utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent twist beam 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 electrically assisted, offering light and precise control. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 Grand Picasso 1.6 THP S&S Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to its rivals, such as the Renault Scenic and Volkswagen Touran, the C4 Grand Picasso offered a distinctive design and a focus on practicality. The 1.6 THP engine offered a good compromise between performance and fuel economy, but the diesel variants were often preferred by those prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else.
Legacy
The EP6FDT engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly in vehicles that primarily undertake short journeys. Regular servicing and the use of quality fuel can help mitigate this risk. The six-speed automatic transmission is also generally reliable, but requires regular fluid changes to ensure smooth operation. In the used car market, the C4 Grand Picasso 1.6 THP S&S Automatic represents a good value proposition for families seeking a spacious and comfortable MPV. Its relatively low running costs and generous equipment levels make it an attractive option, provided that potential buyers are aware of the potential maintenance requirements of the engine and transmission.
