The Citroen C4 II Grand Picasso Phase II, specifically the 1.2 PureTech 131 horsepower (HP) S&S Automatic variant, was produced from 2016 to 2018. This model represents a mid-life refresh of the second-generation C4 Picasso, a compact minivan (MPV) designed to offer spaciousness and practicality for families. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the C4 Picasso lineup, it aimed to balance affordability with a reasonable level of equipment and fuel efficiency. It was primarily sold in the European market, where MPVs remained a popular choice for family transportation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Grand Picasso (Phase II, 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 PureTech (131 Hp) S&S Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 115 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 | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 99.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 131 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 109.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HNY EB2DTS |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1317 kg (2903.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2136 kg (4709.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 819 kg (1805.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 165 l (5.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2181 l (77.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1050 kg (2314.85 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 648 kg (1428.6 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Length | 4602 mm (181.18 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 | 889 mm (35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 873 mm (34.37 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 | 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 Picasso variant is the 1.2-liter PureTech engine, specifically the HNY EB2DTS code. This engine is a three-cylinder, turbocharged gasoline engine featuring direct fuel injection. The PureTech engines were developed as part of PSA Peugeot Citroen’s efforts to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The engine utilizes a single-scroll turbocharger and an intercooler to boost power output. The 1.2L engine produces 131 HP at 5500 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system to further enhance fuel economy. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth gear changes and contribute to overall driving comfort. This transmission isn’t known for particularly sporty shifts, but rather prioritizes efficiency and ease of use.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 PureTech 131 HP Automatic C4 Picasso offers a comfortable and practical driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 10.3 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly brisk performance. The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning it will upshift quickly to maintain lower engine speeds. This can sometimes result in the engine feeling slightly strained when accelerating or climbing hills. Compared to the more powerful petrol or diesel variants, this version feels less responsive. However, the turbocharger does provide a noticeable boost in power once the engine is above 1500 rpm. The steering is light and easy, making it well-suited for urban driving. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 PureTech 131 HP Automatic typically came with a good level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and electric windows. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as navigation, panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for partial leather. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags.
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 setup provides a good balance between comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is a rack and pinion system with electric power assistance. The vehicle rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with 205/55 R17 tires. The suspension is tuned to prioritize ride comfort, but it still offers reasonable body control in corners.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.2 PureTech 131 HP Automatic C4 Picasso was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient family vehicle. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable running costs. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered at times, especially when fully loaded. Compared to the 1.6 BlueHDi diesel variant, the PureTech offered slightly less torque but better refinement. The petrol engine was also generally cheaper to maintain than the diesel, as it doesn’t have the same complex emissions control systems. Fuel economy figures of around 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The 1.2 PureTech engine has proven to be generally reliable, although some early versions were prone to issues with the timing chain. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The C4 Picasso remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering good value for money and a practical family package. The automatic transmission, while not the most dynamic, has proven to be durable. The combination of space, fuel efficiency, and affordability makes this variant a compelling option for buyers seeking a used MPV.
