The Citroen C4 II Grand Picasso, specifically the Phase II model produced from 2016 to 2018, represented a significant evolution of Citroen’s popular MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle). This variant, equipped with the 1.6 BlueHDi diesel engine producing 120 horsepower and featuring a Start & Stop system, aimed to balance fuel efficiency with practicality for family transport. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Grand Picasso lineup, it slotted between the lower-powered diesel options and the more expensive, higher-specification trims. The C4 II Grand Picasso (Phase II) was primarily marketed in Europe, where MPVs remained a popular choice for families needing flexible seating and ample cargo space.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Grand Picasso (Phase II, 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 BlueHDI (120 Hp) S&S 98g |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 98 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 219.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BHZ DV6FC |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2150 kg (4739.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 785 kg (1730.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 165 l (5.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2181 l (77.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 720 kg (1587.33 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, manual 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 1.6 BlueHDi engine, specifically the BHZ DV6FC variant. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline diesel utilizing a common-rail direct injection system. The BlueHDi technology incorporates a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system using AdBlue to significantly reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, helping it meet stringent Euro 6 emission standards. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output and improving efficiency. The 120 horsepower is achieved at 3500 rpm, while the 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque is readily available from 1750 rpm, providing good low-end responsiveness. The engine’s compression ratio is relatively high at 16:1, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this trim level, chosen for its balance of fuel economy and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 BlueHDi 120 hp engine, paired with the 6-speed manual gearbox, delivers a comfortable and practical driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of around 11.6 seconds. However, it’s not a particularly sporty setup. The focus is on fuel economy and relaxed cruising. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it easy to navigate urban environments and provides sufficient power for overtaking on highways. Compared to the more powerful 150 hp BlueHDi variant, this engine feels less strained when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. The gear ratios are well-chosen for maximizing fuel efficiency, but they don’t prioritize rapid acceleration. The manual transmission allows for greater driver engagement compared to the optional automatic, but requires more effort in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 BlueHDi 120 hp variant typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and cruise control. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgrading to leather. Higher trim levels offered features like panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and parking sensors. The Grand Picasso’s modular interior allowed for flexible seating configurations, with individual seats in the second and third rows that could be folded flat or removed entirely to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 II Grand Picasso utilizes 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, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The electric power steering offers light and precise control. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 BlueHDi 120 hp variant of the C4 Grand Picasso was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It offered a compelling alternative to petrol-powered MPVs and other diesel options. Compared to the 150 hp BlueHDi, it was considered a more sensible choice for drivers prioritizing economy over outright performance. The manual transmission was praised for its smooth operation and improved fuel consumption compared to the automatic option. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Fuel economy figures of around 62 mpg (combined) were consistently reported, making it an attractive option for families covering long distances.
Legacy
The 1.6 BlueHDi engine proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain when properly maintained. While early versions of the DV6 engine family had some issues with diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, the later BlueHDi iterations, like the BHZ, were significantly improved. Today, used examples of the C4 Grand Picasso 1.6 BlueHDi are readily available and generally offer good value for money. Regular servicing, including oil changes and DPF maintenance, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. The C4 Grand Picasso remains a popular choice for families seeking a spacious, practical, and fuel-efficient MPV.
