The Citroen C4 II Grand Picasso (Phase II), specifically the 1.6 THP 165 horsepower automatic variant produced between 2016 and 2018, represents a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation C4 Picasso. Positioned as a practical and spacious family vehicle, this iteration of the Grand Picasso aimed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate performance within the European MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) market. It builds upon the foundation of the earlier C4 Picasso, utilizing the EMP2 platform (Efficient Modular Platform 2) developed by the PSA Group (Peugeot Société Anonyme). This platform was designed to reduce weight and improve packaging, contributing to the vehicle’s overall efficiency and interior space. The Phase II update brought styling revisions, enhanced technology, and refinements to the powertrain options, including this popular 1.6 THP engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Grand Picasso (Phase II, 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 THP (165 Hp) 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) | 7.4-7.5 l/100 km (31.8 – 31.4 US mpg, 38.2 – 37.7 UK mpg, 13.5 – 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6-4.9 l/100 km (51.1 – 48 US mpg, 61.4 – 57.6 UK mpg, 21.7 – 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6-5.8 l/100 km (42 – 40.6 US mpg, 50.4 – 48.7 UK mpg, 17.9 – 17.2 km/l) |
| 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 |
| Power per litre | 103.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EP6FDTM |
| 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) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 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 | 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 690 kg (1521.19 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | 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; 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 Grand Picasso variant is the EP6FDTM 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine belongs to the Prince engine family, a collaborative development between PSA Group and BMW. It features direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides. The direct injection system, operating at high pressure, optimizes fuel atomization for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was chosen for its smoothness and efficiency. It features a torque converter and electronically controlled gear changes. While not known for being particularly sporty, the transmission is generally reliable and provides adequate performance for everyday driving. The engine’s 165 horsepower output and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque are delivered relatively early in the rev range, contributing to good low-end responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 THP automatic C4 Grand Picasso offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 8.3 seconds, which is respectable for a seven-seat MPV. The automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, although it can sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness, but gains in ease of use, particularly in urban traffic. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine doesn’t always feel overly powerful when fully loaded. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well, but this comes at the expense of some body roll in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 THP automatic typically came in higher trim levels, such as ‘Feel’ or ‘Exclusive’ depending on the specific market. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, rear parking sensors, and automatic headlights and wipers. Higher trims added features like panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on lower trims and leather on higher ones. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 Grand Picasso utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent twist beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) are standard safety features. Steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The vehicle’s relatively high weight (around 1320 kg / 2910 lbs) necessitates a robust braking system to ensure adequate stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 THP automatic C4 Grand Picasso was generally well-received by critics as a practical and comfortable family vehicle. It offered a good level of space, versatility, and fuel efficiency. Compared to the diesel-powered variants, the 1.6 THP offered a smoother and quieter driving experience, but with slightly higher fuel consumption. The petrol engine was also considered more refined than the earlier 1.6 VTi naturally aspirated engine. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the turbocharger and direct injection system. Fuel economy figures of around 40-48 mpg (US) were typical in real-world driving.
Legacy
The 1.6 THP engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly with frequent short journeys. Regular servicing and the use of quality fuel can help mitigate this risk. The six-speed Aisin automatic transmission is considered durable and relatively trouble-free. Today, the C4 Grand Picasso 1.6 THP automatic represents a good value proposition on the used car market, offering a spacious and well-equipped MPV at an affordable price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for carbon buildup and ensure the vehicle has been properly maintained.
