The Citroen C4 II Hatchback 1.6 e-HDi, produced between 2010 and 2012, represented a significant step in Citroen’s efforts to blend fuel efficiency with practicality in the compact family car segment. This variant, powered by a 1.6-liter diesel engine producing 112 horsepower and paired with a six-speed electronically controlled gearbox (EGS), occupied a mid-range position within the C4 II lineup, appealing to buyers seeking lower running costs without sacrificing comfort or space. It was part of the first phase (Phase I) of the second-generation C4, built on the PSA Peugeot Citroen’s Platform 2 (PF2) architecture, also known as the 1HX0 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Hatchback (Phase I, 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 e-HDi (112 Hp) EGS |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 101 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 86.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 112 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 9HR 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 | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1825 kg (4023.44 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1183 l (41.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4329 mm (170.43 in.) |
| Width | 1789 mm (70.43 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2050 mm (80.71 in.) |
| Height | 1489-1502 mm (58.62 – 59.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1522-1536 mm (59.92 – 60.47 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1515-1529 mm (59.65 – 60.2 in.) |
| Front overhang | 935 mm (36.81 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 786 mm (30.94 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 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 | 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 variant is the 9HR DV6FC engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of the DV6 family, widely used across PSA Group vehicles. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The e-HDi designation signifies the inclusion of Stop & Start technology, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The six-speed EGS (Electronically Controlled Gearbox) transmission is a semi-automatic system. It’s essentially a conventional manual gearbox, but gear changes are automated by actuators controlled by the engine management system. While offering some of the convenience of a full automatic, the EGS was known for its sometimes jerky shifts compared to traditional torque converter automatics.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 e-HDi with the EGS transmission delivers a respectable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. With 112 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 10.6 seconds, and top speed is around 118 mph. The EGS transmission, while improving fuel economy, doesn’t offer the smoothness of a conventional automatic. Shifts can be noticeable, particularly at lower speeds. The engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, with the torque being readily available from 1750 rpm, making it suitable for overtaking and navigating hills. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter HDi variants, this 1.6L engine feels less responsive, but it compensates with significantly better fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 e-HDi typically came in mid-range trim levels, such as ‘Comfort’ or ‘Exclusive’ depending on the market. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and wipers, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for partial leather trim. The dashboard layout was functional and modern for its time, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 II 1.6 e-HDi was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It offered a compelling alternative to petrol-powered rivals, particularly for drivers covering high mileages. However, the EGS transmission received mixed reviews, with some testers finding it clunky and unresponsive. Compared to the more powerful diesel variants, the 1.6 e-HDi offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. Against competitors like the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, and Peugeot 308, the C4 II offered a distinctive French design and a comfortable ride.
Legacy
The 9HR DV6FC engine proved to be a relatively reliable unit, although like all diesel engines, it’s susceptible to issues related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not properly maintained. Regular oil changes and occasional long journeys to allow the DPF to regenerate are crucial. The EGS transmission, while innovative, is known to be more complex than a traditional automatic and can be more expensive to repair. Today, the C4 II 1.6 e-HDi represents a good value proposition on the used car market, offering a comfortable and economical driving experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the DPF and EGS transmission.
