The Citroën C4 II Hatchback 1.6 e-HDI VTR+ represents a significant offering in the compact family car segment, produced between 2011 and 2012 as part of the second-generation C4 (B7) series. This variant, powered by a 1.6-liter diesel engine producing 112 horsepower, was positioned as a mid-range trim level, balancing fuel efficiency with a reasonable level of equipment. It played a key role in Citroën’s strategy to offer economical and practical vehicles within the European market, capitalizing on the growing demand for diesel-powered hatchbacks.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroën |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Hatchback (Phase I, 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 e-HDI (112 Hp) VTR+ |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (64.2 UK mpg, 53.5 US mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4 l/100 km (83.1 UK mpg, 69.2 US mpg, 29.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (74.3 UK mpg, 61.9 US mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 97 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 112 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| 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 | 1275 kg (2810.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 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 | 675 kg (1488.12 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | 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 |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the C4 1.6 e-HDI VTR+ is the PSA Group’s DV6FC engine, specifically the 9HR variant. This 1.6-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine utilizes common-rail direct injection and a variable geometry turbocharger with an intercooler. The ‘e-HDI’ designation signifies the inclusion of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 5 emission standards. The engine produces 112 horsepower at 3600 rpm and a respectable 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. This torque output, available relatively low in the rev range, is a key characteristic of modern diesel engines, providing good in-gear acceleration. The engine features a 16:1 compression ratio and 2 valves per cylinder. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 e-HDI engine, paired with the 6-speed manual gearbox, delivers a practical and efficient driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.7 seconds, and top speed is rated at 190 km/h (118 mph). The relatively high torque output makes overtaking at highway speeds manageable, although it requires downshifting. The gear ratios are well-chosen to maximize fuel economy and provide a comfortable cruising experience. Compared to higher-output versions of the C4, such as those with the 2.0-liter HDi engine, the 1.6 e-HDI feels less responsive, but it compensates with significantly better fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The VTR+ trim level offered a good balance of features. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD stereo with auxiliary input, remote central locking, and ABS brakes. The interior featured cloth upholstery and a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras available for the VTR+ included alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system. The VTR+ trim sat above the entry-level LX trim and below the more luxurious Exclusive trim.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 II 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, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than outright handling prowess, prioritizing ride quality over sporty dynamics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën C4 1.6 e-HDI VTR+ was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It offered a compelling alternative to petrol-powered rivals, particularly for drivers covering high mileages. Compared to other trims in the C4 lineup, the 1.6 e-HDI offered the best fuel economy, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious buyers. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Reliability was generally good, although, like all diesel vehicles, the DPF could require occasional maintenance.
Legacy
The 1.6 e-HDI engine became a popular choice in various PSA Group vehicles, known for its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs. While the C4 II is no longer in production, the 1.6 e-HDI variants remain relatively common on the used car market. The engine’s durability and the availability of spare parts contribute to its continued appeal. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the DPF and the importance of using high-quality diesel fuel to prevent injector issues. Overall, the Citroën C4 1.6 e-HDI VTR+ represents a sensible and economical choice for those seeking a practical family hatchback.
