Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Hatchback (Phase I, 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 146 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 99.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 132.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4250 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FS EP6C |
| 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 | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1765 kg (3891.16 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 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%) | 1524 kg (3359.84 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 640 kg (1410.96 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 | 5 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 |
The Citroen C4 II Hatchback 1.6 VTi (120 hp) represents a mid-range offering within the second generation of Citroen’s popular C4 compact. Introduced as part of the Phase I refresh in 2011 and continuing through 2014, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with reasonable performance for the European market. It occupied a position between the base 1.4 VTi models and the more powerful, though less economical, 1.6 THP and diesel options. The C4 II, built on the PSA Peugeot Citroen EMP2 platform, sought to modernize the C4’s appeal with a more refined interior and improved driving dynamics compared to its predecessor.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 1.6 VTi engine, designated the 5FS EP6C, is a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder petrol engine. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. This engine is part of the PSA Group’s ‘Prince’ engine family, known for its relatively lightweight construction and focus on efficiency. The 120 hp output is achieved at 6000 rpm, while peak torque of 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) arrives at 4250 rpm. The engine’s 11:1 compression ratio contributes to its efficiency. The C4 1.6 VTi typically came equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, although a four-speed automatic was also available, albeit less common. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, was known for its less responsive shifts compared to the manual.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 VTi engine in the C4 II provides adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 10.8 seconds. The engine feels most comfortable in the mid-range, offering sufficient power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. However, it requires the driver to work the engine harder when climbing hills or carrying a full load. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 THP turbocharged engine, the 1.6 VTi lacks the immediate punch and responsiveness. The automatic transmission, when equipped, further diminishes the sense of urgency, with noticeable delays between gear changes. The manual transmission offers a more engaging driving experience and allows for better control over the engine’s power band.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 VTi trim level in the C4 II typically included standard features such as air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD stereo with auxiliary input, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as Exclusive, added features like alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, rear parking sensors, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and leather upholstery.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 II utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. 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 braking performance and stability. The C4’s suspension tuning prioritizes comfort over sporty handling, resulting in a slightly softer and more forgiving ride compared to some of its rivals.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 II 1.6 VTi was generally well-received by critics as a practical and comfortable family hatchback. However, its performance was often considered adequate rather than exciting. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg). Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6 VTi offered lower running costs in terms of fuel, but potentially higher maintenance costs due to the complexities of the petrol engine. The 1.6 THP offered significantly more performance but at the expense of fuel economy. The 1.4 VTi was even more economical but lacked the power of the 1.6 VTi.
Legacy
The 5FS EP6C 1.6 VTi engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with the timing chain in some instances, particularly with higher mileage examples. Regular oil changes and preventative maintenance are crucial for ensuring its longevity. In the used car market, the C4 II 1.6 VTi represents a relatively affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a comfortable and fuel-efficient hatchback. Its simplicity and lack of complex technology compared to newer models make it an attractive choice for those seeking a reliable and easy-to-maintain vehicle.
