The Citroen C4 II Hatchback, specifically the 1.6 BlueHDi 120 S&S Automatic variant produced between 2015 and 2018, represents a significant iteration of Citroen’s compact family car. This version falls within the Phase II update of the second-generation C4 (B7 platform), which aimed to refine the model’s styling, interior, and technology. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it catered to buyers seeking a balance between fuel efficiency, comfort, and ease of driving, particularly those preferring an automatic transmission. The C4 II aimed to compete with established rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308 in the highly competitive European C-segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Hatchback (Phase II, 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 BlueHDi (120 Hp) S&S Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.5-4.6 l/100 km (52.3 – 51.1 US mpg, 62.8 – 61.4 UK mpg, 22.2 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6-3.7 l/100 km (65.3 – 63.6 US mpg, 78.5 – 76.3 UK mpg, 27.8 – 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.9-4.0 l/100 km (60.3 – 58.8 US mpg, 72.4 – 70.6 UK mpg, 25.6 – 25 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 100-104 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp, 92.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 230.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| 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 | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 408 l (14.41 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) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 55 kg (121.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 685 kg (1510.17 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 | 1498-1502 mm (58.98 – 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 | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, 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 |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 variant is the 1.6-liter BlueHDi engine, specifically the BHZ DV6FC variant. This engine is a member of the PSA Group’s DV6 family, known for its robust design and fuel efficiency. It’s a four-cylinder, inline diesel engine featuring a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power output. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The 16:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, contributing to thermal efficiency. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and enhancing driving comfort. This transmission isn’t a dual-clutch unit, but a traditional torque-converter automatic, prioritizing smoothness over outright speed.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 BlueHDi automatic C4 offers a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. The 120 hp output, while not sporty, provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.5 seconds, and top speed is 119 mph. The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel economy, meaning gear changes are often subtle and prioritize efficiency over aggressive downshifts. Compared to the manual version of the same engine, the automatic feels slightly less responsive, but offers significantly more convenience. Higher-output versions of the C4, such as those with the 1.6 BlueHDi 150 hp engine, provide noticeably quicker acceleration, but at the expense of fuel economy. The relatively low weight of the C4 (around 2866 lbs) helps to mitigate the performance deficit compared to more powerful variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 BlueHDi 120 S&S Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and cruise control. The “S&S” designation indicates the inclusion of a Start & Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to save fuel. Higher trim levels offered options such as automatic headlights and wipers, rear parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded upholstery. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on practicality and durability.
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 effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 II 1.6 BlueHDi 120 S&S Automatic was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical interior. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel a bit sluggish at times, and the engine lacked the outright performance of some of its rivals. Compared to the 1.6 BlueHDi manual version, the automatic offered slightly lower fuel economy but greater convenience. The diesel engine provided significantly better fuel economy than the petrol (gasoline) options available in the C4 lineup, making it a popular choice for drivers covering long distances.
Legacy
The 1.6 BlueHDi engine, in its various iterations, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines, in general, have faced increased scrutiny in recent years, the BlueHDi engines are known for their relatively low emissions and long service life. The automatic transmission, while not the most technologically advanced, is generally reliable if properly maintained. On the used car market, the C4 II 1.6 BlueHDi 120 S&S Automatic represents a good value proposition, offering a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and practical family car at an affordable price. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial to ensure the longevity of this powertrain.
