The Citroen C4 L Sedan (Phase II), produced from 2016 to 2018, represented a significant offering in the compact sedan segment, particularly within markets like China and other regions where larger sedans remain popular. This variant, equipped with the 1.2 PureTech 12V engine producing 136 horsepower and paired with a six-speed manual transmission, occupied a middle ground within the C4 L Sedan lineup, balancing fuel efficiency with acceptable performance. It was positioned as a more accessible alternative to the higher-powered engine options, appealing to buyers prioritizing economy and practicality. The Phase II update brought styling refinements and minor technological improvements over the initial C4 L Sedan release.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 L Sedan (Phase II, 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 PureTech 12V (136 Hp) Manual 6-speed |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 97.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 165.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 113.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750-3500 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EB2 |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 435 l (15.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4675 mm (184.06 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2710 mm (106.69 in.) |
| 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, 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 L Sedan variant is the EB2 1.2 PureTech engine, a three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine is part of Citroen’s PureTech family, known for its efficiency and surprisingly strong output for its size. The 1.2L displacement is achieved through a relatively short stroke and oversquare design, favoring high-RPM performance. Direct fuel injection is employed, optimizing combustion and contributing to fuel economy. The engine utilizes a single scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to mitigate turbo lag and maintain consistent power delivery. The six-speed manual transmission was chosen to provide drivers with greater control and engagement, and to complement the engine’s torque characteristics. The EB2 engine is known for its timing chain, which, unlike timing belts, is designed to last the life of the engine, reducing maintenance costs.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 hp and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1.2 PureTech engine, coupled with the six-speed manual, offered a reasonably engaging driving experience. While not a performance-oriented setup, the engine delivered adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power from around 1750 rpm, making overtaking maneuvers manageable. The six-speed gearbox allows for efficient cruising at highway speeds, keeping engine RPMs relatively low. Compared to the higher-powered 1.6 THP engine option available in the C4 L Sedan, this 1.2L variant felt less urgent in its acceleration, but it offered superior fuel economy. The manual transmission, while engaging, required more driver involvement than the automatic options available on other C4 L Sedan trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 PureTech 136 hp manual variant typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, often denoted by additional packages, added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leatherette or full leather available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over extravagant design.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 L Sedan utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Electric power steering provided light and responsive steering feel, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth and relaxed driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C4 L Sedan, and specifically this 1.2 PureTech variant, was generally well-received for its fuel efficiency and value proposition. Critics praised the engine’s responsiveness and the car’s comfortable ride. However, some noted that the interior materials felt somewhat basic compared to competitors. Compared to other trims in the C4 L Sedan lineup, the 1.2 PureTech offered the best fuel economy, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The higher-powered 1.6 THP engine provided more performance but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The 1.2 PureTech’s reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the turbocharger and fuel injection system.
Legacy
The 1.2 PureTech engine has become a mainstay in the PSA Group (now Stellantis) lineup, powering numerous models across the Peugeot, Citroen, and DS brands. While early versions of the engine experienced some reliability concerns related to the timing chain, later iterations have proven to be more durable. The C4 L Sedan, while not a global bestseller, remains a popular choice in certain markets, particularly as a used car. The 1.2 PureTech 136 hp manual variant continues to offer a compelling combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability, making it a viable option for buyers seeking a comfortable and economical compact sedan.
