The Citroen C4 L Sedan, specifically the Phase II model produced from 2016 to 2018, represented Citroen’s entry into the competitive compact sedan market, particularly aimed at regions like China and South America where sedan body styles are highly favored. This variant, equipped with the 1.6 VTi 16V engine producing 116 horsepower, occupied a mid-range position within the C4 L Sedan lineup, offering a balance between affordability and reasonable performance. It served as a stepping stone between the base models and the more powerful, often turbocharged, options available. The C4 L Sedan itself was a lengthened version of the European-market C4, designed to provide increased rear passenger space and appeal to customers prioritizing comfort and practicality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 L Sedan (Phase II, 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 VTi 16V (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 189 km/h (117.44 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 87.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm, 112.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 6050 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4000 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EP6 |
| Engine displacement | 1587 cm3 (96.84 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78.5 mm (3.09 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1330 kg (2932.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1790 kg (3946.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4644 mm (182.83 in.) |
| Width | 1789 mm (70.43 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1915 mm (75.39 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2057 mm (80.98 in.) |
| Height | 1513-1518 mm (59.57 – 59.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2708 mm (106.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Front overhang | 984 mm (38.74 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 952 mm (37.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 176 mm (6.93 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 | 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 |
| 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 PSA Group’s EP6 engine, a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The EP6 engine is known for its relatively simple design and robust construction. It doesn’t employ forced induction (turbocharging or supercharging), relying instead on displacement and optimized combustion to produce its power output. The engine code ‘EP6’ is a common designation for this powerplant across various PSA-branded vehicles. The 5-speed manual transmission paired with this engine was a standard unit, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and reliability. It features a conventional gear layout, prioritizing smooth shifts and durability over sporty performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 VTi 16V engine, producing 116 horsepower, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 10.4 seconds, and the top speed is around 117 mph. However, it’s not a particularly quick car. The power delivery is linear, with peak torque of 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) available at 4000 rpm. This means that the engine requires to be revved to access its full potential. Compared to higher-output versions of the C4 L Sedan, such as those equipped with turbocharged engines, this variant feels noticeably less responsive. The 5-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering a reasonable spread of gears for both city and highway driving. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 VTi 16V trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features like ABS and front airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered options like alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a sunroof. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with higher trims offering partial leather options. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over luxurious aesthetics.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 L Sedan 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. The braking system is adequate for normal driving conditions, but it lacks the stopping power of more performance-oriented models. The electric power steering provides light and easy steering feel, making it convenient for maneuvering in urban environments.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 VTi 16V variant of the C4 L Sedan was generally well-received as a practical and affordable option. Critics praised its comfortable ride and spacious interior, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the turbocharged versions, the 1.6L engine offered better fuel economy but significantly less power. Its reliability was considered average, with some reports of minor issues with the fuel injection system and ignition coils. However, overall, the EP6 engine proved to be a durable and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The Citroen C4 L Sedan 1.6 VTi 16V, while not a standout performer, remains a viable option in the used car market. Its relatively simple mechanical design and readily available parts contribute to its affordability and ease of maintenance. The EP6 engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service. While it may not appeal to driving enthusiasts, it offers a comfortable and practical transportation solution for those seeking a budget-friendly compact sedan.
