2015-2018 DS 4 Crossback 1.6 THP (165 Hp) Stop&Start Automatic

The DS 4 Crossback 1.6 THP (165 Hp) Stop&Start Automatic, produced between 2015 and 2018, represents a distinctive offering within the DS 4 Crossback range. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it blended the practicality of a crossover body style with a relatively efficient and responsive turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This variant aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and stylish vehicle with decent performance and fuel economy, bridging the gap between the base models and the more powerful, premium trims. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where the DS brand, initially a sub-division of Citroën, sought to establish itself as a purveyor of sophisticated and technologically advanced vehicles.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

At the heart of the DS 4 Crossback 1.6 THP 165 Stop&Start Automatic lies the PSA-developed 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, internally designated as the 5GZ EP6FDT. This engine is part of the Prince engine family, a collaborative effort between PSA and BMW. The ‘THP’ designation stands for ‘Turbo High Pressure’, indicating the use of a twin-scroll turbocharger for improved responsiveness and reduced turbo lag. Direct fuel injection is employed, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chambers for precise control and enhanced efficiency. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for increased power output. The Stop&Start system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, such as at traffic lights, to conserve fuel and reduce emissions. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, provides smooth and efficient gear changes. It’s a conventional torque converter automatic, prioritizing comfort over outright performance.

Driving Characteristics

The 165 horsepower and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.6 THP engine, coupled with the six-speed automatic, provided a reasonably balanced driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) took approximately 9.5 seconds, making it competitive within its segment. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience compared to the manual transmission options. The engine offered a good spread of torque, making it tractable in everyday driving situations. However, it did require the transmission to downshift on steeper inclines or when overtaking. Compared to the more powerful DS 4 Crossback variants, such as those equipped with the 2.0 BlueHDi diesel engine, the 1.6 THP felt less effortless, particularly when fully loaded. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The DS 4 Crossback 1.6 THP 165 Stop&Start Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels (typically 17-inch), and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, navigation system, and parking sensors. The interior generally featured a modern and stylish design, with a focus on comfort and ergonomics. The dashboard layout was clean and intuitive, with most controls within easy reach of the driver.

Chassis & Braking

The DS 4 Crossback 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. The steering was electrically assisted, providing a light and precise feel. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, resulting in a slight degree of body roll during cornering. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll and improve stability.

Market Reception & Comparison

The DS 4 Crossback 1.6 THP 165 Stop&Start Automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and relatively fuel-efficient engine. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could be slow to respond and that the engine lacked the outright punch of some of its rivals. Compared to the diesel-powered DS 4 Crossback models, the 1.6 THP offered slightly lower fuel economy but a more refined and quieter driving experience. The 1.6 THP was often seen as a good all-rounder, appealing to buyers who prioritized comfort and style over outright performance.

Legacy

The 1.6 THP engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly in vehicles that primarily undertake short journeys. Regular servicing and the use of quality fuel can help mitigate this risk. The Aisin six-speed automatic transmission is generally considered to be a durable and reliable unit. In the used car market, the DS 4 Crossback 1.6 THP 165 Stop&Start Automatic represents a relatively affordable and stylish option. Its combination of comfort, fuel efficiency, and practicality continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for carbon buildup on the intake valves and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained.