2014 saw the introduction of the quirky little SUV Citron C4 Cactus, which was created for people who wished to stand out from the crowd while still pursuing a practical, pleasant, and fuel-efficient driving experience.
Few cars in its class look as adorable, thus it succeeds on the style front without a doubt. Additionally, like its smaller C3 sibling, the vehicle is now compellingly affordable on the used market. On paper, everything seems quite tempting, but how does the C4 Cactus perform in practice?
The new C4 is it an SUV?
Citroen’s third-generation C4 family hatchback is an all-new design that replaces the previous model’s drab exterior and features plenty of French flare. The newest C4’s coupe-SUV style makes it stand out in an increasingly competitive market while reiterating the company’s commitment to comfort and cutting-edge technology.
The Stellantis/PSA Group CMP platform, which has primarily been utilized for smaller vehicles like the Peugeot 208 and Vauxhall Corsa, is what the C4 is built on. Citroen has used this easier, less expensive construction in a creative way to save costs while ensuring that the C4 has the largest wheelbase possible to maximize interior space.
How big is a Citroen C4?
With the C4, a hip coupe crossover-style hatchback, Citroen has boldly reentered the family car market. For the widest possible appeal, it comes in petrol, diesel, and totally electric versions.
Comparing the new C4 to the previous model’s forgettable predecessor is like contrasting the headline dish at your neighborhood French cafe with a plate of past-it lettuce since the new C4 has an SUV-like appearance and sofa-like comfort. Although it is a lot more recognizable and endearing vehicle, it still isn’t as enjoyable to drive as some alternatives.
However, it is immediately apparent that this is not the same boring Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus competition. The previous vehicle’s exterior style, which successfully combines SUV-like presence with coupe-hatch svelteness, makes it appear more dated than a fax machine.
There is a new set of LED lights that are crisper and more assertive than the ones on older Citroens. In comparison to previous Citroens, which often have a softer, more rounded appearance, it also has a significantly more sporty shape. It more closely resembles other price-range vehicles with crisp styling, including the SEAT Leon.
The interior of the Citroen C4 isn’t as unique as that of the previous Citroen C4 Cactus, but it’s still likely the best cabin you’ve ever seen from the French manufacturer. There are several soft-touch elements and a general sense of solidity that were uncommon in older Citroens. Even though it’s not exactly an Audi, it readily meets the threshold for that class.
Due to its SUV-like design, the Citroen C4 appears physically larger than rivals like the Volkswagen Golf. However, it has a 380-liter boot, which is at best average for a family car its size.
Although the electric e-C4 omits the base specification, there are four trim levels: Sense, Sense Plus, Shine, and Shine Plus.
A 10-inch infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, and dual-zone climate control are standard on all versions. Although Sense Plus is likely the most economical option, the higher-end variants are fairly well-equipped.
It sticks out from the family hatch throng and appears to be the offspring of an SUV and a quick coupe.
When it comes to engines, the C4 offers a wide variety. There are two diesel variants, three gasoline types, and the electric-only e-C4 model.
The 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel PureTech model has either 110hp or 130hp, and the 1.2-liter three-cylinder PureTech petrol variant offers 100hp, 130hp, and 155hp. Only manual transmissions are available for the 100 horsepower gasoline and 110 horsepower diesel, while automatic transmissions are the only option for the 155 horsepower gasoline and 130 horsepower diesel. You can select the gearbox of your choice for the 130hp gasoline engine.
Even the standard gasoline provides more than enough speed, but the 130 horsepower version is what we would recommend. Additionally, it is economical, rendering diesel somewhat unnecessary unless you spend half of your time on highways.
This is not the kind of car that will have you tearing around B-roads like you’re on a rally stage, regardless of the engine you choose. Citroen has purposefully prioritized comfort over all other factors, resulting in a smooth ride with minimal wind and road noise. On the other hand, the body leans over somewhat in curves, and the steering lacks the assurance of the best-driving family hatchbacks.
However, if you don’t want to drive like your hair is on fire, why not see how much money you can save on a Citroen C4 on our specials page?