Citroen C4 Driver Impression Car Reviews

There's no denying a certain sameness creeping into some manufacturers' latest offerings. Heavily detailed bodies with folds and creases that resemble metalwork origami are becoming the norm. This doesn't apply to the new Citroën C4, moving away from the trend with its more rounded and uncluttered shape.

The curvy newcomer not only shares an obvious family resemblance to its C3 sibling, but also a chromosome or two with the archetypal 2CV. The coupe's reversed rake rear screen provides some additional Gallic flair.

Citroën's designers have been busy under the skin as well. Dispensing with traditional gauges, a translucent pod mounted above the central dash displays important primary information. There are no excuses for speeding. Lit by ambient light the prominent LCD numerals are impossible to miss. Even more interesting is the fixed hub steering wheel. Multi function switches housed in its perimeter look after cruise control, audio and other minor functions - although the horn button seems an afterthought. Being stationary means they're also easier to use. More importantly, the feature allows for a larger driver's airbag, its shape optimized for added safety.

Building on its five star Euro-NCAP result, the C4 is also the most pedestrian "friendly" car tested to date. Helping reduce injury are an aluminium bonnet, plastic front guards and crash absorbing safety structures located behind the front bar. The C4's rounded nose is designed to deflect the unwitting passenger onto the bonnet. Keeping engine bay hardpoints away from the front of the C4 also reduces injury, as do “soft” wiper blades.

Another safety feature - available as an option later this year, is the LDWS (Lane Departure Warning System). At speeds above 80km/h the system will detect a wandering car by "reading" the lane markers crossing under it. The appropriate side of the driver's seat cushion vibrates as a warning and hopefully the inattentive or drowsy driver takes corrective action.

Positioned at the premium end of the hatchback sector, the C4 range consists of a 1.6 or 2.0 five-door hatch or 2 door coupe. A 1.6 HDi diesel hatch arrives later in the year.

Standard equipment
Airconditioning (dual zone climate control on 2.0 versions), power steering, CD radio, cruise control with speed limiter, trip computer, power front windows (all four on 2.0 hatch), power mirrors, alloy wheels (2.0 versions).

Standard safety equipment
Dual front airbags, side front airbags, curtain airbags, ABS brakes with EBD and Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Program (2.0 versions), front seatbelt pretensioners, force limiters on outer rear belts, seatbelt warning lights on all seats, "follow me home" lights, steerable xenon headlights (2.0 coupe only).

Options
Metallic paint, panoramic glass roof, five-stack CD player, leather upholstery (2.0 versions).

Drive Impression

2.0 hatchback / 2.0 VTS coupe

Of course the first thing you want to try out in the C4 is the steering wheel. Not to assess the handling or feel, but to see the centre stay put as you turn a corner. While it's an innovative and practical idea after 100m you don't even notice it. Another feature standard across the range, but more subtle, is the perfume dispenser. There are nine "flavours" available, although I don't think "essence de road rage" is available. Both hatch and coupe share wheelbase dimensions, so interior space is virtually identical, the coupe's large doors easing entry to the rear. Interior storage is limited and the optional five-stack CD fills the space under the centre armrest. Storing items in the luggage area is easy - a fold-away partitioning system keeping things organised.

There's no missing the large speedo readout from the translucent dash display and the trip computer is clearly legible. But the climate control display is set below the radio and is awkward to make out on the move. A small binnacle above the steering wheel houses the headlight warning lights and indicators plus a bar graph style tacho - which flashes red at the rev limit.

First impressions of the 2.0 hatchback are positive.

The 103kW engine feels flexible and smooth and at higher speeds doesn't produce any intrusive mechanical noise. Mated to a four-speed automatic the shift quality is good, but not seamless. Accelerating from low speed the transmission sometimes feels caught out, changing into gear with a noticeable hiccup. Handling and roadholding are very good, although larger bumps will send a shudder through the cabin. The chassis certainly sends plenty of feedback through the wheel, and at highway speeds there is slight oversteer in tighter corners. While initially the hatch's seats feel comfortable, over longer distances they start to feel flat and unsupportive.

Moving onto the 2.0 VTS coupe, the most noticeable difference is the seats. More sports oriented than the hatch, the coupe's provided excellent support and comfort. But it loses out in footspace. Only available as a five-speed manual, there is a noticeable lack of room next to the clutch pedal - not ideal on longer trips.

The five-speed's slightly rubbery shift quality is typically European, but it's direct enough, with a light action. Add the coupe's extra 27kW into the mix and you have a fun touring car that takes full advantage of its chassis, although the ride still gets harsh over poorer bitumen. Brakingperformance is excellent, the VTS coupe's larger front discs providing more than enough stopping power.

Positioned at the premium end of its segment, Citroën's C4 hatch and coupe offer buyers the individuality expected of the marque along with enjoyable chassis dynamics and impressive safety credentials.