![]()
Hatchback
Citroen’s stylists got their bravery back when they launched the C4 in the autumn of 2005. Although it doesn’t suit everyone, there are plenty of fans of the curvy five-door hatchback and the sporting coupe.
expand / collapse
Inside, the C4 is radically different, too, but, again, the multi-function electronic read-outs are not to everyone’s taste. Similarly, the steering wheel has a fixed boss that keeps the controls mounted on it in position, and this takes a lot of getting used to. Sloping sides make the cabin feel small and the boot is not the biggest in the class. However, safety, with electronic driver aids and a full six airbags, is excellent. The 1.4-litre petrol engine feels on the weak side, but the rest of the range is adequate. Unlike many previous Citroens, the C4 has a firm ride. The light steering needs more feel, although the C4 still turns into corners sharply.
Running Costs
Provided you stick to the smaller engines and the less plush trim levels, insurance costs are very affordable. Much of the range falls into groups 4, 5 and 6. It’s only when you venture up to the 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines that this rises to group 10. The 178bhp 2.0 16v VTS 180bhp coupe is the worst offender, in group 15. Fuel economy is good throughout the range. The 1.6 16v VTR petrol returns 39.8mpg, proving that you don’t always have to go for a diesel. If you do, however, the benefits are there to be had. Choose either of the 1.6 HDI engines, and you’ll be looking at a claimed overall fuel figure of 60.1mpg, even if that translates into nearer 50mpg in the real world. Servicing costs are marginally more than for a Ford Focus, but the C4 is still an easy and affordable car to maintain.