C HERE 4 INNOVATION (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

The updated version of Citroen's third generation C4 remains a credible but properly distinctive family hatch. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 59

This improved version of the third generation C4 is a far more creditable offering for Citroen in the family hatchback sector. The looks are sharper, the cabin's smarter and the mild hybrid and EV drivetrains are well up to date. As before though, the really brand-specific bit is the clever suspension system which makes this contender feel really Citroen-esque.

Backgroundword count: 123

Back in 2020, the third generation C4 was launched as being 'Citroen to the core'. Well four years into production, the brand hopes that this extensive mid-term update will continue to set it apart in the combustion and EV parts of the family hatchback segment. 2022 saw the introduction of a C4 X saloon variant - which continues, but mild hybrid tech takes over from most of the conventional PureTech petrol engines at the foot of the range. Significant styling and interior updates feature with this improved design, bringing the C4 more into line with its segment rivals. And as before, this C4 plays to the things people tend to like about Citroen - innovative design, a distinctive feel and exemplary ride quality.

Engines and Tech Specword count: 243

As part of this update, Citroen has dispensed with most the pre-facelift model's un-electrified PureTech engines, so now if you want an affordable combustion-powered C4, your main choice is to opt for the brand's 48V mild hybrid tech. This was available before in Hybrid 136hp form, a variant now also joined by a more affordable Hybrid 100hp model. In both cases, the brand's familiar 1.2-litre three cylinder petrol unit is supported by a 28hp 48-volt electric motor energised by a tiny 0.4kWh battery pack. If you really don't want the hybrid-ised petrol unit, the brand will still sell you the old PureTech 130 engine mated to EAT8 auto transmission. The full-EV e-C4 options haven't changed, so as before you choose between 50kWh/136hp base version (with a 223 mile range) or a 54kWh/154hp model (with 264 miles). To boost this capability, the car can recover energy when decelerating or braking. And there are three drive modes - 'Eco', 'Normal' and 'Sport' - that can vary the level of engine power and the energy draw from the air conditioning to boost driving range. Citroen hopes that the way this car drives is what will sell it to you - or more specifically, the way this car rides. As before, it features a clever Progressive Hydraulic suspension set-up. Here, the car's springs and shock absorbers work in concert with hydraulic compression and rebound stops, which are supposed to slow body movement over bumps and tarmac tears.

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