Citroen C4
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a family car that stands out from the crowd? The Citroen C4 might be exactly what you need. This distinctive compact hatchback blends the practicality of a traditional family car with the elevated driving position and rugged styling of an SUV. It’s designed for drivers who want something different without sacrificing comfort or value for money.

The C4 takes a bold approach to design that sets it apart from conventional family hatchbacks. Its raised ride height and plastic body cladding give it a crossover appearance, while the coupe-like roofline adds a touch of style. Available in both petrol and electric versions, the C4 offers flexibility to suit different driving needs and budgets.

What really impresses about the C4 is how Citroen has prioritised comfort and practicality. The interior feels spacious and airy, with plenty of room for passengers and luggage. The ride quality is exemplary, soaking up bumps and road imperfections with ease. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive, it excels at making everyday journeys comfortable and stress-free. For families seeking a practical, comfortable, and distinctive alternative to mainstream hatchbacks, the C4 delivers excellent value.

What's the Citroen C4 Like to Drive?

The Citroen C4 range offers a choice of efficient engines designed for relaxed, comfortable driving. The petrol lineup includes a 1.2-litre PureTech engine with 100 or 130 horsepower, providing adequate performance for most situations. The 130hp version offers the best balance of power and economy, managing 0-60mph in around 9.5 seconds while returning impressive fuel economy. For those wanting zero emissions driving, the e-C4 electric version delivers 136hp and a real-world range of around 220 miles.

On the road, the C4 prioritises comfort over sportiness. The suspension setup is tuned for maximum passenger comfort, absorbing road imperfections beautifully but resulting in some body roll through corners. The steering is light and easy, making parking effortless but lacking the precision that driving enthusiasts might crave. This compact hatchback excels on longer journeys where its refined ride quality and low noise levels really shine. It’s a car that makes every trip feel relaxed and unhurried.

Inside the Citroen C4: Comfort & Features

Step inside the C4 and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels more spacious than many traditional hatchbacks. The elevated seating position provides excellent visibility while making entry and exit easier for passengers of all ages. The dashboard features Citroen’s distinctive design language with a central touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster that’s clear and easy to read. Materials feel solid and well-assembled, with soft-touch surfaces on key contact points.

The front seats deserve special mention for their exceptional comfort. Citroen has fitted Advanced Comfort seats as standard, with thick cushioning and excellent support for long journeys. Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and headroom, making the C4 genuinely comfortable for four adults. The cabin is impressively quiet at motorway speeds, with effective sound insulation keeping road and wind noise to a minimum. Standard equipment includes smartphone connectivity, climate control, and a good selection of safety features that add to the premium feel.

The Citroen C4 succeeds brilliantly at being different while remaining practical and affordable. Its distinctive crossover styling, exceptional ride comfort, and efficient engines make it an appealing alternative to conventional family hatchbacks. The interior is genuinely impressive for the price point, with comfort levels that rival much more expensive cars. The electric e-C4 version adds zero-emissions driving to the package.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Citroen C4?

The C4 impresses with its low running costs across the range. The petrol engines are highly efficient, with real-world fuel economy easily reaching 45-50 mpg in mixed driving conditions. The electric e-C4 is even more economical, offering running costs as low as 3p per mile when charged at home. Insurance groups are reasonable for the class, typically falling between groups 15-20 depending on the specification chosen.

Purchase prices are competitive, with the C4 often offering better value than premium German rivals. The electric version qualifies for government grants and exemption from road tax, making it particularly attractive for company car drivers. Citroen’s warranty coverage is comprehensive, providing peace of mind for new car buyers. When it comes to financing, flexible car finance options make the C4 accessible to a wide range of budgets. Overall running costs are among the best in class, especially when you factor in the car’s comfort and equipment levels.

Is the Citroen C4 Practical for Everyday Use?

For a car that prioritises style, the C4 is surprisingly practical. The 380-litre boot is a decent size for the class, easily accommodating a week’s shopping or several suitcases for a family holiday. The rear seats fold flat to create a larger loading area when needed, and the wide tailgate opening makes loading bulky items straightforward. Inside the cabin, storage solutions include door bins, cup holders, and a useful cubby under the central armrest.

The elevated driving position provides excellent all-around visibility, making the C4 easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces despite its distinctive styling. Rear passenger space is generous for adults, with good legroom and headroom that surpasses many traditional hatchbacks. While it may not match the ultimate practicality of larger SUVs, the C4 strikes an excellent balance for families who want distinctive styling without sacrificing everyday usability. It’s particularly well-suited to used Citroen cars buyers seeking something different from the mainstream.

The Citroen C4 carves out its own niche in the competitive family car market by combining distinctive crossover styling with exceptional comfort and strong value for money. It successfully delivers a premium driving experience at a mainstream price point, with particular strengths in ride quality, interior space, and fuel efficiency. The availability of both petrol and electric powertrains adds flexibility for different needs and budgets.

You choose the C4 because you want something different without compromising on practicality or affordability. Its distinctive looks, comfortable ride, and spacious interior make it ideal for families who value comfort over sportiness. Whether you opt for the efficient petrol engines or the zero-emission electric version, you’ll find excellent cars under £30,000 that deliver exceptional everyday usability with a touch of French flair.