The family hatchback market is very competitive in the best of times, but now it looks about as hard as it gets. Anticipating a possible alternative to the transition, we have only the ubiquitous VW Golf and Ford Focus new just around the corner, but the first time in a long time there is a credible alternative to the stylish Alfa Romeo as well.
So if the new Citroen C4 excel in a very busy and talented crowd, will have to be good. Here we test for the first time in Britain, equipped with the most powerful diesel engine (2.0-liter, 148bhp). And that's fine motor - on paper, not as torquey as VW or Ford 2.0-liter engine, but in fact, engaging, easy to use and impressively refined. The six-speed gearbox (the only option with this engine) is to improve the precision of previous generations of weak-C4, but it's not exactly what I would call positive.
See photos of Citroen C4 HDi in action
How does it feel?
With regard to driving and handling, Citroen was a priority to comfortable and safe family car care, and nothing that could satisfy the enthusiast driver wants, that's very understandable. Even if you prefer to steer (weight pedals and electric power steering assist), more inspiring, there is no doubt that a stable car with good grip.
What is disappointing though comfort, while acceptable, is far from unique. In isolation, there is a lot of suspension and large smooth bumps and sharp edges, but when asked for a number of shots in quick succession to treat, or in combination with shear, the suspension was inadequate, resulting in poorly compensated primary direction or control setback.
Cockpit feel stronger and less gimmicky than previous architectures Citroën design and interesting solutions. There is sufficient time for the seat and steering wheel to adjust, but a large center console carries uncomfortably against his left leg.
But even in the car journey, better news. The rear dwelling is acceptable, while the rear doors (rear seat in place) to improve the Focus and Golf. This means that the assumption that you are not the optional Denon hi-fi upgrade (embedded here) to choose, making a hole in the fuselage.
Should I buy?
C4 2.0 HDI is only available in top spec Exclusive trim, the price of £ 21,495. Although buying more equipment as standard, it is a lot of awards from Citroen. Golf 2.0 GT TDI 140 is 21,380 pounds, the current Focus Titanium trim is £ 19,095, while £ 21,195 will buy a stronger Giulietta 2.0 JDTm, although in the mid-spec Lusso spec
As C4 was the only car you could ever manage to find something wrong with him because most standards is a good product. However, the market average class moved out just fine.
Whether the Focus, Golf, Juliet, Hyundai i30 or Skoda Octavia, each has a compelling reason to recommend, and unfortunately a reality that for C4, boat to shore, it offers little to grab our attention. And even if the injury is more inclusive.
Jamie Corstorphine
Citroen C4 2.0 HDi Exclusive
Price: £ 21,495, top speed: 126 mph 0-62 mph: 8.6sec; Economy: 56.5mpg (combined) CO2: 130 g / km, Empty Weight: 1501 kg Engine: 4 cyls in line, 1997CC, turbo diesel Power: 148bhp at 3750rpm, torque: £ 218 m at 2000 rpm Transmission 6-spd Manual
