Citroën C4 review: comfort above all else

It does not take much observation to conclude that, in the C-segment - the category occupied by the new Citroën C4 - the benchmark formula is usually set by one model: the Volkswagen Golf.

After years upon years at the top, the German model has become the reference point, and many cars have attempted to recreate Volkswagen’s approach. Many, though not all.

The new Citroën C4 arrives from France intending to compete in the segment with a distinctly French recipe: a focus on comfort and a distinctive appearance.

But does it have what it takes? Has it managed to reproduce the successful formula that underpinned many of its predecessors? To find out, we tested the C4 with its most powerful petrol engine, the 130 PS 1.2 PureTech, paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

It certainly looks the part

Ever since childhood, I have associated Citroën with styling unlike that of the rest of the car market. The reason? A neighbour’s Citroën BX, which fascinated me every morning with its hydropneumatic suspension and partially covered rear wheels.

It was therefore pleasing to see Citroën once again giving the C4 an “out-of-the-box” design. Will it appeal to everyone? Of course not. Then again, neither did models such as the Ami 6, GS or BX, and that did not prevent them from becoming successful.

Combining a coupé crossover with a hatchback, the new C4 is impossible to overlook - whether because of its distinctive front light signature or the spoiler that splits the rear window, which lacks a rear wiper. It could hardly be more different from the generic, anonymous appearance of the previous C4, excluding the C4 Cactus.

Interestingly, the cabin has a more restrained design, although it remains highly practical. Most materials are hard, but their textured finishes make them visually pleasing, while the assembly quality leaves no room for criticism.

There are also physical climate-control buttons - something ergonomics appreciates - alongside an infotainment system that is straightforward yet comprehensive to operate. The digital instrument panel has a relatively small display, but it is well complemented by the optional, though almost essential, head-up display.

Citroën C4 comfort comes first

Just as the new C4 lives up to its predecessors in terms of styling boldness, this French model also delivers on comfort.

At a time when many manufacturers seem to be pursuing handling more suited to sports cars, it is refreshing that Citroën has chosen the opposite route and once more made comfort its priority.

The C4’s dynamic abilities are still perfectly respectable. Its steering is direct and sufficiently precise, although the body does lean somewhat when the C4 is pushed close to its handling limits. With that in mind, do not expect the new C4 to become the “king of the Nürburgring”, because that is not its purpose.

Instead, the C4 proves to be a good long-distance companion and the “king” of broken roads, gliding over some larger imperfections without making you realise that you have just driven across a miniature lunar crater.

Considering that many roads resemble country tracks more than a racing circuit, this emphasis on comfort may not be such a bad thing. On smoothly surfaced motorways, it offers reassuring stability, comfortable seats and sound insulation that, although a step behind some German rivals, does not disappoint.

The 1.2 PureTech engine is well matched to the smooth eight-speed automatic transmission and is at its best in “Normal” driving mode. In this setting, it can achieve respectable fuel economy - I recorded an average of 5.5 l/100 km - without compromising performance, allowing for a brisk pace.

In “Eco” mode, the 130 PS feels lethargic and the accelerator pedal becomes considerably less responsive, so this mode is best reserved for long motorway journeys at cruising speed. “Sport” mode may appear to make the engine more eager, but it ultimately runs somewhat counter to the new C4’s more relaxed and comfortable character.

Is this the right car for you?

If you are looking for a compact family car that stands apart from its rivals in several respects - from its looks to its very character - the Citroën C4 could easily be the segment’s most interesting alternative.

It does not have the restraint of the Volkswagen Golf, the dynamic handling of the Ford Focus or Honda Civic, nor the space offered by the Škoda Scala. However, it is probably the most comfortable car in the segment, and it is refreshing to see a C-segment offering aimed at the needs of a different kind of buyer.