There is a new Citroen C4 model range that it says will target the hatchback market despite the car having clear SUV characteristics. Confused? It will take over from the C4 Cactus, which was originally a crossover then became a hatchback. Again, confused? The airbumps may be long gone at this stage, but the new C4 does carry a cursory nod to the original Citroen GS in how the rear quarter is designed.
The front is equally distinctive thanks to the V-shaped LED light signatures that draws your eyes in towards the company's double chevron logo. Considering the market segment that Citroen is targeting, the fastback sloping roof may deter some, though it does stand out from the rest. The side profile bears some resemblance to the Mazda MX-30, which is also electric. Heavily sculpted lines are a big part of the Citroen's design, and these include two large scoops from the bonnet.
As for the interior, well, it's the typical slightly quirky design that we're used to seeing from Citroen, though it is also fairly minimalist. A 10-inch touchscreen display sits atop the centre console and there are some physical dials for the adjustment of climate control. We'll have to wait until we can get our hands on it to see what the cabin quality is like, though there appears to be a lot of dark plastics in use which could leave it feeling cheap. Six different interior designs will be available and this is in addition to a choice of seven exterior colours and five colour packs. The wheel sizes will range from 16 to 18 inches.
A choice of engine options
Taking centre stage at the debut is the electric version, that Citroen calls the ë-C4. Like other brands from the PSA Goupe portfolio, the ë-C4 gets a 50kWh lithium-ion battery coupled with an electric motor with a 136hp that drives the front wheels through a single-speed automatic transmission. According to WLTP test figures, the Citroen ë-C4 will have a single charge driving range of 350 kilometres. It has the same 150km/h top speed as the Peugeot e-2008 and will reach 100km/h from rest in 9.7 seconds. Fast charging at 100kW rates is useful if you're near to one, and Peugeot also offers the option to upgrade the onboard charger to an 11kW unit.
If you aren't in a position to switch to an electric car, the Citroen C4 will also be available with a choice of diesel and petrol engines. Two power outputs are available with the BlueHDi diesels starting with a six-speed manual with 110hp. A more powerful 130hp version comes with an eight-speed automatic. On the petrol front, there are a selection of engines available ranging in power from 100hp with a six-speed manual to a range-topping 155hp version with an eight-speed automatic.
Comfort at all times
Citroen is keen to ensure that customers will ride in comfort in whichever C4 they choose. It will equip all models, including the electric version, with its Progressive Hydraulic Cushion suspension. This system already features in the C5 Aircross and is comfortable, as are the Advanced Comfort Seats. Actually, these are more like armchairs than car seats, but along with the suspension, we think few will complain about the lack of waftability in the new C4.
The order books for the new Citroen C4 and ë-C4 will open in the autumn.