The Citroën C4 II Hatchback, specifically the 1.6 BlueHDi (99 hp) S&S 86g variant produced between 2015 and 2018, represents a key offering in Citroën’s compact family car lineup. This version falls within the second generation of the C4 (B7 platform), which aimed to blend comfort, practicality, and fuel efficiency. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range option, it catered to buyers prioritizing economy and lower running costs. The “S&S” designation indicates the inclusion of Citroën’s Stop & Start system, further enhancing fuel savings. This model was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel engines remained popular due to favorable taxation and fuel economy regulations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C4 |
| Generation | C4 II Hatchback (Phase II, 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 BlueHDi (99 Hp) S&S 86g |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.1 l/100 km (75.9 US mpg, 91.1 UK mpg, 32.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 86 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 82.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 210.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 99 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 254 Nm @ 1750 rpm (187.34 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BHY DV6FD |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt, 3.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt, 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 635 kg (1399.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 408 l (14.41 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1183 l (41.78 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal, 13.2 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal, 3.74 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4329 mm (170.43 in.) |
| Width | 1789 mm (70.43 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2050 mm (80.71 in.) |
| Height | 1489-1502 mm (58.62 – 59.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1522-1536 mm (59.92 – 60.47 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1515-1529 mm (59.65 – 60.2 in.) |
| Front overhang | 935 mm (36.81 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 786 mm (30.94 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C4 variant is the 1.6-liter (1560 cc) BlueHDi engine, specifically the BHY DV6FD variant. This engine belongs to the DV6 family of diesel engines developed by PSA Peugeot Citroën (now Stellantis). It’s a four-cylinder, inline engine featuring a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine utilizes a common rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for optimized combustion. The 16:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their thermal efficiency. The engine is equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and utilizes AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to reduce NOx emissions, complying with Euro 6 emission standards. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 99 hp output and 254 Nm (187 lb-ft) of torque provide adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.9 seconds, and the top speed is 111.85 mph. In real-world driving, the engine feels most comfortable in the mid-range, with usable torque available from around 1750 rpm. The manual transmission, while not sporty, offers precise shifts. Compared to higher-output versions of the C4, such as those with the 1.6 BlueHDi 115 hp or the 2.0 BlueHDi engines, this variant feels noticeably slower, particularly when fully loaded or tackling inclines. However, its strength lies in its fuel efficiency, consistently achieving combined fuel economy figures of around 71.3 US mpg. The Stop & Start system contributes to this, automatically shutting off the engine when idling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 BlueHDi 99 hp S&S 86g typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, available as options, added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and a more advanced infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly.
Chassis & Braking
The C4 II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup prioritizes ride comfort over sporty handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are discs. The steering is a rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision. The suspension tuning is geared towards absorbing bumps and providing a comfortable ride, making it well-suited for everyday driving. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 BlueHDi 99 hp variant was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. It was praised for its fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions, making it attractive to environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking to minimize running costs. However, some reviewers noted its lack of outright performance compared to more powerful C4 models. Compared to the 1.6 BlueHDi 115 hp version, the 99 hp model offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. The 2.0 BlueHDi models provided significantly more power but came with higher fuel consumption and emissions.
Legacy
The 1.6 BlueHDi engine, in general, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although the early versions of the DV6 engine family were known for potential DPF issues. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and AdBlue refills, is crucial for long-term reliability. In the used car market, the 1.6 BlueHDi 99 hp C4 represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an economical and practical hatchback. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs make it an attractive option, particularly for city driving and commuting. However, potential buyers should be aware of the importance of maintaining the DPF and ensuring the AdBlue system is functioning correctly.
