The Citroen C8 2.0i 16V Automatic, produced between 2005 and 2008, represents a mid-range offering within the first generation (Phase I) of Citroen’s large MPV. Sharing its platform – the PSA Group’s PX platform, also known as 1HX0 – with the Peugeot 807 and Fiat Ulysse, the C8 aimed to provide a spacious and comfortable family vehicle. This particular variant, equipped with the 2.0-liter petrol engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as a balance between affordability and convenience, appealing to buyers who prioritized ease of driving over outright performance. It served as a key model in Citroen’s lineup, competing with other European MPVs like the Renault Espace and Volkswagen Sharan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C8 |
| Generation | C8 (Phase I) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i 16V (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.3 l/100 km (17.7 US mpg, 21.2 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 229 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp, 84.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm, 120.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RFJ EW10A |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1659 kg (3657.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2435 kg (5368.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 776 kg (1710.79 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 225 l (7.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2948 l (104.11 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 40 kg (88.18 lbs.) |
| Length | 4727 mm (186.1 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1952 mm (76.85 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2205 mm (86.81 in.) |
| Height | 1766-1856 mm (69.53 – 73.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2823 mm (111.14 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1548 mm (60.94 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1013 mm (39.88 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 891 mm (35.08 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.62 m (38.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic 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 |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The C8 2.0i 16V utilizes the PSA Group’s EW10A engine, specifically the RFJ variant. This is a naturally aspirated, 1.997-liter inline-four cylinder engine. It features a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its 140 horsepower output at 6000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized smooth operation and reasonable fuel economy over outright performance. The four-speed automatic transmission, while providing convenience, was a relatively conventional unit for its time. It lacks the efficiency and responsiveness of more modern automatic transmissions with greater gear counts.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i Automatic C8 offered a comfortable, but not particularly dynamic, driving experience. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, resulted in noticeable gear changes and a lack of urgency during acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of around 12.3 seconds reflects this. Compared to the more powerful 2.2-liter petrol or 2.0-liter HDi diesel variants, the 2.0i felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards cruising comfort rather than spirited driving. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but lacked the all-weather capability of all-wheel-drive systems found on some competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C8 2.0i Automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, central locking, electric front windows, and an RDS radio. Higher trim levels, often denoted by specific package names, added features such as alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, a multi-disc CD changer, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The C8’s chassis featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup aimed to balance ride comfort with handling stability. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety. The C8’s weight, around 1659 kg (3657.47 lbs), contributed to its somewhat ponderous handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C8 2.0i Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and comfortable family vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable price point. However, the engine and automatic transmission combination were often criticized for being underpowered and lacking refinement compared to some competitors. Fuel economy, at around 24.5 US mpg combined, was acceptable but not exceptional. The 2.0-liter HDi diesel variant offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for those covering long distances. Compared to the petrol alternatives, the diesel also provided more torque, resulting in more relaxed cruising.
Legacy
The Citroen C8 2.0i Automatic, while not the most exciting variant in the lineup, proved to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The EW10A engine is known for its robustness, and the four-speed automatic transmission, while not cutting-edge, is generally dependable. In the used car market, these C8s represent an affordable entry point into MPV ownership. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for age-related issues, such as suspension wear and electrical gremlins. Overall, the C8 2.0i Automatic remains a viable option for families seeking a spacious and practical vehicle, provided it has been well-maintained.
