The Citroen DS4 1.6 BlueHDi (120 hp) Stop&Start was a front-wheel-drive hatchback produced between 2014 and 2015. Positioned as a stylish and somewhat unconventional offering in the compact segment, the DS4 aimed to blend comfort, practicality, and a distinctive design. This particular variant, powered by the 1.6-liter BlueHDi diesel engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, represented a mid-range option within the DS4 lineup, prioritizing fuel efficiency and reasonable performance over outright speed. It was part of the first generation of the DS4 (often referred to as the A9 platform internally), which sought to establish Citroën’s DS line as a premium sub-brand.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | DS4 |
| Generation | DS4 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 BlueHDi (120 Hp) Stop&Start |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg, 83.1 UK mpg, 29.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 97 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp, 93 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 232.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BHZ DV6FC |
| 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 385 l (13.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1021 l (36.06 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4275 mm (168.31 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1533 mm (60.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2612 mm (102.83 in.) |
| Front track | 1531 mm (60.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Front overhang | 924 mm (36.38 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 739 mm (29.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| 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 | 215/55 R17; 225/45 R18; 225/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the DS4 1.6 BlueHDi was the PSA Group’s DV6FC engine, specifically the BHZ variant. This 1.6-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine utilized common-rail direct injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The engine featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, with two valves per cylinder. The BlueHDi technology incorporated a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system using AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to significantly reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, meeting the stringent Euro 6 emission standards. The six-speed manual transmission was chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement, offering precise gear changes. The engine’s torque curve was relatively flat, providing good pulling power from low engine speeds, which was beneficial for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The DS4 1.6 BlueHDi (120 hp) offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provided adequate performance for most situations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.4 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 119.92 mph. The manual transmission allowed for good control over the engine’s power, and the gear ratios were well-suited for both urban and highway driving. Compared to the more powerful DS4 variants (like those with higher-output diesel engines or the petrol options), this version felt less eager to accelerate, but it compensated with superior fuel economy. The suspension provided a good balance between comfort and handling, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road while maintaining a relatively stable feel in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS4 1.6 BlueHDi (120 hp) typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and automatic headlights and wipers. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard design was distinctive, featuring a wave-like motif and a driver-focused layout. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The DS4 utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a good compromise between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The chassis was designed to provide a stable and secure platform, contributing to the DS4’s overall driving dynamics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen DS4 1.6 BlueHDi (120 hp) was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and distinctive styling. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered at times, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to other compact hatchbacks in its class, the DS4 offered a unique blend of style and practicality. Its fuel economy was competitive, and its emissions were relatively low. The 1.6 BlueHDi engine offered a good balance between performance and efficiency, making it a popular choice for drivers who prioritized fuel costs. Compared to the more powerful DS4 variants, this version was more affordable and offered lower running costs.
Legacy
The 1.6 BlueHDi engine proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain, and many examples are still on the road today. While some owners have reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the AdBlue system, these are relatively common problems with modern diesel engines and can often be resolved with proper maintenance. The DS4 1.6 BlueHDi (120 hp) remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a stylish and economical option for buyers looking for a compact hatchback. Its distinctive design and comfortable ride continue to appeal to a wide range of drivers.
