Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | DS4 |
| Generation | DS4 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 THP (163 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 178 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 166.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FM EP6DT, 5GZ EP6FDT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1438 kg (3170.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1835 kg (4045.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 397 kg (875.24 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%) | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 715 kg (1576.31 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 (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 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 | 6 gears, automatic 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 |
The Citroen DS4 1.6 THP (163 hp) Automatic, produced between 2011 and 2015, represents a distinctive offering within the broader DS4 range. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it aimed to balance performance and fuel efficiency with the convenience of an automatic transmission. This variant was part of the first generation of the DS4 (often referred to internally as the Y4), built on the PSA Group’s Platform 2 (PF2) – shared with models like the Peugeot 308 and Citroen C4 Picasso. The DS4 itself was Citroen’s attempt to create a more premium and stylish compact hatchback, bridging the gap between mainstream models and more luxurious offerings.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the DS4 1.6 THP Automatic is the EP6DT engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is part of the Prince engine family, a collaborative development between PSA Group and BMW. The ‘THP’ designation stands for ‘Turbo High Pressure’, indicating the use of a turbocharger and direct fuel injection. The direct injection system, utilizing piezo injectors, delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, improving efficiency and power output. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides increased air density for improved combustion. The automatic transmission is a six-speed unit, offering smooth gear changes and contributing to the car’s ease of driving. This transmission was designed to balance fuel economy with acceptable performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 hp output, combined with the automatic transmission, delivers a respectable, though not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 8.8 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 131.73 mph. The automatic transmission prioritizes smooth shifts over aggressive downshifts, making it well-suited for everyday driving. Compared to the manual version of the same engine, the automatic offers less driver engagement but greater convenience. The torque curve is relatively flat, providing decent pulling power from low engine speeds, but it doesn’t offer the same punch as higher-output versions of the 1.6 THP or the more powerful diesel options available in the DS4 range. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, which can sometimes result in the engine feeling slightly strained during hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS4 1.6 THP Automatic typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, a CD stereo with auxiliary input, electric front windows, and remote central locking. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and wipers, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard design was distinctive, featuring a wave-like motif. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The DS4 utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride, although it’s not as sharp or responsive as some of its rivals. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than outright handling prowess, reflecting the DS4’s positioning as a stylish and comfortable rather than a performance-oriented hatchback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS4 1.6 THP Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a stylish and comfortable hatchback. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel slightly sluggish at times, and the fuel economy wasn’t class-leading. Compared to the 1.6 HDi diesel variants, the THP offered more power but significantly lower fuel economy. Against the higher-output 1.6 THP (200 hp) models, it lacked the same level of performance. The DS4 aimed to compete with cars like the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf, but it often fell short in terms of outright refinement and driving dynamics.
Legacy
The EP6DT engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly if not regularly driven on longer journeys. The automatic transmission, if properly maintained with regular fluid changes, is generally considered durable. Today, the DS4 1.6 THP Automatic represents an affordable entry point into the DS4 range. Its blend of style, comfort, and convenience continues to appeal to buyers looking for a distinctive and practical hatchback. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for carbon buildup and ensure the car has been well-maintained.
