Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | DS4 |
| Generation | DS4 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 144 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 125 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4250 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FS EP6C |
| 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 | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1280 kg (2821.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1755 kg (3869.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 640 kg (1410.96 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 | 5 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 |
The Citroen DS4 1.6 VTi, produced between 2011 and 2015, represents a distinctive offering within the broader DS4 range. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it aimed to bridge the gap between the more economical diesel variants and the higher-performance petrol options. The DS4 itself was Citroën’s attempt to create a premium compact hatchback, blending elements of a traditional hatchback with a slightly raised ride height and more sculpted styling, appealing to buyers seeking something different in the crowded C-segment. This particular 1.6 VTi model was primarily marketed in Europe, where fuel efficiency and stylish design were key purchasing factors.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The DS4 1.6 VTi utilizes the PSA Group’s 5FS EP6C engine, a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is part of the Prince engine family, developed jointly by PSA and BMW. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and utilizes multi-point fuel injection. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine’s compression ratio is 11:1. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, designed to provide reasonable fuel economy and acceptable performance for everyday driving. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance between acceleration and cruising efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 VTi engine, paired with the 5-speed manual gearbox, delivered a fairly typical driving experience for a naturally aspirated engine of this displacement. Acceleration was adequate, with a 0-60 mph time of around 11.6 seconds, but it wasn’t particularly brisk. The engine felt relatively responsive in the mid-range, making it suitable for everyday commuting and overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 THP turbocharged engine offered in the DS4 range, the VTi felt noticeably less potent. However, it offered a smoother, more linear power delivery. The manual transmission was generally well-regarded for its light shift action, but some drivers found the gear ratios to be slightly spaced, requiring frequent shifting to maintain optimal engine speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS4 1.6 VTi typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD stereo with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, often denoted by additions like ‘Sport’ or ‘Prestige’, added features such as alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, rear parking sensors, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was modern for its time, featuring a prominent central touchscreen display for infotainment functions on some trims.
Chassis & Braking
The DS4 featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty in its handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The DS4’s chassis was designed to prioritize comfort and refinement over outright performance, resulting in a relatively soft and forgiving ride.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS4 1.6 VTi was generally well-received by automotive critics as a stylish and comfortable hatchback. However, its performance was often criticized as being somewhat underwhelming, particularly when compared to turbocharged rivals. Fuel economy was respectable, but not class-leading. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6 VTi offered a smoother and quieter driving experience, but at the expense of fuel efficiency. Against the 1.6 THP, it lacked the punch and responsiveness that many drivers desired. The VTi appealed to buyers who prioritized style, comfort, and refinement over outright performance.
Legacy
The 5FS EP6C engine, while generally reliable, is known to have some potential issues, including occasional problems with the intake manifold and throttle body. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. In the used car market, the DS4 1.6 VTi represents a relatively affordable entry point into the DS4 range. Its lower price point reflects its lower performance and fuel economy compared to other variants. However, it remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and comfortable hatchback with a reasonable level of equipment.
