This is the all-new Citroen C4. It’s the first model from the French brand to be offered with the choice of either a conventional petrol or diesel powertrain and a pure-electric powertrain, which will be badged e-C4. The regular hatchback market has suffered in the wake of the SUV boom, so Citroen took a different approach with the styling of the third-generation C4. As revealed by Auto Express earlier this year, the firm’s traditional Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus rival has morphed into a coupe-inspired crossover. Citroen’s CEO, Vincent Cobée, explained to Auto Express how the C4’s market needed reinventing. “I would agree that the C-segment has been a fairly traditional sector and is probably right for changes,” he said. “One [idea] is to find the proper balance between affordability, versatility and comfort, better access, and better visibility, as there’s probably also a need for more spice in the style.” New 2021 Citroen C4: design and interior The new C4 borrows styling cues from the larger C5 Aircross SUV, as well as the 19_19 concept that was revealed as a preview of the future of Citroen design. The concept’s influence can be seen in the head and tail-light design of the new C4.

Citroen’s press photos also reveal both the petrol and electric versions of the C4 – and the images clearly show that, whichever powertrain buyers choose, the crossover’s styling will be identical, with the exception of blue detailing on the badges of the e-C4. 34 The new C4 measures 4,360 mm long, 1,800 mm wide, 1,525 mm high, making it noticeably larger than a VW Golf. Citroen claims boot capacity of 380 litres across every model, while wheel sizes range from 16 to 18 inches in diameter. Citroen’s work in the C4’s cabin is a more gentle redesign of what we can see in today’s C4 Cactus. Most obviously, there’s a new 10-inch infotainment system and digital instrument binnacle, while a new centre console occupies the centre of the cabin. Wireless smartphone charging as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are also included. Citroen also claims there are 16 storage compartments dotted throughout the cabin that add up to 39 litres of additional storage. New 2021 Citroen C4: engines and drivetrains The C4 and e-C4 was launched with a total of three petrol, one diesel and one electric powertrain options. However, not all are likely to be made available to UK buyers. 34 Petrol options include Citroen’s PureTech 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine in three states of tune: 99, 128 or 153bhp. All models will be front-wheel drive, while the more powerful versions will be offered with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The only diesel option will be a 101bhp 1.5 litre, which can be had with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic.