CITROEN C4: head-to-head with the VW Golf

An interior that should see it lock horns with Volkswagen’s Golf, a price tag to match its German rival and a packed spec sheet that will make Wolfsburg’s big-selling hatchback shudder are all good signs.

Here’s my quick five-star guide to the new C4.

Citroen C4 Exclusiv HDi

• Engine: 1,997cc, two-litre turbo-diesel
• Power: 150bhp and 251lb.ft. of torque
• Acceleration (0-62mph): 8.6 seconds
• Top Speed: 129mph
• Economy: 56.5mpg
• Price: £21,495

Overall rating: * * * (out of five).

Style: * * *

“More aggression has been penned into the new C4’s grille and headlights while sharp creases, created by a blend of concave and convex lines, add some stylish shadow play along the bonnet and flanks. 

“My C4 Eclusiv test car appeared to ride a little high, though, denting the car’s sporty appearance.”

Specification: * * * * *

“An excellent interior, a high-tech blind spot warning system, a Denon HiFi with a giant sub-woofer located in the boot, a parking space measurement function and a array of Star Trek-style warning sounds and the indicator tones are among a packed spec sheet for the Exclusiv.

“As standard extras go, the C4 has the Golf and Focus licked.”

Value: * * *

“Priced from £15,750 the C4 just undercuts the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf.

“In the range-topping Exclusiv spec seen here, with the most powerful two-litre diesel engine, the C4 comes in at a far more challenging £21,495, but that’s still a saving over the 10bhp less powerful Golf GT TDI (£550) and a similarly specced Ford Focus Titanium X TDCi (£950).”

Performance: * * *

“The torquey HDi engine has plenty of grunt with 150bhp and 251lb.ft., enough to reach 62mph in 8.6 seconds and a 129mph top speed—faster than the equivalent Golf or Focus.

“Despite the range-topping C4’s inherent pace, however, it never feels as dynamic or engaging as the Golf or Focus on a challenging road.”