Citroën C4: Just a Small Step to Say "You"
If a car has a low list price, it's usually lacking in equipment. That's not the case with the Citroen C4's new basic model, "You." This surprising little guy still has a lot to offer.
For just under $22,000, you can get your hands on the C4, and it doesn't feel like you've made any compromises.
First glance
At first glance, you might think this is a high-end model. The sloping hatchback, with its crossover styling, looks great with no added design extras. But if you take a closer look, you'll notice the 18-inch wheels are just plain steel rims with an aerodynamic cover. Also, the door handles are black-painted, not a cost-cutting measure, but a stylish touch.
Inside, the seats are simple, but you won't notice that when you're sitting in them. The more expensive C4 models have similar seating comfort and a good sense of space, but the sloping roofline affects visibility a bit.
On the road
Despite being based on a small car platform, the C4 feels like a large car. This is thanks to its comfort suspension with its unique combination of springs, dampers, and hydraulic mounts, which effortlessly absorb bumps. The steering and pedals are perfectly in sync, making the C4 feel precise and agile while still maintaining that big-car feel.
With a 74 hp/101 PS engine working in the lower power bands, it might not be the fastest option, but it handles well. If you know how to use a manual six-speed gearbox, you can get off the line smoothly. Fuel efficiency is also good, with an average of around 6 liters.
The cost
€20,000 gets you more than you might expect. The exterior is nicely done, with two-zone climate control, digital speedometer, leather steering wheel, touchscreen with radio and six speakers, Android Auto or Apple CarPlay integration, electric window lifters, and rear parking aid.
Safety comes into play with the stricter requirements set to go into effect in July 2024, and this model hits the mark. However, a rearview camera would have been helpful due to the poor rear visibility. Luckily, one can be purchased for an extra €250. The seat heating, on the other hand, is reserved for the higher equipment levels.
The verdict
Finding a direct competitor for this compact crossover on a small car platform is difficult. The Fiat Tipo starts at €21,000, while the Skoda Scala begins at €24,800. For more similarities in appearance and positioning, you could consider the Kia Niro Hybrid (€30,700) or the Mazda CX-30 (€28,000).
In this price range, the "You" model is not just a budget option, but a fully-featured car for everyday use. Unlike many competitors, Citroen even allows you to add some extras from a limited options list.
Read also:
Source: www.ntv.de
