TRIED & TESTED
Citroën ë-C4 X
The new Citroën fastback is proof that there is life beyond C-SUVs in the electric future. By John Challen
TRIED & TESTED
Citroën ë-C4 X
The new Citroën fastback is proof that there is life beyond C-SUVs in the electric future. By John Challen
Despite what some people might think, vehicle manufacturers can still look beyond SUVs these days. While the desire of a raised driving position and spacious interior comes at the top of the list for a lot of drivers, others might prefer to choose something more traditional. In fact, they are more likely to stand out these days in a saloon or estate car than an aforementioned sports utility vehicle.
Step forward, then, Citroën’s take on the non-SUV BEV: the ë-C4 X. As the name suggests, it’s a close relation to the C4, but it is the French manufacturer’s first electric-only car to be launched in the UK. The X part of the name hints at the styling, which is designed to almost persuade people into thinking they are in an SUV with a twist. The fastback profile and ride height of the ë-C4 X could be seen as a halfway house between saloon and crossover, while the interior offers copious amounts of storage and comfort.
The ë-C4 X is part of an evolution of the brand, which is looking to cover a lot of bases from the high-end (C5 X) to compact urban runaround (Ami).
Citroën maintains there will be something for everyone with its future electric model lineup, which is where ë-C4 X comes in. The French manufacturer believes that with increasing concerns over fuel efficiency – and the cost of the fuel itself – demand for cars that aren’t SUV (i.e. more fuel efficient) will also be forthcoming. There is a clear commitment to assisting drivers and customers with their green credentials, and the ë-C4 X is playing its part: there are 35kg of recycled plastic in the car and 100kg of recycled metals used in each unit.
The ë-C4 X is available with a 134hp electric motor, which works alongside a 50kWh battery pack. Again, the company is thinking about efficiency here – a bigger battery would’ve meant a more expensive car and higher overall weight, which would’ve taken the ë-C4 X into a different segment. As it is, the combination offers a theoretical driving range of 222 miles (WLTP) from a single change. Speaking of charging, there’s a 7.4kW single phase charger onboard and using a 7kW unit the ë-C4 X’s battery can be replenished in 7.5 hours. However, using up to 100kW rapid charging, zero to 80% can be reached in as little as 30 minutes.
Inside, there is plenty of familiarity with other models in Citroën range, which is no bad thing. The controls are sensibly laid out, the 10-inch touchscreen is clear, although can be a bit fiddly and ponderous at times. Citroën has made a big play about the need for comfort and refinement in this car, so higher density and thicker foam is used in the seats for extra support.
Coupled with that, ‘Progressive Hydraulic Cushions’ (a modern take on the Hydractive suspension) ensure decent ride quality, even on some challenging surfaces. Space has also been made a priority, with best-in-class rear legroom.
The ë-C4 X is an important car for Citroën, with the company stating that as many as 35% of C4 sales will be accounted for by the new BEV model. As such there is a generous list of safety equipment as standard, even on the base ‘Sense’ model. From a user experience point of view, there is the usual voice control, wireless smartphone connectivity, customisation in terms of different user profiles and over-the-air software updates.
At a time when people are looking to move to EV, but the budget might not stretch to a more expensive SUV or crossover, the ë-C4 X joins a growing list of cost-effective options. As an all-rounder, there is a lot to like about the new Citroën on the block.
Which model is right for you?
From launch, New ë-C4 X is available in three trim levels: Sense; Shine and Shine Plus.
Sense models come as standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, comfort seats, and keyless entry and start. There’s a 10-inch touchscreen that is Apple CarPlay- and Android Auto-friendly. Safety-wise, all Sense models feature a range of systems including active safety brake, speed limit information and lane keeping assist.
Moving onto Shine means drivers get My Citroën Drive Plus – the company’s next-generation infotainment and navigation system, complete with integrated natural voice commands. Models in this grade also have head-up display, a reversing camera automatic intelligent beam headlights.
Finally, the range-topping Shine Plus versions add in Alcantara seats (heated for front passengers) and highway driver assist, part of which is adaptive cruise control.
Sense
C-Series
Shine Plus
EXPERIENCE
Citroën ë-C4 X
“Step forward, then, Citroën’s take on the non-SUV BEV: the ë-C4 X. As the name suggests, it’s a close relation to the C4, but it is the French manufacturer’s first electric-only model to be launched in the UK”
VERDICT
What Citroën is doing is to be admired and also, with the levels of comfort and refinement offered in the ë-C4 X, a bit of a throwback to models of old from the French brand, which used to glide along roads thanks to their hydropneumatic suspension. This fastback is sure to attract the attention of many drivers who crave an alternative to the endless list of crossovers on the market.
