Citroen has unveiled new hybrid modifications of its C4 SUV and C4 X coupe-SUV. Both borrow their 1.2-liter turbo engine and small-time electric motor from the C5 Aircross and are said to be 30% more fuel-efficient than their petrol cousins (see video). You can already pre-order them in Europe starting from €33,200, but the delivery will have to wait until spring.
Both models now utilize a tiny three-cylinder engine rated at 136 PS (134 hp / 100 kW) and 230 Nm (170 lb-ft) of torque. Citroen claims it was specifically designed for use in hybrid powertrains and is built from 40% new components. A single e-motor adds 28 PS (28 hp / 21 kW) and 55 Nm (40 lb-ft) of torque when necessary. Aside from aiding acceleration, it also acts as a generator for the tiny 432-watt battery located under the front passenger seat.
You can drive very slowly in all-electric mode (e.g., in traffic jams or around parking lots), but don’t expect the battery to last long. The six-speed DCT also gets motor-friendly tweaks in this version, such as shorter gear ratios.
Citroen reckons that drivers will be able to complete around 50% of their urban trips in all-electric mode. This should lower monthly fuel consumption by 30% and cut harmful emissions by 20%.
You will not be able to charge the battery from external sources, but the French automaker actually sees a benefit in that. The advertising materials are basically saying that you get the advantages of an electric car without the hassle of having to look for charging spots.