Citroën introduces a trendy variant of C4, the ë-C4 X. A Coupé SUV for the middle class is still rare, but sister brand Peugeot also introduced one a good week ago. Our mobility expert Brecht Vanhaelewyn discusses the new model.
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More and more variety within SUV range
The SUV is today the undisputed ruler of the car world. Even previously traditional volume brands are rearranging their ranges. They are no longer afraid to drop the hatchback. Citroen is a good example. Only alternative models in the core of the range. And just as was the case with conventional body shapes at the time, as popularity grows, more and more are used for niche variants. This is how you see the C4 X best: a variation on the well-known SUV recipe. The model has been stretched to further emphasize the coupé characteristics (read: the sloping roofline).
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Fits nicely between two existing models
Up to the B-pillar (the middle of the car) everything is identical to the already existing Citroën C4. But then everything changes. The double rear window of the C4 – separated by a wing – has disappeared. Here is a larger boot lid, with a one-piece rear window. The space behind the rear wheels – the overhang – also grew considerably. Just 24 centimeters are added for a total length of exactly 4.6 meters. In this way, this model closes the gap between the conventional C4 (4.36 meters) and the C5 X (4.8 meters). Most of the extra space goes to the trunk, now 510 liters in size, but the rear passengers also get some extra centimeters.
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Citroën has not done anything to the technology. And not on the interior at the front, including dashboard. In other words, the C4 X rolls off the production line with exactly the same engines as the C4. That means: three petrols, one diesel and an electric variant. Only: our country, together with the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Austria, Germany, Portugal, England and the Scandinavian markets, only gets the electric variant in the catalog. It is officially called ë-C4 X. These are the most important technical specifications: a battery of 50 kWh, a driving range (according to the optimistic WLTP cycle) of 360 km, 136 hp, a top speed (limited) of 150 km/h and an acceleration time from standstill to 100 of 9.7 seconds. In other words: a rational EV with an average driving range.
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No direct competitors, but alternatives
Ask Citroën and you will hear that the ë-C4 X will have no direct competitors. That’s a bit taken aback, of course. But the French do have a selling point in which they are actually alone: exquisite comfort† Special foam padding of the seats in combination with a special damper.
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Crossovers or SUVs (the terminology is used interchangeably) with Coupé lines have long been the prerogative of the higher segments. Citroën is working on the democratization of that body shape here. It is not alone in that. Volkswagen has one that is smaller with the Taigo. Renault has the Arkana and earlier this month sister brand Peugeot introduced its 408, to say the least.
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The launch is planned around the turn of the year. A Belgian debut may be something for the recently announced official Brussels Motor Show† No price is being discussed at the moment.
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