Review of Citroen C4 Shine showcases floating luxury performance

Targeting the upper echelons of the compact SUV realm, this stylish French Citroen C4 Shine thumbs its nose at the conventional.

More than 40 car brands battle within the Australian market.

Despite us being baitfish in the worldwide automotive pond, manufacturers like to test the water Down Under.

Some marques have disappeared in recent years, including luxury brand Infiniti, Opel and our homegrown Holden, whereas some of the small players have kept plugging away.

Citroen has been a mainstay without ever selling large volumes.

Some of the brand’s DS models showcased improving style while the Cactus with side protection bubbles on the side have accentuated the unique attributes over the past decade, yet Australians have continued to steer clear.

The pandemic and semiconductor computer chip challenges facing most carmakers could work in the favour of Citroen with its new offering, the C4.

Blending SUV and hatch it’s typically Citroen – it doesn’t follow convention – and those facing a lengthy wait for something from the mainstream brands may be lured to try something different.

Prices start from more than $41,800 which competes with the high-end compact SUVs.

There is only one variant of the new Citroen C4, it’s called Shine.

VALUE

Given the price it’s not surprising Citroen has packed the C4 with kit, and there is only one variant – called Shine.

Among the feature highlights are a 10-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satnav, black leather seats with grey stitching and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Like most other manufacturers, the C4 has a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty with roadside assist for the same period.

Capped price servicing is available if you return to a dealer, with the average price over five years about $500. That’s at the higher end of the scale in comparison to some rivals (Hyundai is $320 and Mazda $350, but it’s always best to check the inclusions list).

White is the standard colour, but for $690 other options are blue, orange, red, two shades of grey or black.

Inside the Citroen C4 Shine features a flat bottom and flat top steering wheel. It also comes with a 10-inch touchscreen boasting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, satnav, black leather seats with grey stitching and 18-inch alloy wheels.

SAFETY

Australia’s crash rating authority awarded the C4 four stars, most notably downgraded due to the absence of a centre airbag.

Modern expectations are met in terms of technical aids, including emergency brakes which can be automatically applied if the driver fails to act to help avoid or lessen the impact of a collision.

Radar cruise control is also included, along with front, side and rear parking sensors as well as a 360-degree camera view for perfect parking (although like Peugeot, from start-up the surrounds are blank until the vehicle begins moving). One absent feature is autonomous braking while reversing.

A head-up display delivers speedo information and satnav instructions, while traffic sign recognition provides a constant reminder of the speed zones.

The absence of a centre airbag meant the Citroen C4 only received a four-star safety rating.

COMFORT

Beautifully plush seats provide a welcoming environment for those front and back.

Citroen is renowned for its idiosyncrasies and the C4 doesn’t disappoint. For starters, the steering wheel has a flat bottom and top. Most sport steering wheels are flat-bottom only.

Then there’s the pop-out tray above the glovebox which can house a tablet. Sitting atop that is another tray which hides a tablet holder – probably better suited to back seat passengers.

The driver’s seat has three massage options.

Functionality is covered with a storage area for phones near two USB ports (one type-A and another type-C) and another in the back. While there are two cupholders in the console when it’s filled with a pair of takeaway coffees they don’t fit properly as they sit too close together. The doors have bottle holders.

Taller occupants would find the sloping rear roofline challenging. Those in the back have air vents and reasonable leg and knee room if front passengers are mindful.

Strangely the driver has electric seat adjustment vertically and reclining, but fore and aft must be undertaken manually. While the touchscreen is 10 inches, columns flanking the main display reduces the primary area. The tailgate also requires manpower.

Boot space is okay but not class-leading, and folding rear seats enables greater loading flexibility.

Citroen’s distinctive badge on the C4 Shine.

DRIVING

Shifting into drive, reverse or park requires the use of a quirky toggle.

Once under way the C4 floats along with impressive levels of luxury.

Delivering power to the front wheels is a willing turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine. Never destined to trouble quarter mile records, the response from standstill is predictable and the three-potter delivers a lovely note when you work up into the rev range.

Attacking bends with too much enthusiasm resolves in reasonable body roll, while changing directions rapidly has the C4 ducking and diving, yet keep things steady and it’s a beautifully refined ride with the eight-speed gearbox shifting through the cogs with aplomb.

Running on premium unleaded, our test saw the C4 deliver consumption figures of 6.6L/100km – a good result and only slightly more than the official figure.

Back seat space is reasonable in the Citroen C4, although the sloping roofline can cause issues for taller passengers.

ALTERNATIVES

Mazda CX-30 G25 Astina $46,649 D/A

Among the leading compact SUV sellers, this range-topping front-wheel drive version comes with all the trimmings and great looks. Powered by a 139kW/252Nm 2.5-litre 4-cyl with average fuel consumption of 6.6L/100km. Boot space of just 317L.

Hyundai Kona Highlander $42,290 D/A

Another strong sales performer, the Hyundai Kona has solid dynamics and impressive features. Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre 4-cyl that is good for 110kW/180Nm that runs on standard unleaded for an average of 6.2L/100km. Boot space is 374L.

Striking alloy wheels are standard fare on the Citroen C4 Shine.

HEAD SAYS

Going mainstream is the safe option. I’m chasing some luxury mixed with unique style and attitude.

HEART SAYS

Dancing to the beat of a different drum is my thing, and the C4 has a certain je ne sai qua.

VERDICT

Comfort and luxury are the C4 hallmarks. It battles against key rivals for the money, yet it’s quirky and offers something out of the box. Citroen delivers a confident product in the C4 which is a capable modern compact car suitable for empty nesters or growing families.