Driving the new Citroen C4 today, a good chance for the local importer to finally lift the French marques sales performance.

The new high-riding Citroen C4 Shine at $37.990 with a sloping rear roof line is more SUV like to the previous more conventional C4 hatchback. The new Coupe style body may not be to everybody’s taste, but most European manufacturers now feature one.

Power comes from a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine driving the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic with three drive modes. The body and finishes inside to a high standard, the interior a standout in design terms and what Citroen call advanced comfort seats in quilted leather are exactly that with the added benefit of a massage function.

Good storage too although a space that looks like it houses wireless phone charging disappointingly doesn’t. Also included a head-up instrument display, good rear seat legroom but headroom somewhat tight for tall adults. Good infotainment display and usability with two USB ports up front, one in the rear plus the benefit of a 360-degree camera.

The Citroen C4 also features a good suite of active safety features but misses out on rear cross traffic alert, only gaining a  local four-star safety rating due to the lack of a centre airbag. Warranty, five years/unlimited with service intervals every 12 months or 15,000K.  Drive impressions next.

I’m David Berthon.

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