New Citroën C4 and C4X First Drive
The new Citroën C4 and C4X have been given a mid-life refresh, showcasing the brand's commitment to modernising its lineup while maintaining affordability. Built on the well-established CMP platform, these updated models were unveiled first at the 2024 Paris Auto Show, highlighting Citroën's latest design language and today we have made the trip just outside Barcelona for a first drive opportunity. With a choice of a mild hybrid combustion engine, and fully electric powertrains, the revised C4 and C4X are ready to cater for a variety of Irish consumers preferences in this evolving automotive landscape we now find ourselves navigating!
At first glance, one of the standout features of the new Citroën C4 and C4X has to be their fresh new front ends. Both now adopt Citroën's updated design language, which includes a significant change to the brand’s new oval logo, replacing the now dated looking Chevron badge. This subtle but impactful update adds a contemporary touch to the vehicles' front fascia. The bulbous headlight design of the previous models has been replaced with sleeker, more modern LED headlights that definitely look considerably smarter. The fog lights have been repositioned, while the front bumper has been reshaped to deliver a sharper, more aggressive look. Along the sides, the silhouette remains largely unchanged, but the alloy wheels feature new designs that add a touch of sophistication.
While the C4 and C4X share many similarities, a noticeable difference is evident from side-profile and rear. The C4X design slopes off to the rear and features very little if any updates to the outgoing model. In contrast the C4 rear end gets a major redesign with new tail lights positioned below the spoiler creating a cleaner and more modern look. If you asked me which of the two I would pick, I would have usually went with the sloping coupe back of the C4X but on these revised variants, I’m siding with the styling of the C4 as the more striking option of the two.
Moving inside the cabin, the changes are more subtle but equally impactful. The most noticeable update is the new oval Citroën logo on the steering wheel, complementing the brand’s exterior redesign. The interior adopts an all-black theme with gloss black and metallic accents, which is easy on the eye. Technology has also been upgraded with the new models getting a 7-inch fully digital TFT screen for the instrument cluster that supports navigation and provides drivers with all the essential information. Another key upgrade is the introduction of Citroën’s Advanced Comfort seats that now feature thicker foam padding for improved support and comfort. After spending some time behind the wheel in both cars, I can assure you, they are comfy!
Powering the 2025 Citroën C4 and C4X is a choice between the mild-hybrid 1.2 petrol turbocharged engine delivering 100hp or 136hp as well as electric powertrain with entry level 50 kWh battery with up to 360km range or the 54-kWh battery with up to 427km range. These two options offer competitive offerings in Ireland’s growing EV market. Our test drive of both vehicles consisted of a mixture of rural and urban use with the petrol returning 4.7 litres per 100km and the electric using per 16.7kWh/km. Recharging quickly on long journeys is vital and the new ë-C4 and ë-C4 X meet this need with the option of using 100 kW rapid chargers, recovering 80% of its charge in less than 30 minutes.
Both were super comfortable no doubt in part because of the suspension system, that incorporates the brand’s renowned Progressive Hydraulic Cushions. This advanced setup ensures a smoother ride by effectively absorbing road imperfections in a fraction of a second. Pricing for the 2025 Citroën C4 and C4X will be announced closer to their official Irish launch. However, with the updates and improvements across design, technology, and powertrains, these models are poised to remain competitively priced with entry below €30,000. This should continue their appeal as affordable yet stylish options in their competitive segments. In our opinion the new Citroën C4 and C4X showcase a well-executed mid-life update that enhances their appeal without straying too far from their original character.
