Citroen is a manufacturer that has ramped up its electric car line-up at quite a rate, with five EVs already available and more set to become available in the near future.
The French firm has put a particular focus on the affordability of its EVs, with a ‘cars for the masses’ approach. Its most popular option is the e-C4 hatchback, which has recently been joined by a new e-C4 X model, bringing more of a saloon-like shape. But which of these two cars should you choose? Let’s take a look.
What are they?
The C4 has been Citroen’s mid-size hatchback for the last two decades, and though it wasn’t on sale for a few years recently, the firm returned in 2021 with a new SUV-inspired model, albeit still with the same dimensions of a hatchback. Available with petrol and diesel engines, the star of the range was the electric e-C4.
Citroen has recently decided to expand its line-up with a new model called the e-C4 X. While it looks similar to the e-C4 hatchback from the front, it’s around the side where things all change, with this ‘X’ version adopting an elongated saloon profile. The result is that it’s 24cm longer than the standard hatchback.
What powertrain do they use?
One thing that isn’t different about these two cars is what powers them, with a shared system being adopted across both.
Citroen has recently bolstered the powertrain in both these cars too, giving them a larger battery and more powerful motor. It means that brand-new models will now use a 54kWh battery and a 154bhp electric motor, which allows for a claimed range of up to 260 miles. You’ll get a handful more miles with the e-C4 X, due to its more slippery shape, but the differences are small.
A 10 to 80 per cent charge at a 100kW DC rapid charger will also take just 30 minutes.
What equipment do they come with?
The equipment of the e-C4 and e-C4 X is also equal, with each car coming in the same three trim levels – Sense, Shine and Shine Plus – while the level of kit is the same across both too.
The range starts with the Sense, with key standard features including automatic climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and a 10-inch touchscreen with smartphone mirroring. The Shine trim (called C-Series Edition on the e-C4 hatch) then brings a reversing camera, satellite navigation and a heated steering wheel.
At the top of the line-up, the Shine Plus brings adaptive cruise control, heated and electric front seats and Alcantara and leather-effect seats.
What do they cost?
The similarities between these two Citroens also extend to the price, with the firm ensuring they both offer great value by pricing them identically.
It means the e-C4 and e-C4 X start from £31,995 for the Sense trim, bringing a lot of car for the money. The mid-range model costs from £34,495, while it’s only another £500 to upgrade to the flagship version.
What about practicality?
Other than styling, the main difference between these two cars is their practicality. On paper, the e-C4 X looks like the better choice, as there’s a lot more metal to it with its increased dimensions. Boot space stands at 510 litres – significantly improving over the 380 litres you get with the regular hatchback. However, it’s worth mentioning that the saloon boot opening is quite narrow, and will be of no use to pet owners, for example.
Rear space in both cars is generous, though the e-C4 X has a slight edge as the rear seat backs recline further, freeing up a lot more room in the cabin.
Verdict
Both of these electric Citroens are great options in the EV market. They’re practical, good value for money and major on comfort.
In truth, there’s not a huge amount between them, so it will likely come down to which you prefer the look of, and what sort of boot style suits you best.