Citroën ë-C4 X: Available to order from 37,540 euros

The market launch of the new model is planned for the first quarter of 2023. Citroën Germany chief Wolfram Knobling describes the latest addition as follows:

“With the ë-C4 X, we continue the consistent transformation towards the ë-Brand and offer our customers a particularly attractive offer: The model builds on the strengths of the ë-C4 and offers even more space, an even larger trunk, and even more comfort – and all at a similar price. We are looking forward to the new member of our Citroën family.”

The new ë-C4 X challenges the traditional definitions of compact car bodies and offers customers something very special: a crossover design that combines the elegant silhouette of a fastback with the modern dynamism of an SUV and the spaciousness of a four-door. At a length of 4,600 mm, the ë-C4 X slots into the Citroën model range between the C4 (4,360 mm) and the C5 X (4,800 mm). The wheelbase is the same as that of the ë-C4 at 2,670 mm. With a drag coefficient of 0.29, aerodynamic efficiency has been optimized, which positively impacts the electric range. The combined electricity consumption according to WLTP is specified by the French at 15.0-15.3 kWh/100 km.

Only as an electric model in Germany

In Germany, only the new all-electric ë-C4 X will be offered. The WLTP range is expected to be up to 360 km, with 250 to 300 remaining realistically depending on weather conditions and driving behavior. Surprisingly, the “old” drive with 100 kW (136 hp) and 260 Nm of torque is still used here. Stellantis has already introduced a newer version for DS and Peugeot. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 9.5 seconds in Sport mode, and the top speed is 150 km/h. The 50 kWh battery is designed as a 400-volt lithium-ion battery. Three driving modes are available − Eco, Normal, and Sport. The battery warranty is eight years or 160,000 km at 70% charge capacity.

At a public charging station with a 100 kW DC fast charger, the battery is charged at a peak speed of around 10 km/min, with 80% of the charge completed in 30 minutes, according to the manufacturer. With the optional 11 kW on-board charger, charging at a wall box takes around 5 to 7.5 hours, depending on the available power supply.

Comfort as a well-known USP of the brand

For the interior, six different ambiances are available that build on each other. One of the features ensuring a comfortable driving experience is the innovative and exclusive Advanced Comfort suspension, which seemingly allows the vehicle to glide over road irregularities. The broad and welcoming Advanced Comfort seats are made of high-density foam in the seat core, an additional 15 mm thick foam layer, and a special construction. Passengers have the impression of sitting in a soft armchair that is firmly held in place, shielded from road noise and bumps. The spacious rear seats can be heated just like the front seats, which are also equipped with a massage function to further enhance comfort.

The trunk offers 510 liters of usable space. Unfortunately, a large tailgate, which would provide more versatility, is omitted. At least the hinges below the rear window allow for a wide and high opening of the trunk lid for easy access. Inside, a flat floor provides a maximum width between the wheel arches of 1,010 mm and a maximum length of 1,079 mm. Below the trunk floor, there's space for transporting additional items and storing charging cables. There's no frunk since the front houses the drive and air conditioning. The rear seatbacks can also be folded forward to create additional storage space, and a ski hatch in the foldable armrest allows for loading particularly long items that can extend into the interior.

Citroën has placed special emphasis on maximizing storage space into the passenger compartment of the new ë-C4 X beyond the large trunk. Up to 16 open or closed compartments can offer a total storage volume of 39 liters, all designed to be practical and easy to use in everyday life.

The ë-C4 X also responds to "Hello Citroën"

The new ë-C4 X receives the MyCitroën Drive Plus infotainment interface, which was recently introduced in the flagship C5 X. This new user interface is linked to a 10-inch HD screen in the ë-C4 X and can be fully personalized using a system of widgets. The new interface features natural voice recognition, activated by the command "Hello Citroën," which answers questions and executes voice commands. Up to eight profiles can be stored, with each profile linked to up to two smartphones to ensure the respective profile is wirelessly recognized when the driver enters the vehicle. The system also includes an Over-The-Air map update service from TomTom, where navigation maps are automatically updated monthly. The model is equipped with up to four USB-A and USB-C ports, allowing phones or tablets to be conveniently charged − two in the lower center console and two in the rear, ensuring easy access for rear-seat passengers.

Through the MyCitroën App on the smartphone, the battery status and available range of the ë-C4 X can be viewed at any time, scheduled charging can be programmed, and the interior can be pre-heated or pre-cooled. The ë-C4 X offers wireless connectivity and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

What does that mean?

The ë-C4 X ventures into an absolute niche: It is larger but less flexible than the shorter standard ë-C4 and combines many body styles in one vehicle − but it is likely to be comfortable. Many EU customers would probably have preferred a true "station wagon" here. We are somewhat surprised by the "old" generation of the drive system − Stellantis already has newer options available. However, if Citroën can deliver, the model is still attractive, as the price is hot for its size and features!