Citroën C4 II (B7) (2010 – 2018)

Reliability score : 5.2/10

The second-generation Citroën C4 (code name B7) marked a turning point compared to its predecessor: it abandoned the atypical design (fixed-hub steering wheel, 3-door coupé body) for a much more consensual approach, aiming to directly compete with the Volkswagen Golf. It stands out for its very high level of ride comfort, careful soundproofing, significantly improved finish quality, and a generous boot (408 liters). A facelift occurred in early 2015, bringing new light signatures (3D lights), a 7-inch touchscreen simplifying the center console, and the introduction of 3-cylinder PureTech petrol engines as well as BlueHDi diesels. However, its used car career is heavily marred by the disastrous reliability of most of its petrol engines (Prince VTi/THP family, then PureTech) and by AdBlue pr

✅ Strengths

Very high level of suspension comfort (typical Citroën)
Careful soundproofing, very quiet on the highway
Generous boot volume (408 liters, among the best in its category at the time)
Significant improvement in material and finish quality compared to the C4 I
Remarkable fuel efficiency of diesel engines (HDi and e-HDi)
Excellent EAT6 automatic gearbox (available after the 2015 facelift)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of petrol engines (VTi, THP, PureTech)
Slow BMP6 / ETG6 automated manual gearbox, causing jerks and premature clutch wear
Recurrent and costly AdBlue tank problem on BlueHDi models
Average rear passenger space for its size
Slow and unintuitive multimedia system (SMEG) ergonomics
Clumsy road behavior, focused on comfort at the expense of dynamism

🎯 Verdict

The Citroën C4 II is an excellent compact for those who prioritize absolute comfort and cargo space. However, if you are looking for a petrol engine, caution is advised. VTi and THP are to be avoided due to their design flaws (chain, oil). The 1.2 PureTech offers good driving pleasure but requires an impeccable service history (belt changed, frequent oil changes) otherwise engine failure may occur. Paradoxically, this car is best appreciated and bought with peace of mind in diesel. The 2.0 HDi 150 is indestructible, and the 1.6 e-HDi 115 is an excellent compromise. BlueHDi versions are very pleasant but require a budget set aside for the capricious AdBlue system. Avoid the BMP6/ETG6 gearbox and opt for a facelifted version (post-2015) with a manual or EAT6 gearbox.