Citroën C4 History
History
Production of the first-generation C4 began in September 2004. Offered in three-door coupé and five-door hatchback forms, the C4 was notable for its fixed-hub steering wheel (the outer rim rotated while the centre hub stayed still) and a diesel-electric hybrid concept that previewed Citroën's later electrification strategy. The second generation arrived in 2010 as a conventional five-door hatchback, and a seven-seat Grand C4 Picasso MPV ran alongside it.
The third generation (2020) took a markedly different approach: a raised crossover-influenced stance with plastic body cladding echoing the C3's 'Airbump' philosophy, plus a plug-in hybrid ë-C4 variant offering an all-electric range. This generation is also sold as the ë-C4 (battery electric) in markets where Citroën promotes zero-emissions variants.
Generations
-
First generation (B7 platform) · C4 I
Launched Sept 2004 as a 3-door coupé or 5-door hatch; famous fixed-hub steering wheel.
-
Second generation · C4 II
Conventional five-door hatchback on PF2 platform; shared architecture with DS4.
-
Third generation · C4 III
Crossover-influenced raised hatch with plastic cladding; available as ë-C4 pure electric and C4 X saloon/estate variant.
Body styles
- Hatchback
- Coupé (first generation)
Related models