Citroën C4 : What future lies ahead for the compact sedan ?

For some time now, the automotive enthusiast world, particularly fans of the Chevron brand, has been abuzz. Persistent rumors have suggested that Citroën is poised to replace its C4 compact sedan with an all-new generation as early as 2026 or 2027. Even more surprisingly, this future iteration would reportedly no longer be assembled at the historic Madrid plant in Spain, but relocated to Kenitra, Morocco. Faced with these claims stirring up online discussions, it is time to separate fact from fiction and demonstrate that one should not always trust hearsay, no matter how insistent. The future of the C4 actually appears to be part of a more nuanced and pragmatic industrial strategy from Stellantis.

The STLA Small: an ambitious electric platform confronts market realities

At the heart of Stellantis's future plans lies the new STLA Small platform. This architecture, designed for the group's upcoming B and C segment vehicles, was initially envisioned to be exclusively dedicated to 100% electric powertrains. The objective was clear: to prepare Stellantis for an automotive future resolutely focused on electric power, by offering a modern and efficient technological base. However, the current automotive landscape is characterized by a noticeable slowdown in electric vehicle adoption across several key markets. This "pause" in enthusiasm for all-electric mobility has compelled the Franco-Italian-American group to reconsider its approach. Initially, information circulated about a possible adaptation of the STLA Small to make it a multi-energy platform, capable of accommodating internal combustion or hybrid powertrains as well. Nevertheless, it now seems that Stellantis has ultimately opted for a different strategic path, a decision that will have direct and rather positive consequences for the current generation of the Citroën C4 and its Madrid production site.

The evolving CMP Platform: a hybrid solution to extend success

Confronted with electric market uncertainty and the need to maintain a competitive and diversified offering, Stellantis has made a significant strategic decision: rather than profoundly transforming the STLA Small, the group has chosen to modernize and extend the lifespan of its existing CMP (Common Modular Platform). This platform, which already successfully underpins the Citroën C4 and numerous other group models (such as the Peugeot 208 and 2008, Opel Corsa and Mokka, and Jeep Avenger), will be specifically optimized for hybrid powertrains. This approach will enable Stellantis to offer a high-performance and accessible hybrid range, coexisting with future 100% electric models which will likely be based on the STLA Small, potentially with shared or very similar designs. This choice has a direct and reassuring impact on the future of the Citroën C4. Instead of a premature replacement, the compact sedan is expected to benefit from an extended career of several more years. One might even anticipate a second facelift, following the one expected soon, to keep it competitive against increasingly sharp rivals and to maximize its lifespan before transitioning to a new generation, which will then likely be based on a platform designed from the outset for electric or proven multi-energy capabilities. Indeed, Citroën CEO Thierry Koskas highlighted the importance of the Madrid plant in April 2025, praising its costs and quality, a vote of confidence for its future.

The automotive industry is navigating a period of intense disruption, marked by rapid technological transitions and unpredictable market fluctuations. The upheavals are far from over, and manufacturers must demonstrate exceptional agility and foresight to avoid costly strategic missteps. In this context, Stellantis's decision to modernize its CMP platform for hybrid offerings, while concurrently developing its pure electric solutions with the STLA Small, appears to be a logical and pragmatic choice. This not only allows the group to meet current market demand for hybrid vehicles but also ensures the longevity and profitability of key models like the Citroën C4, while maintaining the activity of efficient plants such as Madrid. Therefore, the C4 still has many good years ahead, far from the rumors of an early demise or relocation. But what about the information concerning potential production in Kenitra? That is another, equally interesting story, which we will address in an upcoming article on Passionnément Citroën. Stay tuned!