Citroën C4 X: a true family car? I'm starting a long-term test drive to find out.

During a recent interview with Edouard George, Director of Citroën France, we discussed the brand's strategy and the positioning of its models. The conversation naturally turned to the C4 X, the unique 4-door sedan attempting to carve out a space in a complex European market. This discussion provided an opportunity to challenge Citroën: to put the C4 X to the test of intensive, long-term family use. The goal? To verify in real-world conditions if its inherent qualities can make drivers forget the presence of a traditional trunk (or boot, as some say). Citroën agreed to the challenge, and today we are launching this unique test program.

C4 X: a hybrid silhouette in an SUV-dominated market

The Citroën C4 X was designed from the outset for an international career. While the traditional sedan segment (with a separate trunk) is declining in popularity in many parts of Europe, it remains extremely popular in other markets, such as Turkey. There, the C4 X is a notable success, regularly appearing in the top 10 monthly sales charts. In Western Europe, however, the battle is more difficult. The market is overwhelmingly dominated by SUVs and hatchback compacts, which are perceived as more practical.

However, to judge the C4 X solely on its trunk would be a mistake. This car is full of qualities that families often seek. First and foremost, it embodies the brand's promise through the Citroën Advanced Comfort program. This translates to the Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension system, which masterfully filters out road imperfections, and specially designed seats that offer remarkable comfort, ideal for long journeys. Its rear passenger space is generous, benefiting from a long wheelbase, and its fuel efficiency—especially with the new hybrid engine—is a major economic advantage.

In a landscape saturated with SUVs, the arrival of a true sedan is refreshing. But the C4 X is not just a classic sedan; it cleverly blends design cues. It features the flowing roofline of a fastback coupe while also adopting some SUV characteristics, such as slightly raised ground clearance, a higher driving position, and large wheels that contribute to its comfortable ride. Offering this stylistic alternative is a real asset for Citroën. We have often said that one must look past the "trunk prejudice" to appreciate the C4 X. This is precisely what we aim to investigate by providing dedicated, in-depth content over the coming weeks.

My long-term test: the C4 X Hybrid 145 under family scrutiny

To carry out this mission, Citroën has provided us with a C4 X Hybrid 145 for an extended loan period. The choice of this powertrain is significant: it is the new 48V mild-hybrid system (rated at 136 hp, but marketed as 145) that promises to combine the smoothness of gasoline with reduced consumption, especially in urban and suburban driving.

For the next several weeks, this C4 X will not be treated as a mere press car, but as our primary family vehicle. Our objective is to report to you, with full transparency, on its strengths and potential weaknesses under real-world conditions. We will focus on answering the one question many people have: Is a sedan trunk truly an obstacle in daily life compared to a hatchback?

To find out, an intensive test program is planned. From trips to IKEA and the local recycling center to evaluate loading volume, to a family holiday trip to test long-distance comfort, and even loading bulky items, the C4 X will be put through its paces. We have planned a complete series of articles on the website, dedicated videos on our YouTube channel, and regular updates on our social media platforms. You will find a wealth of content focused on this 4-door sedan which, objectively, is not achieving the sales figures it perhaps deserves in Europe. We are committed to finding out if, despite its trunk, the C4 X is a genuine and relevant family alternative to an SUV.

The C4 X alternative in a wave of SUVs

The current automotive market presents a paradox: while many drivers claim to be tired of the ubiquity of SUVs, these vehicles continue to dominate sales charts. In this context, the Citroën C4 X, with its distinctive 4-door fastback styling, should logically be a strong contender. On paper, it has many qualities to win over buyers: supreme comfort, generous space, efficient engines, and a style that stands out.

With this very long-term test, we will be able to provide you with an objective, well-documented opinion on the real-world family usability of the C4 X. Our mission will be to confirm or debunk the prejudices associated with its three-box design. We want to extend our sincere thanks to Citroën for the trust they have placed in us for this major project. It is also thanks to your loyalty as readers that we can offer exclusive, in-depth content like this marathon test of the C4 X Hybrid 145. Stay tuned.