[Review] Citroën C4 Hybrid 110: is it the only compact hybrid saloon worth less than €30,000?

We often hear that new cars are expensive, and compact saloons are a prime example of this. Compact sedans under €30,000 are extremely rare! In fact, there's only one hybrid compact saloon under that price: the Citroën C4 Hybrid 110. So, how does this entry-level model perform? Find out in this review.

Is the C4 Hybrid 110 a truly compelling entry-level option?

Design: Despite cost-cutting measures, it has a stylish look.

This entry-level version comes in the 'You' trim, which, despite being competitively priced for the category, is far from cheap. It features the new styling of the restyled C4, boasting a more modern and technologically advanced front end equipped with LED headlights. The only noticeable omission is the absence of fog lights — cost-cutting measures had to be implemented somewhere.

The door handles are painted black rather than in the body colour, which contrasts sharply with the white of this test car and the optional Okenite White (£700). To avoid this, the standard colour is Perla Nera Black, which eliminates the contrast of the handles while also saving a few euros. Ultimately, the only aesthetic difference between this entry-level C4 and the higher-end versions is the wheels. While the C4 boasts large, 18-inch wheels, this base model has to make do with 16-inch wheels with generous sidewalls. Although the wheels appear smaller, there are clear benefits in terms of ride comfort.

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What sacrifices are made in terms of equipment inside the You trim?

The first thing you notice when you get into the C4 You is the absence of the Advanced Comfort seats. This is the main compromise on this entry-level model. However, the seats offered feature a herringbone pattern on the cushions and backrests and are plush, offering a high level of comfort. This makes the absence of the Advanced Comfort seats more bearable.

Before trying this C4 hybrid, I tested the C3 hybrid with the same engine. The difference in interior style between the two compact hatchbacks in the range is striking! Pierre Leclercq's team deserves praise for their work on the interior design, which makes the interior feel bright thanks to the numerous light-coloured touches. It's a shame that the brand didn't take the opportunity of the C4's facelift to make the interior brighter. As Johnny sang, black is black, but in this C4 he would have found reasons to remain hopeful. While the atmosphere may be too gloomy, the C4 Hybrid 110 offers perfectly satisfactory equipment focusing on the essentials, which are more than sufficient. This makes the C4 the ideal choice for those who don't want to spend a fortune on their car. Features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a 10-inch touchscreen (though it doesn't run the new Stellantis multimedia system), four electric windows and cruise control with a speed limiter.

In conclusion, although the C4 Hybrid 110 is the entry-level model in the range, it is still a highly relevant and far from basic option. Citroën has crafted this compact hatchback — the only hybrid under €30,000 — into a stylish and comprehensively equipped saloon, with no unnecessary frills and no missteps. Naturally, there are some compromises, such as the 16-inch wheels and the absence of Advanced Comfort seats. However, as you will see, comfort is not compromised, and the car may even offer a few surprises in this regard.

On the road, it is a genuine and pleasant surprise.

Naturally, the entry-level version cannot be equipped with the most powerful engine, especially given its competitive price. The Citroën C4 therefore features the same hybrid engine as the C3: a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 100 horsepower, combined with an electric motor integrated into the e-DCS6 automatic transmission, giving it a total output of 110 horsepower. But does this hybrid system deliver the same results in the heavier C4 as it does in the C3?

It's a longer C4, but not much heavier.

Weighing just 1,252 kg, the Citroën C3 is light, enabling the 110-horsepower hybrid engine to perform with ease. Although it is 34 cm longer, the C4 isn't significantly heavier than the C3, with a weight difference of only 76 kg. Furthermore, the performance of the small 1.2-litre, 110-horsepower engine enables the C4 to accelerate smoothly and merge easily into traffic, regardless of its load. While not sensational, the performance is sufficient for driving at legal speeds. With a 0 to 100 km/h time of 10.6 seconds, the hybrid C4 is only 0.8 seconds slower than the C3. This is a pleasant surprise in terms of power and proves adequate for this entry-level version.

The C4's efficiency shines through once again!

This third-generation model has always been renowned for its efficiency, thanks to its refined aerodynamics. This allows it to deliver exceptional fuel economy with all engine options. This was evident during my test drive of approximately 100 kilometres in the 110 hybrid version, which showcased its full range of capabilities. On this mixed route of city driving, secondary and national roads and motorways, the C4 achieved an average fuel consumption of 5 litres per 100 kilometres, which is roughly the same as the C3 on the same route. However, the difference is seen in urban driving, where the C4 consumes just 4.4 litres per 100 kilometres — 0.3 litres less than the C3 — with an electric driving share of up to 63%, which is well above Citroën's claim. The brand states that 50% of urban driving can be done in electric mode, but I can assure you that this figure is just the beginning and it's very easy to increase the percentage significantly. For instance, on a strictly urban route, I completed 87% of the journey in electric mode, aided by a 30 km/h speed limit.

This seamless hybrid system is so easy to forget!

The hybrid system offered on this C4 110 is the same as that found in other models in the range. It features a 28-horsepower electric motor integrated into the automatic transmission, paired with a 0.43 kWh battery and a robust energy recovery system comparable to that of a fully electric car. The result is a remarkably simple driving experience, thanks to a hybrid system so unobtrusive that you won't notice any difference when switching between combustion and electric modes. While the electric mode is remarkably quiet, the combustion engine is equally discreet. It does emit some noise, particularly during low-speed acceleration, but then becomes completely silent.

Supreme comfort sets it apart!

I can't hide it from you: the C4 is undoubtedly my favourite Citroën, and the past two weeks of driving it have only confirmed this. Beyond its style, it's the comfort that I appreciate most, and this entry-level model, with its 16-inch wheels, was particularly enjoyable for everyday driving. I suspected that the comfort would differ from that of the higher-end C4s due to the high sides, something that the absence of Advanced Comfort seats in this base model would inevitably exacerbate. Ultimately, I must admit that there is a difference, but the overall result is very positive. For instance, the C4 absorbs road imperfections and potholes better than the higher-end versions, largely thanks to its high sides, which enable it to absorb bumps, particularly at the rear. The comfort offered is simply excellent, and the absence of Advanced Comfort seats isn't too noticeable because the standard seats are very comfortable; you only miss the Advanced Comfort seats on long journeys. Otherwise, the C4 remains as regal and unflappable as ever. Every trip is a pure pleasure, enhanced by the electric driving mode which amplifies comfort by eliminating noise and vibration. To be honest, I've driven this C4 a lot, seizing any opportunity to get behind the wheel for the sheer joy of driving it.

A C4 that focuses on the essentials.

Naturally, a competitive price requires some compromises. For example, the absence of Advanced Comfort seats and 16-inch wheels. Inside, the C4 also lacks the slush-effect dashboard trim, head-up display and multimedia system. Although simpler than the higher-end versions, it still runs on a 10-inch screen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. It's responsive and fluid with simple, straightforward menus. My only real complaint is that Android Auto is displayed on an 8-inch screen while the climate controls remain on the side. Similarly, for those who want to disable it, the overspeed alert deactivation button requires two steps every time you start the car—a drawback.

What I liked:

• The unbeatable price-to-performance ratio — it's the only compact hybrid under €30,000.

• The superb comfort, enhanced by the 16-inch wheels.

• The remarkable fuel efficiency of 5L/100 km and the significant electric driving range in the city.

• The spaciousness and practicality make it ideal for families.

• The standard equipment that focuses on the essentials, such as automatic climate control and a 10-inch screen.

What I liked less:

• The interior is very dark.

• The outdated multimedia system.

• The lack of Advanced Comfort seats for long journeys.

• There are also some obvious cost-cutting details, such as the lack of fog lights and black door handles.

Conclusion: The C4 stays true to itself.

We might have thought that this entry-level version, priced under €30,000, would be inferior. On the contrary, it showcases the inherent qualities of the C4 that the higher trim levels amplify. The foundation is undeniably solid, though, and the C4 retains its strengths as a family hatchback. It offers excellent rear passenger space, allowing children of all ages to feel comfortable. It offers exceptional comfort, a level rarely seen in this category or even in higher segments. It is also remarkably efficient, with controlled fuel consumption on all types of roads, easily achieving over 50% city driving time. While focusing on the essentials, it does so with flair, offering a well-equipped package including dual-zone automatic climate control. Admittedly, at €30,000, I expected nothing less. It's also worth noting that it's rather crazy to be excited about a compact saloon priced under €30,000. However, we can only applaud Citroën's offering with the C4: the most affordable hybrid compact saloon on the market that skilfully makes the essentials its trump card. Hats off!