What future for compact sedans, a future Citroën C4 possible?

The European automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation, reshaping a market landscape that once seemed immutable. Recent news regarding the permanent halt of Ford Focus production at the Saarlouis plant serves as a stark indicator of current trends. This model, a pillar of the C-segment for over two decades, is stepping aside for new industrial priorities. This event raises a legitimate question for all observers and enthusiasts of the "Double Chevron" brand: in this context of a shrinking market for traditional hatchbacks, how is the Citroën C4 positioned, and what does its future hold?

The end of an era for compact hatchbacks

For several decades, the compact hatchback segment was the beating heart of the European car market. Praised for their versatility and balance, these vehicles represented the largest sales volumes for most generalist manufacturers. However, the dynamic has reversed dramatically in recent years. The discontinuation of the Ford Focus is not an isolated case but follows the logical sequence after the demise of the Ford Fiesta.

Other historic manufacturers are making similar shifts. Renault, for instance, no longer offers a traditional internal combustion Mégane, having pivoted its strategy towards the electric Mégane E-Tech, whose dimensions align more with a crossover than a classic hatchback. Even the premium segment is not immune to this questioning: Mercedes-Benz had initially planned to discontinue its A-Class before revising its strategy to extend it until 2028, proving the volatility and uncertainty surrounding this body type. The market share for compact cars is melting away, forcing manufacturers to overhaul their lineups to meet new consumer demands.

SUV dominance transforms the automotive landscape

The main cause of this structural decline is clear: the irresistible rise of SUVs. These vehicles now account for over 50% of new car registrations in Europe, a dominance built at the expense of traditional body styles, first killing off the large sedans of the D-segment before attacking the C-segment. Manufacturers are pragmatically responding to this demand by replacing their hatchbacks with high-riding models.

Ford's example is symptomatic: the production capacity freed up by the Focus will be allocated to new SUV models. One only needs to analyze current catalogs to see this ubiquity. For many competitors, the lineup is almost exclusively composed of crossovers and SUVs. This market standardization poses a significant challenge for remaining models: how to exist facing this wave without losing identity? It is in this complex context that Citroën's strategy with its C4 makes perfect sense and demonstrates singular relevance.

The counter-current success of the Citroën C4

While the segment contracts, the third-generation Citroën C4 is achieving remarkable commercial performance. Far from suffering the fate of its direct competitors, the French compact has climbed to second place in the segment in Europe, positioning itself just behind the unshakeable Volkswagen Golf. Even more significantly, it took the top spot as the best-selling compact hatchback in France this year, confirming the appeal of its atypical positioning.

The secret to this success likely lies in its hybrid architecture, which blends hatchback codes with those of an SUV. By adopting slightly increased ground clearance, large wheels, and body protection, the C4 meets the expectations of customers looking for a rugged style while retaining the silhouette and aerodynamic efficiency of a sedan. This bold choice, coupled with the Citroën Advanced Comfort program, allows the car to offer a unique proposition on the market. The recent restyling earlier this year modernized its front end and technological equipment, reigniting public interest in this model as it serenely enters the second half of its career.

What future for the lineup renewal?

While current success is undeniable, the question of the C4's replacement around 2028-2029 remains open. In a market that continues to evolve rapidly, Citroën will have to make crucial strategic choices for the fourth generation. Several scenarios are emerging for the brand. The first would be to persevere with this "elevated sedan" path, a concept that has proven its worth. However, the temptation to switch to a pure SUV exists, although this would risk internal competition with the new C3 Aircross or the future C5 Aircross.

Another, more innovative path is suggested by current design trends and comments from Gilles Vidal, the brand's design director. The search for energy efficiency, made indispensable by electrification, could favor the return of lower, more streamlined body styles, which are more aerodynamic than massive SUVs. Growing criticism regarding the size and weight of SUVs could also play in favor of a renaissance for hatchbacks, albeit in a new form.

The future of the C-segment is perhaps not sealed. If traditional models like the Focus disappear, those that know how to innovate and hybridize concepts, like the Citroën C4, prove that there is still room for different, comfortable, and efficient vehicles. It will be fascinating to follow upcoming announcements from Citroën, which faces the heavy task of renewing a model vital for its global sales volumes.