Citroen’s E-C4 X offers premium comfort

The recent arrival of Citroen’s E-C4 X means the brand now offers two electric vehicles competing in the compact family C-segment. Their other contender is the E-C4.

The E-C4 X reflects the styling of the larger C5 X. It is one of the most comfortable cars I have driven in some time and will appeal to buyers with young families who need more space than in a standard hatchback but who want to go the all-electric route. It is an alternative to classic mid-size saloon and SUV/Crossover models as it combines a mix of all three and boasts a sleek roofline from the top of the windscreen to the top of the boot lid. The front end has a high, horizontal bonnet and chrome chevrons that stretch across the width. The car’s lines give the impression that they are moving forward while the big wheels suggest a crossover/SUV-inspired stance with a higher driving position than in a classic saloon. At the rear, LED lights complement those of the front.

The interior offers a sense of calmness, comfort and wellbeing. Citroen are renowned for the comfort of their cars, particularly for their well-padded seats and suspension and the progressive hydraulic cushions provide a ‘magic carpet’ effect as you travel.

I enjoyed the big interior space, good all-round visibility, the driving position, the ultra snug and cushioned seats as well as the car’s excellent all-round drivability.

The driver’s seat adjustments, including lumbar support, are via buttons on the lower side of the seat.

In-car entertainment and technology features include a 5.5-inch driver’s instrument cluster, Citroen’s new generation infotainment interface with intuitive navigation and connected services, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This 10-inch touchscreen is bright, clear and easy to use. You swipe across with two fingers to change screens.

There are traditional physical knobs for the temperature controls, fan and seat heaters. The Head-Up Display shows your current driving speed.

The front passenger can use the Smart Pad/Support, a clever retractable support system integrated into the dashboard above the glovebox that allows them to attach their tablet and use it in complete safety. Type A and smaller C-type USB ports are provided front and rear.

While those seated in the rear enjoy generous knee room, a 6ft 2ins passenger said his head was rubbing up against the roof of the car. The sunroof wasn’t to blame as it didn’t reach that far back. But less tall people will have no such problem.

In all, there are 16 open or closed storage compartments providing a total storage volume of 39 litres. The boot door opens wide to reveal up to 510 litres of space. My car had a useful fitted rubber mat with a carpeted floor below. There’s more space below the floor for the charging cables, puncture repair kit and compressor.

In my review car, a 136hp electric motor with 260Nm of torque and a 50kWh battery powers the front wheels and allows a 0-100km/h time of 9.5 seconds in the sport mode.

The claimed WLTP-rated driving range is 360km. My real-world range worked out at 286km, but this would likely be higher if the car was used in a city-suburb location. Energy consumption is circa 15.4 kWh/100km.

The entry Feel grade has an impressive level of standard spec including 18-inch alloys, front and rear LED lights, fog lights with a cornering function, rear parking sensor and reversing camera, Hill Start Assist, and dual-zone air conditioning. Flair grade adds a Safety pack including active safety brake assist, active blind spot detection, heated front seats/leather steering wheel, all-round parking sensors, wireless smartphone charging, a high-level acoustic insulation pack, and a Highway Driver Assist which incorporates Adaptive Cruise Control. The Flair Pack gets a silver grey colour pack, Citroen LED Vision headlights, Alcantara and black leather effect upholstery with the Citroen Advanced Comfort Seats, and energy-saving heat pump.

Driver assist features include Active Safety Brake which includes night-time and cyclist detection.

A full charge with a standard home wall box will take 7.5 hours, or a public fast charger will do 0-80pc in around 30 minutes.

The C4 X is available also in both petrol and diesel options.

PRICE: While the range starts at €41,455, my car as tested is €45,160.