C4's heading off-road

Bosses have ordered Citroen engineers to come up with an off-road version of the C4 in double-quick time

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Dan Strong

16th April 2007

The move is being made to help the firm head off competition from rivals including Volkswagen's new Touran 4x4 and the forthcoming Fiat X-over, which we spied on trial last week (Issue 955).

A mildly disguised prototype was spotted cold-weather testing in the Arctic Circle. Our insiders have revealed that, although based on a standard C4, the car will take its design inspiration from the C3 XTR. That means it will get chunky body protection including flared arches and bigger bumpers, designed to give the model a go-anywhere look.

As the picture inj the current mag shows, it's set to be an imposing sight. And, unlike with competitors, Citroen is reported to be looking seriously at making the vehicle a proper off-roader. The all-terrain transmission would be taken from the Berlingo 4x4, and adapted to fit the smaller C4 to give it real ability on slippery, uneven surfaces.

But despite the apparent commitment to making a rugged C4x4, there's no word on which engine the manufacturer will employ to propel the newcomer. However, the powerplant most likely to be used is the 2.0-litre HDi FAP diesel.

Offering around 138bhp and economy of approximately 40mpg, this motor would be the ideal solution for drivers demanding more from the standard C4 than is currently available. The new car is presently planned to make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, before going on sale early in 2008.