First look at the 2011 Citroën C4

Citroën have revealed these first images of the new C4 MkII. The new model is set for a full reveal at the Paris Motor Show in September. Australian buyers will be able to get their first taste of the new C4 around this time next year.

They’ve rounded off the edges of the old C4 and come up with quite a smart looking car. Based on these pics anyway. The interior, too, has a quality look about it. Let’s not mention the wheels, though. They have a certain a la Tempe about them.

Okay, overall maybe the look of the C4 is a bit on the safe side. On paper, at least, it works and presents a credible option to buyers that can sit alongside the class leaders. We’ll be better placed to judge after the Paris Motor Show.

More after the break.

UPDATE: More new pics have been added below.

THE NEW CITROËN C4: FIRST DETAILS REVEALED

Citroën has released first details of the brand new C4. Designed to exceed the highest expectations, the New Citroën C4 boasts a real positive energy – with exceptional levels of quality, style, interior space and occupant comfort, as well as responsive handling and impressive environmental credentials.

As with the New C5 in 2008 and New C3 earlier this year, the New Citroën C4 once again demonstrates the expertise of the brand in creating stylish and innovative vehicles with relevant technological advances.

With its sculpted lines and high quality finish, New C4 cuts a distinctive profile, striking an impression of strength, stability and balanced proportions. Defined and flowing surfaces, such as the purposeful front end and rear spoiler, hint at the model’s optimised aerodynamics. The tasteful addition of chrome detailing combines with the dynamic headlight styling and sculpted alloy wheels to give the new model a premium presence.

Promising precise control and accomplished handling, New C4’s driver focused cabin environment combines with impressive acoustic comfort and soundproofing to deliver a true impression of on-road confidence.

New C4 features compact exterior dimensions and generous internal volumes that make it spacious and thoroughly versatile. At just 4.33m long, 1.79m wide and 1.49m high, New C4 is just 5cm longer, 2cm wider and 3cm taller than the current model. The 408-litre boot is the biggest in its class, with practical square dimensions and a lower sill that makes loading even easier.

In addition to optimised accessibility and practicality, the New C4 offers a genuine feeling of well-being on-board – with spacious, comfortable seating and impressive occupant headroom. Personal comfort in the New C4 can be tailored to suit individual requirements with users able to adjust the colour of the driver’s instrument display, select their own ‘polyphonic’ sound alerts, finely adjust the intensity of the air-conditioning and even immerse themselves in the rich surround-sound of the new audio system. Some models even come with a new massage function on the front seats.

Alongside existing range technologies, such as EGS (Electronic Gearbox System), hill start assist, automatic electric parking brake, Lane Departure Warning System and Xenon dual-function directional headlamps, New C4 will be available with convenient and useful new technologies – some of which are unique to the segment. These include a new blind-spot monitoring system, a cornering light function, cruise control and speed-limiter with road speed memory settings, and an innovative new service called eTouch.

As well as offering on-board emergency assistance, Citroën’s eTouch system enables drivers to monitor their driving patterns and fuel consumption, and receive advice on how to improve their fuel economy. The system also allows drivers to consult their vehicle’s technical status and monitor any necessary maintenance or servicing requirements.

Designed to be an environmentally respectful family car, New C4 uses the latest Citroën technology to reduce its environmental impact. New C4 will be available with Citroën’s new micro-hybrid e-HDi powertrains, which feature the latest generation Stop & Start system that helps deliver CO2 emissions as low as 109g/km at launch – and 99g/km on future models. Michelin Energyâ„¢ Saver tyres are also specified to help achieve these low emissions and to boost fuel economy. The control of the car’s overall weight – in spite of the increased dimensions and added equipment – has been achieved using new technologies, such as laser welding, in the model’s construction. The use of 15% ‘green’ materials – for example, re-cycled polyamide components – also enhances New C4’s environmental credentials.

The New C4 will be produced at the Mulhouse PSA Peugeot Citroën plant in France and will premiere at the Paris Motor Show in September, followed by and Australian and New Zealand launch in mid-2011.