Citroen C4 Cactus: A Quirky Car's Mainstream Makeover

The Citroen C4 Cactus burst onto the automotive scene in 2014 with a refreshing, unconventional approach. It championed lightness and practicality, setting itself apart from its more style-conscious crossover contemporaries. Its most distinctive feature, the now-iconic Airbumps – large, rubberised panels designed to ward off minor parking dings – perfectly encapsulated its innovative spirit. However, with the passage of time and a mid-life update, the Cactus has undergone a significant transformation, embracing a more mainstream aesthetic and positioning. The once-bold Airbumps have been significantly downsized, relegated to the lower sections of the doors, signalling a deliberate move towards conventionality.

A Shift in Identity: From Quirky to Conventional

Citroen itself admits that the updated C4 Cactus's look has been revised to appeal more directly to buyers of C-segment hatchbacks. This rebranding means it now aims to compete with established players like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Vauxhall Astra. This is an ambitious goal, especially considering the Cactus retains the platform of the outgoing C4 Cactus, which was originally designed for a smaller class of vehicle. Citroen acknowledges this by developing a more traditional C4 hatchback replacement concurrently. The interior has also seen an upgrade, with a focus on enhanced comfort and a more upmarket feel. Buyers can now choose from four distinct interior 'ambiences', and while the dashboard layout remains familiar, new materials have been introduced to elevate the cabin's perceived quality. A large, panoramic glass roof is also available, further contributing to the sense of spaciousness and refinement. This evolution, however, has had an impact on its weight, with base models now exceeding the one-tonne mark, a departure from its original lightweight ethos. The overarching theme for the updated C4 Cactus appears to be 'comfort', a concept embodied by the introduction of Citroen's new, trademarked 'Progressive Hydraulic Cushions' suspension system. This innovative technology is designed to absorb larger suspension impacts more smoothly, reducing jolts and enhancing passenger comfort. The seats have also been improved, offering additional padding and lumbar support for a more relaxed driving experience.

Powertrain Options and Performance

The updated C4 Cactus comes with a revised pricing structure, with entry prices increasing by over £4,000, starting at just under £18,000. Initially, an entry-level 'Feel Edition' was available, offering a £700 discount. This model, however, was powered by an 82bhp engine and lacked the advanced hydraulic suspension. Once this limited edition sold out, the entry point became Citroen's well-regarded 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine, delivering 110bhp. This particular engine is widely considered the pick of the range, offering a blend of performance and efficiency.

Customers can opt for either a manual or an automatic gearbox. For those who prefer manual transmission, a more potent 130bhp version of the 1.2-litre engine is available, which also benefits from an additional sixth gear. Additionally, a 100bhp diesel engine option is offered. Citroen assures that all engines comply with the latest Euro 6 emissions standards, addressing potential concerns regarding diesel emissions.

The Verdict: A Compromised Vision?

The Citroen C4 Cactus, in its original form, was highly praised for its distinctive character and its departure from the conventional sporty SUV formula. It was a car that prioritised practicality and unique design. However, its less aggressive stance may not have translated into the sales success Citroen had hoped for, prompting the move towards a more mainstream appeal. The updated Cactus offers a composed ride and a refined driving experience. Its weaknesses are few, primarily concerning the limited rear space and the fixed rear windows, which cannot be opened. Despite its improvements, it still retains a degree of character that many of its rivals lack.

However, the C4 Cactus now finds itself in a more challenging market position. It is more expensive than before and is tasked with competing against more established and dynamically superior rivals. The decision to make it more mainstream, while understandable from a sales perspective, has inadvertently diluted its unique selling proposition. A comparative analysis reveals that the Citroen C3, which is not significantly smaller and offers comparable specifications at a lower price point, presents a compelling alternative. Ultimately, while the C4 Cactus remains a capable and comfortable hatchback, its transformation has cost it its 'class hero' status, leaving it struggling to define its niche in an increasingly competitive segment.

Automatic Gearbox: A Welcome, Yet Late, Arrival

One of the most significant criticisms of the original Citroen C4 Cactus was the lack of a competent automatic gearbox. Early models were equipped with Citroen's robotised manual 'box, the ETG6, which was widely panned for its jerky performance and frustrating pauses between gear changes. This outdated transmission significantly hampered the driving experience, making city driving a chore and compromising overall progress. While its simple three-button layout did free up some cabin storage, it was accompanied by a fiddly, aircraft-style handbrake.

Fortunately, Citroen has addressed this issue with the introduction of its latest 'EAT6' automatic gearbox. This modern torque converter automatic is now available on the mid-spec 1.2-litre Puretech 110 petrol engine. The EAT6 offers a vastly improved driving experience, providing smoother shifts and quicker responses, especially noticeable in urban environments. It is a good match for the punchy Puretech engine, although the added cost of the automatic transmission does move the C4 Cactus further away from its initial low-cost philosophy.

While the EAT6 is a significant improvement, it's worth noting that an automatic option is still not available for diesel models, and the most powerful petrol variants also do without. This remains a point of contention for potential buyers seeking a more premium or performance-oriented automatic experience. Despite these limitations, the new EAT6 gearbox represents a crucial step forward for the C4 Cactus, addressing a key weakness and making it a more viable option for a broader range of customers. The improvements in smoothness and responsiveness are undeniable, making the car a more pleasant and refined proposition for everyday driving.

Key Features and Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main selling point of the Citroen C4 Cactus?

The primary selling point of the updated Citroen C4 Cactus is its enhanced comfort, largely due to the new 'Progressive Hydraulic Cushions' suspension system and improved seating. It also retains a degree of distinctive styling compared to more conventional rivals.

Is the Citroen C4 Cactus a good family car?

While it offers decent practicality, the C4 Cactus has limitations in rear passenger space and the fixed rear windows can be inconvenient for families. Its main competitor, the Citroen C3 Aircross, is a more practical and spacious option for family use.

Which engine is best in the Citroen C4 Cactus?

The 110bhp 1.2-litre PureTech three-cylinder turbo petrol engine is generally considered the best all-rounder, offering a good balance of performance, refinement, and economy. The 130bhp version is also a strong contender for those seeking more power.

Has the C4 Cactus changed significantly?

Yes, the C4 Cactus has undergone a significant mid-life update that has seen its styling become more conventional, its interior improved for comfort, and its suspension technology enhanced. The distinctive Airbumps have also been significantly reduced in size.

What replaced the old automatic gearbox in the Citroen C4 Cactus?

The old, jerky ETG6 robotised manual gearbox has been replaced by the smoother and more responsive EAT6 torque converter automatic gearbox on selected models.