While the Citroen C4 Aircross is probably the most overlooked of the Mitsubishi ASX-based triplets – along with the Peugeot 4008 and the ASX itself – it is almost certainly the best looking of the three.
Looks ARE subjective, but we here at OVERSTEER rather like the C4 Aircross for its distinct twist of Citroen-quirk on what is an otherwise conventional product.
Outside
Likes: Definitely the best looking of the trio of vehicles that share the majority of the sheet metal (along with the Mitsubishi ASX and Peugeot 4008). Conventionally handsome and yet still with a distinct tinge of Citroen quirk.
Dislikes: Despite the cool and slightly quirky taillights, it still looks a lot like an ASX from the rear 3/4 angle…
Inside
Likes: The majority of the contact points are made from or covered in good quality materials. Very open and airy. Good seating position.
Dislikes: Apart from the steering wheel, you could be sitting in a Mitsubishi. Seats flat and unsupportive.
Under the bonnet
Likes: 2.0-litre 110kW/199Nm engine is frugal and capable, with good mid-range torque. Around-town performance is strong and willing.
Dislikes: It’s got a CVT…
On the road
Likes: Nicely balanced ride and handling combo. Comfortable cruiser, but is capable of being chucked into a corner eagerly if needed. Easily manoeuvrable and functional around town and generally pleasant and capable on the open road.
Dislikes: It’s got a CVT…
Verdict
A pleasing and handsome variant on the Mitsubishi ASX-theme is probably the pick of the trio as far as looks and just general niceness goes (albeit with the Peugeot a relatively close second). It is, however, still let down by the same issue that haunts the ASX – the use of a continuously variable transmission.
The CVT is particularly unsuited to the C4’s otherwise amiable four-cylinder petrol engine, transforming it from an unremarkable, but generally capable power-plant into a groaning source of desperation and despair as the CVT thrashes it up to the higher end of its rev range and slurs its way around up there until your desired speed is reached. Or you get sick of the noise.
This aside, the C4 is a well-priced, pleasingly competent package. The same can be said of the Mitsubishi and Peugeot alternatives, but there is something about the Citroen’s styling and its quirky brand heritage that just elevates the C4 above the other two.
It is actually this same quirky brand heritage that makes the CVT almost bearable; it is, after all, a Citroen. They all do something strange.
Price: $38,990
Engine: 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder petrol
Power/torque: 110kW/199Nm
Transmission: Continuously variable transmission
0-100km/h: 10.2 seconds
Fuel consumption: 7.9L/100km
CO2 emissions: 185g/km
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