Citroen C4 updated for 2015

Improved infotainment systems and new engine choices headline the facelifted Citroen C4 small car, which is schedule to go on sale in Europe in the second quarter of that year.

While the 2014 C4 is available in Australia priced between $23,990 and $28,990, the 2015 C4 brings a more assertive new look with more bright work around the front-end including a wider silver chevron grille that fills the space between the '3D' dual element headlight clusters.

Citroen has incorporated revised LED driving lights and curving character lines on the bonnet are also new. The brake lights have likewise been giving some love, showing off a modern multi-layered effect. Add new 17-inch alloy wheels to the mix and the 2015 update delivers a more luxurious look.

Nine colours are offered with two new ones: Platinum Grey and Spirit Grey.

Inside the new models show new, more concise dashboard designs fitted with a central 7-inch touch-screen with enhanced smart phone connectivity. Upping the luxury ante are new upholstery choices and the option a massaging driver's seat and a glass roof. Smart keyless entry, lane departure and blind spot warning systems are also offered.

Citroen says the C4 is also one of the most spacious in its class, with a 408-litre boot and a "huge" glovebox.

A pair of updated 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engines pump out 73kW/254Nm and 88kW/300Nm respectively.

However, all-new engines including a price-leading new three-cylinder turbo-petrol dubbed PureTech promise to reduce fuel consumption by 25 per cent. The new entry-level engine is a 1.2-litre triple that develops a healthy 81kW and 205Nm while using just 4.7L/100km and emitting CO2 of 110g/km. There's also a higher-output version of the engine worth 96kW.

The 2014 Citroen C4 currently sold in Australia is offered with one diesel and one petrol engine, both 1.6-litres in size, worth 82 and 88kW respectively.

Sales of the Citroen C4 in Australia have dropped substantially, from 203 cars in 2013 to just 115 so far in 2014, representing a 43.4 per cent sales slump. Citroen Australia could theoretically lower the C4's entry-level price below the current $23,990 if it got its hands on the new 1.2-litre three-cylinder price-leading model, but the Citroen Australia says no decision has been made on the updated model.

Citroen Australia's PR and Communications Manager, Tyson Bowen, told motoring.com.au the brand's official importer, Sime Darby Motors Group, was still negotiating with the factory in France in regards to "what it can do" with the C4 in future.

"It depends on timing, how much right-hand drive product and what model mix we can get," he said.

Asked if the low sales could see the C4 small car axed here, Bowen didn't rule it out, saying it was "too early to tell".