While South African roads are awash with so many vehicle models, at least one car will always stand out from the crowd – Citroën’s C4 1,6 HDi.
From the front, the C4’s styling is refreshingly different with its cutting edge grille treatment and clever use of the French brand’s trademark double chevron. Its quirky styling injects a blast of fresh air into a market dominated by the conservative and often bland VW Golf, the Opel Astra (though to a lesser extent), and Toyota’s RunX further down the pricelist.
This car’s idiosyncratic looks make it really hard to miss, even in the usually nondescript grey model I drove in five-door guise. Inside, the cabin is as exciting as the exterior, and I was itching to try my hand at Citroën’s alternative take on the humble steering wheel.
Initially, sliding behind the steering wheel was comparable to a great act of faith as I was faced with industrial seat coverings and a shallow driver’s chair. Yet, once seated, it proved quite comfortable, though finding a good position was tricky. Despite the time spent adjusting the steering wheel and the seat, I usually found myself either slumped behind the wheel, or crouched over it!
The facia was a riot of electronic displays and large open plastic spaces. Firstly, the large digital display showing your speed (in large numerals), as well as the temperature, fuel level indicators and other warning systems is mounted at the base of the windscreen.
