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@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Citroen C4 vs VW Polo – Which one offers the better deal?

Two cars, one duel: Citroen C4 meets VW Polo.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

C4 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Citroën C4 vs. Volkswagen Polo: A Comprehensive Comparison

When it comes to choosing between the Citroën C4 and the Volkswagen Polo, potential buyers are faced with a choice between two distinct classes of the automotive world. Representing the SUV category, the Citroën C4 offers modern versatility and comfort, whereas the VW Polo, a hatchback, is known for its compactness and agility. This article delves into the technical specifications and innovations that set these two models apart.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Engine Options and Performance

The Citroën C4 offers a variety of powertrains, catering to diverse driving preferences with options for petrol, petrol MHEV, and electric engines. With a horsepower range from 101 to 156 and an impressive torque of up to 270 Nm, the C4 delivers a balanced mix of power and efficiency. The addition of an electric variant with a range of up to 427 km further elevates its appeal to eco-conscious drivers.

In contrast, the VW Polo is equipped exclusively with petrol engines, offering a power spectrum between 80 to 207 HP. While it lacks an electric variant, the Polo impresses with its manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Its standout performance can be seen in the GTI model, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds.

C4 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Fuel Efficiency

The Citroën C4, thanks to its mild hybrid and electric options, stands out in terms of fuel efficiency, with consumption as low as 4.7 L/100km for its petrol variants. The electric C4 models offer consumption rates as low as 14.5 kWh/100km, further refining its eco-friendly credentials.

The VW Polo, while not as diverse in powertrain options, offers competitive fuel consumption ranging from 5.2 to 6.5 L/100km. Its CO2 efficiency, classified in classes D and E, highlights a slight disadvantage compared to the C4, especially when considering the hybrid and electric options of the latter.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Dimensions and Practicality

As an SUV, the Citroën C4 naturally presents a more spacious configuration, measuring up to 4580 mm in length, 1834 mm in width, and 1525 mm in height. Accommodating a cargo space of up to 510 liters, it's designed for families and travelers who prioritize roominess and versatility.

The VW Polo, being a hatchback, champions a more compact design at 4074 mm in length, suitable for urban driving and tight parking spaces. Its trunk capacity of 351 liters is adequate for everyday needs but may fall short for larger hauls.

C4 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Tech Features and Innovations

Citroën champions comfort and innovation with features often associated with higher-end vehicles, including advanced driver-assistance systems and a user-friendly infotainment ecosystem. The electric variants benefit from quick charging capabilities and regenerative braking, adding layers of convenience and efficiency to the driving experience.

Volkswagen expands on its reputation for build quality and technology with the Polo, offering a refined infotainment system with options for enhanced connectivity. The range-topping GTI also incorporates sport-oriented features that heighten the thrill of driving.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the Citroën C4 and the VW Polo boils down to personal priorities. The C4 stands as a testament to versatility and eco-friendliness, particularly for those interested in the switch to electric mobility. On the other hand, the Polo caters to drivers seeking a reliable, agile hatchback with performance-centered options.

Both vehicles embody the evolution of their respective brands, providing compelling choices for the modern driver. Ultimately, whether your priorities lie in space and sustainability or compact efficiency and performance, either model is equipped to satisfy distinctive driving needs.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

C4 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

VW Polo has a distinct advantage in terms of price – it starts at 17000 £, while the Citroen C4 costs 20600 £. That’s a price difference of around 3561 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Citroen C4 manages with 4.70 L and is therefore slight more efficient than the VW Polo with 5.10 L. The difference is about 0.40 L per 100 km.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the VW Polo has a evident edge – offering 207 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 51 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Polo is evident quicker – completing the sprint in 6.50 s, while the Citroen C4 takes 8 s. That’s about 1.50 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Polo performs to a small extent better – reaching 240 km/h, while the Citroen C4 tops out at 210 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Polo pulls a bit stronger with 320 Nm compared to 270 Nm. That’s about 50 Nm difference.

C4 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Polo is distinct lighter – 1143 kg compared to 1403 kg. The difference is around 260 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Citroen C4 offers distinct more room – 510 L compared to 351 L. That’s a difference of about 159 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Citroen C4 performs slightly better – up to 1360 L, which is about 235 L more than the VW Polo.

When it comes to payload, VW Polo a bit takes the win – 457 kg compared to 406 kg. That’s a difference of about 51 kg.

Who wins the race?

The VW Polo proves to be dominates this comparison and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
VW Polo is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £17,000
Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW Polo

  • Engine Type : Petrol
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 80 - 207 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5.1 - 6.5 L
details

Citroen C4

5 (1)
rate

Citroën C4 wears its French eccentricity with confidence, pairing bold, sculpted styling with a supremely comfortable ride that turns mundane commutes into a gentler affair. If you value relaxed comfort, clever practicality and a car with personality rather than pretence, the C4 is a charming, sensible choice — and it won't make you miss the usual hot‑hatch theatrics.

details
C4_2021_EXT (7) @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
C4_2021_EXT (13) @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
C4_2021_EXT (11) @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
CL 20 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
C4_INT_2021 (8) @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

VW Polo

The Polo is a small car with surprisingly grown-up refinement, delivering comfortable packaging, crisp handling and a build quality that punches above its class. For buyers who want a practical, fuss-free hatch that still feels a little premium, it’s a sensible, slightly cheeky choice you’ll enjoy every day.

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DB2021AU00726_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00728_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00732_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00735_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00736_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00741_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

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Costs and Consumption
Price
20600 - 32000 £
Price
17000 - 30400 £
Consumption L/100km
4.7 - 4.8 L
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
14.5 - 15.3 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
354 - 427 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
46 - 51 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 108 g/km
co2
116 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
44 - 50 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
4 - 5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1403 - 1659 kg
Curb weight
1143 - 1378 kg
Trunk capacity
380 - 510 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
4350 - 4580 mm
Length
4074 mm
Width
1800 - 1834 mm
Width
1751 mm
Height
1520 - 1525 mm
Height
1431 - 1451 mm
Max trunk capacity
1250 - 1360 L
Max trunk capacity
1125 L
Payload
381 - 406 kg
Payload
432 - 457 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
110 - 156 HP
Power HP
80 - 207 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8 - 10.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
Max Speed
150 - 210 km/h
Max Speed
171 - 240 km/h
Torque
205 - 270 Nm
Torque
93 - 320 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
81 - 115 kW
Power kW
59 - 152 kW
Engine capacity
1199 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Citroen
Brand
VW

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What drivetrain options does the Citroen C4 have?

The Citroen C4 is offered with Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.