In 1989, Citroën first demonstrated its electric vehicles, which were based on the C15 and C25 truck models. This initiative eventually evolved into the production of the AX Electrique, introduced in 1993 as the next generation of electric cars. The trend continued until 1996 with the Citroën Saxo Electrique, which remained in production until 2003, resulting in the construction of 2,174 units. In 1997, Citroën introduced the Berlingo Electrique, with 1,749 vehicles manufactured. In 2010, they unveiled the 100% electric-powered Berlingo First Electric.

In this post, we have gathered all the essential information about the four Citroën models we have available to salary sacrifice through The Electric Car Scheme. We discuss what they are like to drive, space and practicality and infotainment and interior. Let’s dive in…

Citroën e-C4

The Citroën e-C4 is an electric version of the C4, designed to compete with the Nissan Leaf, Volkswagen ID3, and Hyundai Kona Electric. Positioned between a traditional hatchback and a small SUV, it incorporates SUV-inspired styling.

Citroen e-C4 is comfortable to drive around town and on the motorway - The Electric Car Scheme — This image is sourced from TopGear

A notable feature of the Citroën e-C4 is its commitment to preserving space, distinguishing it from some alternatives. The car maintains the same passenger compartment and a 380-litre boot as the standard C4. Additionally, a lower section is provided for storing charging cables.

Unlike the C4, the e-C4 doesn’t have an entry-level Sense trim level. Instead, buyers can choose from the Sense Plus, Shine, and Shine Plus options. All models include LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, a 10.0-inch infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and dual-zone climate control.

Equipped with a 136hp electric motor and a 50kWh battery, the Citroën e-C4 reaches a top speed of 93mph. The 50kWh battery provides a range of 217 miles and supports charging speeds of up to 100kW, enabling an 80% battery top-up in 30 minutes. The range may vary, with town driving approaching the 217-mile figure, but motorway driving may reduce the range to as little as 120 miles.

The Citroën e-C4 is priced between £32,265 and £37,265. Although £7,000 more than the cheapest C4, it remains more affordable compared to the Volkswagen ID3 and Peugeot e-2008.

What’s it like to drive?

The e-C4 displays a soft suspension tailored for town driving, incorporating, 'Progressive Hydraulic Cushions', that provide a fluid-filled bump stop for a gentle response to significant bumps. Navigating through town is smooth as the e-C4 glides over speed bumps, and the light steering aids manoeuvrability in tighter spaces. However, the sloping roofline limits visibility over the shoulder. Rear parking sensors are standard, and models beyond the basic version feature a 360-degree camera system.

On the motorway, the e-C4's soft suspension continues to shine. While some wind noise is present, the car remains aerodynamically efficient, and wind and tyre noise are within acceptable limits. The 136hp electric motor proves competent for motorway driving, delivering a relaxed experience.

Heading onto country roads, the e-C4's weight, 500kg more than a petrol C4, becomes apparent. Negotiating bends reveal dulled responses and a lack of dynamism when attempting to tackle corners swiftly. The soft suspension contributes to overall comfort on rural roads, yet the steering feels light and disconnected, diminishing the driver's potential enjoyment from the driving experience.

Space and practicality

In the front, ample space is provided, facilitated by the compact gear selector that frees up room for the lidded storage box on the centre console. The cup holder is also located here, along with a tray featuring a wireless charger, a standard feature only on the top-spec Shine Plus model. A small slide-out tray in front of the passenger seat, perfectly sized for a tablet, and a pop-out bracket for the tablet enhance the front's practicality. The front seats, resembling armchairs, offer exceptional comfort.

Citroen e-C4 bootspace is roomy. Perfect if you also have luggage - The Electric Car Scheme — This image is sourced from Parkers

Moving to the back, the sloping roofline slightly tightens the space, particularly noticeable for the person in the middle seat due to its elevated position. The e-C4's floor is not entirely flat, featuring a transmission hump from its shared structure with the petrol and diesel C4. Those in the middle rear seat must share foot space with others in the back. Seatback pockets, USB sockets, and air vents are standard across all versions, with a rear armrest exclusive to the top-spec model.

In the boot, a generous 380 litres of space is available, equivalent to the original VW Golf's boot size. The adjustable boot floor allows for flexibility, and folding down the rear seats expands the capacity to 1,280 litres. Convenient storage spaces on the left and right of the boot floor, along with moulded shopping bag hooks, add practicality. Beneath the adjustable floor, a small space accommodates a coiled-up charging cable, though a front boot under the bonnet is unfortunately absent.

Interior and infotainment

The e-C4 marks a progression for Citroën in terms of cabin design and quality. Overall, it exudes a sense of craftsmanship and cohesion. Notably, the steering wheel and the toggle switch for Drive and Reverse convey a palpable sense of luxury. The front seats, positioned at a comfortable height, offer a pleasant seating experience, especially when compared to traditional hatchbacks.

In terms of technology, the e-C4's infotainment system is moderately competitive in the electric vehicle market. A 5.5-inch screen in front of the driver provides clear and legible information, albeit appearing relatively small. Positioned in the middle of the dashboard, a 10.0-inch screen operates the infotainment system, offering a commendable user experience. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections, facilitating easy smartphone pairing depending on the model. All versions come with a standard-fit DAB radio receiver, with higher-definition screens included in all models except the basic Sense version. The layout of the infotainment system, however, can be confusing, posing challenges for navigating simpler functions and potentially causing frustration.

Beyond the base Sense model, all e-C4 models include a three-year subscription to Citroën Connect services. This subscription encompasses live traffic information, connected navigation, and a speed camera on the dashboard which records data in case of an accident.

The Citroen e-C4 is available to lease via The Electric Car Scheme

The Citroën e-C4 is available to lease from The Electric Car Scheme for £455 per month. By getting this car through salary sacrifice you save £307 per month on National Insurance and Income Tax savings.

Citroën E-Berlingo

The E-Berlingo stands out for its practicality, cost-effectiveness, and generous interior space. Equipped with a 134hp electric motor, it delivers silent acceleration and covers up to 174 miles on a single charge. The vehicle offers flexibility with Eco, Normal, and Power modes, allowing users to optimize motor performance or conserve battery power as needed. Charging is convenient, with a 100kW rapid charge taking the 50kWh battery from 0-80% in just 30 minutes. At home, a 7.4kW domestic wall box requires 7-8 hours for a full charge.

Citroen e-Berlingo boasts a 174 miles on a single range - The Electric Car Scheme — This image is sourced from TopGear

Available in both five-seater and 7-seater XL configurations, the e-Berlingo comes in base Feel or higher-spec Flair CTR trims. All models feature an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard safety systems include Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Safety Brake, Driver Attention Alert, and Cruise Control.

Opting for the Flair XTR trim adds 17-inch 'Spin' style alloy wheels, automatic climate control, folding door mirrors, tinted side windows, and distinctive exterior trim. The five-seat models provide 775 litres of boot space, while the seven-seater XL models offer 209 litres. For additional cargo space, the third-row seats are removable, and folding them down expands the cargo space to a substantial 4,000 litres.