INNOVATIONS FOR ON-BOARD COMFORT AND
RELAXED DRIVING
The interior of the C4 boasts a host of innovations
in driving ergonomics, life on-board and functional
convenience. In addition, the C4 is also available
with an array of high-tech communication equipment.
DRIVING ERGONOMICS
The C4 features a dashboard of clean design lines with
a fixed-centred controls steering wheel that places
driving aids within easy reach of the driver. At the
same time, some of the instruments are positioned in the
centre of the dashboard so that the passengers can
contribute to the ride.
With the C4, onboard comfort means safety and
well-being.
The multifunctional fixed-centred controls steering
wheel
The fixed centre of the steering wheel features the
main comfort functions and driving aids. This layout
places the emphasis on ergonomics and easy use, thus
promoting driving pleasure.
Easy operation
The main characteristic of the C4 steering wheel is its
fixed hub. The centre of the wheel no longer turns with
the rim. The technical principle is simple: a toothed
ring linked to the steering wheel engages an inner
pinion, itself linked to the steering column. The space
between the ring and the pinion is used to couple the
fixed components: the steering wheel hub and the
steering column mounting.
A host of advantages
The multifunctional fixed-centred controls steering
wheel offers the following advantages:
- controls are grouped in the centre of the steering
wheel, thus freeing up space on the dashboard, and
giving it a simpler, uncluttered look;
- significant improvements in ergonomics, since the
controls are grouped in a stable and easily accessible
position, so that the driver does not have to take his
hands off the wheel;
- as the controls are on the steering wheel, they
remain easily visible, even at night, thanks to the
use of illuminated pictograms;
- in terms of safety, the fixed-centre design of the
steering wheel makes it possible to install a
shape-optimised driver airbag for improved driver
protection.
Balanced distribution of controls
The controls are split into four different areas, each
with four buttons and a knob:
- the top right-hand area groups the radio controls,
with volume and station settings, the memorised
station search function, and the mute function;
- the bottom right-hand area provides access to the
multifunction screen, with – in particular – the
on-board computer and the NaviDrive navigation system;
- the top left-hand area is dedicated to the speed
limiter and cruise control. If the driver opts for one
of these driving aids, a pictogram will appear on the
translucent instrument cluster, showing the mode
selected and the programmed speed;
- the bottom left-hand area groups the controls for
vehicle options. For example, the voice control of the
NaviDrive navigation system, the telephone controls,
the driver-configured button offering “black panel”
lighting as the default function, or the air recycling
function.
The horn is on the lower part of the steering wheel.
Conventional driving functions (lighting and wiping)
maintain their usual layout, with standard stalk
switches.
Driver-dedicated steering-wheel display
Driving information intended specifically for the
driver is displayed immediately in front of him. This is
the case, for example, of the rev counter, the indicator
and headlamp settings, and the mode/gear speed selected
on versions equipped with an automatic gearbox.
The background of the rev counter turns red to show
that the engine has reached its maximum speed.
Fitted on the steering column, this display unit moves
with the steering wheel to remain easily legible at all
times.
A dashboard designed to promote relaxed driving and
shared information
The clean, soft lines of the dashboard create an
uncluttered look that is relaxing on the eye. Enhancing
this effect, curves and relief are kept to a minimum.
The choice of colours and materials reflects the same
approach to design.
The dashboard is designed to share information, in the
same way as on a people-carrier. The centre features
three display units:
- a translucent instrument cluster,
- a multifunction screen with the on-board computer
and NaviDrive navigation system,
- an air-conditioning display unit for vehicles
equipped with automatic air conditioning.
The central translucent instrument cluster
The instrument cluster displays information on a
translucent strip located in the centre of the
dashboard.
Clear information
The translucent instrument cluster provides the
following information:
- vehicle speed,
- petrol gauge and range,
- water temperature
- total and partial mileage,
- information on the oil level,
- speed settings for the cruise control and speed
limiter,
- maintenance indicator.
Indicators corresponding to the child safety function,
the seatbelt warning lights for the five seats, and ESP
disablement are displayed on either side of the
translucent instrument cluster.
Perfect legibility
As the instrument cluster is located in the centre of
the dashboard, the translucent strip captures the light
perfectly. As the display contrast adjusts instantly to
the light, legibility is perfect in all circumstances,
by day and night, in full sunlight or in darkness.
LIFE ON BOARD
The cabin of the C4 is designed to optimise passenger
comfort. The cabin layout, the ergonomics and
characteristics of the seats and the soundproofing –
essential vehicle qualities – have all been addressed in
such a way as to create a relaxing interior
ambience.
In addition, the C4 features a range of equipment to
create a feel-good ambience, such as the glazed
panoramic roof and the scented air freshener.
The scented air freshener
A scented air freshener, styled to match the dashboard
design, also contributes to the relaxed onboard
atmosphere.
A choice of nine fragrances
The air freshener is available with a choice of nine
fragrances: Citrus and Passion, Amber and Sandalwood,
Cinnamon and Ginger, Lotus flower, Vanilla, Jasmin and
Mimosa, Soft Lavander, Mint and Musk, Ylang and Bamboo.
All these fragrances were developed by Robertet, a
company specialising in the creation of perfumes.
Customers will receive a kit with three fragrances
(Vanilla, Mint and Musk, Ylang and Bamboo) on delivery
of their car.
A fully integrated system
Placed on the central air vent, the scented air
freshener diffuses the fragrance selected through the
air conditioning system. A knob lets the user switch the
system off or adjust the quantity of perfumed air.
The perfumes come in the form of sealed, individual
cartridges, so the fragrance can be changed at any time.
A cartridge lasts around two months, based on one hour
of daily use. Refills are available from the Citroën
network.
Seats tailored to a full range of tastes and body
shapes
Looking beyond their styling, which is an explicit
statement of their qualities, the seats of the C4 are
designed to ensure an outstanding level of comfort as
well as excellent support.
Firm support, adapted to everybody’s tastes
To reflect customers’ tastes more effectively, the C4
is equipped with “comfort” or “vitality” seats,
depending on the trim level selected.
“Comfort” seating ensures excellent damping and also
provides sufficient support to hold the occupant firmly
in place without becoming restrictive. Placing the
emphasis on comfort in use, it is perfect for smooth,
relaxed driving.
“Vitality” seating is firmer to the touch with more
pronounced support. It corresponds to the pursuit of
stronger driving sensations and a more dynamic driving
style.
Pertinent settings
In addition to the conventional seat settings
(fore-and-aft adjustment, angle of back rest), the C4
also includes a number of other settings to ensure that
all the occupants can find a position to suit their body
shape and driving habits:
- steering wheel adjustable for height and reach,
- a driver’s seat adjuster that can be raised over 50
mm,
- manual lumbar adjustment on the driver’s seat.
The C4 can also be equipped with an electrically
controlled driver’s seat. In this case, the settings are
memorised to enable different drivers to immediately
find their usual settings.
Focus on acoustic comfort
To optimise acoustic comfort on board the C4, extensive
studies were conducted on sealing, and sources of wind
noise.
The main factors contributing to sound insulation are:
- the flag-shaped exterior rearview mirrors,
- the laminated windscreen with a damping film between
two sheets of glass,
- the thick glass used for the side windows (3.82 mm
instead of the 3 mm usually found on vehicles in this
segment),
- the windscreen wipers integrated with the scuttle
aperture,
- the anti-turbulence windscreen seal,
- the double door seals,
- the treating and filling of box sections.
Available as an option, the laminated side windows
reinforce the filtering of wind noise and external
nuisances.
Individual thermal comfort
To satisfy requests for individual comfort functions at
the front, the C4 features automatic two-zone air
conditioning. The driver and front passenger can then
choose their own temperature settings.
The automatic air conditioning system is equipped with:
- a particulate and pollutant gas filter,
- an air recycling function, activated using controls
on the steering wheel and air conditioning panel,
- a heat-reflecting windscreen, which considerably
increases the reflection of ultraviolet rays.
PRACTICAL CONVENIENCE
With its many stowage compartments, easily adaptable,
modular passenger compartment and boot foldaway
partition, the C4 is an easygoing car that adapts to the
requirements and needs of the moment.
A host of practical and well designed stowage
compartments
From the dashboard to the consoles and door panels, the
interior of the C4 possesses generous stowage,
including: a vast glove box, bins in the doors,
can-holders, a drawer under the front passenger seat and
nets on the backs of the front seats.
Evenly distributed around the passenger compartment,
these stowage compartments were designed for practical
use. The closed stowage compartments have a damped
opening, the drawers are of the push/pull type and the
ash tray is illuminated, as is the glovebox, which may
also be cooled. Some stowage compartments are intended
for specific purposes, such as the bag hook on the
passenger side of the central console or the overhead
eyewear holder on the driver’s side.
A number of stowage compartments are closed in order to
maintain the ambient, uncluttered atmosphere. For
example, the front central armrest, with fore-and-aft
adjustment, has a stowage compartment for CDs or the CD
stacker. The console is also equipped with a 12V socket
and a cigarette lighter.
Easy modularity
The C4 features a 60/40 split-folding rear seat back
and cushions. Simple attachments make it easy to take
advantage of the C4’s modular interior.
The seat backs unlock easily and can be folded down:
- directly onto the seat cushions,
- with the seat cushions raised, in order to obtain
additional space and a virtually flat load floor,
- using clips, after the fast-fit seat cushions are
removed. In this configuration, the loading space
extends up to the front seats.
A new boot foldaway partition
The boot of the C4 features a new partitioning system.
This system is designed to isolate and securely hold the
objects placed in the boot.
A simple function lets the user fold out the partitions
integrated in the boot sill to create three separate
compartments.
When folded, these partitions disappear totally into
the thickness of the boot sill. When partitioning is not
used, the boot regains its full loading volume.
The boot of the C4 can also be fitted with a closed
stowage bin on the sides, a stowage net and a range of
hooks to hang bags up.
HIGH-TECH COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT
To enhance onboard comfort, the driver can choose from
a range of hightech equipment including:
- the NaviDrive telematics system for stress-free
driving,
- the JBL hi-fi system for high-level acoustics,
- the Bluetooth hands-free telephone system for safe
communication.
Stress-free driving with NaviDrive
The C4 is available with the new-generation NaviDrive
telematics system.
It offers a number of essential functions: a GPS
navigation system, a GSM dual-band hands-free telephone
with access to the address book and audio system (radio
and 5-CD stacker). At the same time, passengers can use
the screen or voice synthesis function to read the SMS
messages received over the phone.
The main functions can be accessed easily using the
steering-wheel controls, which can also be used for the
voice recognition and synthesis functions. NaviDrive can
be controlled by the user’s voice without any
preliminary learning time. This feature is very useful
for making phone calls, finding your way, or accessing
the address book without risk. The system can also be
controlled directly using the unit integrated with the
dashboard.
The functions are displayed on a black-and-white screen
or on a large 16:9 colour screen.
NaviDrive was also designed to offer a number of
additional customer services: Citroën Emergency, Citroën
Assistance and Citroën On Line.
Working with the GPS and telephone functions, Citroën
Emergency makes it possible to locate the vehicle if the
driver has an accident or is ill, for example, and to
access the services of a call centre.
A customised hi-fi function
JBL, one of the world’s leading audio specialists, has
developed a hi-fi system specially for the C4. The new
system is designed to offer customised acoustics of
superb quality.
The hi-fi system comprises ten loudspeakers in six
locations, together with a subwoofer that is fitted in
the boot. The presence of the subwoofer in the boot
provides wraparound sound quality and an extremely
faithful reproduction of musical material.
The system is controlled by an amplifier located under
the front passenger seat. This unit is parametered with
the acoustic settings defined and optimised for the
cabin of the C4. Both driver and passengers enjoy
excellent sound quality, along with acoustic
reproduction that is perfectly adapted to their
environment in all circumstances.
Making telephone calls safely with Bluetooth
The C4 features a Bluetooth hands-free telephone system
(depending on the country) in which the address book is
displayed on the vehicle’s multifunction screen.
This hands-free telephone system, based on Bluetooth
wireless technology, is integrated with the passenger
compartment.
Bluetooth is a convenient and safe option for making
personal in-car calls from a mobile phone, since the
driver can make calls without taking the phone out of
his pocket. In this way, he can make phone calls from
the car without taking his eyes off the road or
releasing the wheel.
To make a hands-free call, the driver uses the
ergonomic control function on the wheel, and the
microphone built into the roof. Conversations are
relayed over the C4’s audio system.
The driver selects the name of a correspondent from the
address book of his mobile phone, using the steering
wheel controls. He can also use the “voice recognition”
function to initiate a call.
The phone directory and the name of the correspondent
are displayed on the vehicle’s multifunction screen.
|