Citroen DS4 HDi 110 DStyle 5dr Car Review - February 2012

The HDi 110 is powered by a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder 1560cc diesel engine. It is surprisingly quiet for a diesel and quite reliable given that its power output is modest. It produces a maximum of 110 bhp. A torque figure of 199lb-ft at 1750rpm explain the sustained pulling power it exhibits on the road. The car has a 0-62mph time of 12.4 seconds and a top speed of 118mph. It is not the fastest car in its category but it is competent nevertheless.

Suspension is a little stiff, making the car jittery over potholes. Grip is good and the car has tons of body control in bends although the steering offers little in the way of feel or precision. The large, 19” alloy wheels are partly to blame as they suppress feedback to the steering. Replace them with 17” or 18” alloy wheels to improve the driving experience.

Wind noise increases with speed and if you're looking for a comfortable motorway mile-muncher, you may want to look elsewhere.

The HDi is an eye-catching model, with distinctive lines and a sporty, curved rear which gives it its elegant coupe look. From a distance, it looks like a two-door coupe because of the two, hidden rear door handles. In actual fact, it is a 5-door, 5-seater. The most remarkable feature in the HDi is the unique zenith windscreen, which recedes into the roofline, letting more light into the cabin for an airy feel.

Standard equipment is generous. You get power steering, stability control, central locking, climate control, cruise control, immobilizer, alarm, alloy wheels, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, rear parking sensors, driver airbag, passenger airbags and front side airbags, CD player, MP3 port and Bluetooth connectivity. The seats are part leather, enhancing the luxurious feel and look of the interior.

With so many features freely given, you will have little need to spend money on optional extras. Options you may want to consider are Sat nav for £750 and metallic paint for £450.

Citroen may not be well-known for its reliability, but it is reliable nonetheless. The brand has a reputation for good engineering and no iterations of the DS4 have so far been recalled. The HDi is fitted with all the necessary safety technology to ensure that you are well protected. It scored a 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP test, which confirms its excellent safety credentials.

The driving position is excellent, and is raised for comfort and visibility. The seats are supportive too, making it easy to enjoy long cruises. The dashboard has an upmarket feel to it and is supported by strong, neat panels. Most of the instruments are user-friendly but you will find yourself fumbling with the stereo controls, which are difficult to tell apart. The steering wheel too has plenty of tiny, confusing buttons.

Cabin space is generous at the front. However, the back is a little too squeezed for adults. The rear door openings are also tiny, making access to the rear difficult, however there is plenty of storage in the cabin. The glove compartment, central console bin and door pockets are a good size. Boot space is decent too and compares favourably to other cars in the class.

The Citroen DS4 HDi costs far more than most of its rivals and does not hold onto its value well. On the other hand, fuel economy is an impressive 60.1mpg, which is commendable for a car of its dimensions and performance.

A low carbon emission average of 122g/km earns the car the low Road Tax band D, which will see you drive tax free for the first year and pay £95 a year thereafter.