• Two power options available
• Near-silent powertrain
• Performance is unremarkable

What power options are there?

The e-C4 is available with a couple of different power options. The first is the 136hp model that comes with a 50kWh battery. This power unit is available on both YOU! and PLUS trims, and it drives the front wheels via a single-speed transmission. Like all electric motors, this version of the e-C4 serves up all its torque immediately, and that allows it to get from 0-62mph in 10 seconds flat. We’d call relatively leisurely acceleration – particularly for an electric car – but it’s more than fast enough for everyday motoring.

If you’d rather a touch more shove when you put your foot down, the e-C4 is also offered with a more powerful 156hp motor, paired with a 54kWh battery for greater range also. Again, by the standards of most electric cars it isn’t quick, but the 156hp power option does shave 0.8 seconds off the lesser motor’s 0-62mph. Both have a top speed of 93mph.

What’s it like to drive?

• Immensely comfortable ride
• No sporting intent whatsoever
• Refined driving experience

It should come as no surprise that Citroen has built a serene and refined environment for the driver and passengers. There’s nothing sporty about the e-C4, as evidenced by the unremarkable 0-62mph time and the equally underwhelming top speed of 93mph, but while the e-C4 isn’t quick, its lack of pace doesn’t hold it back.

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That’s because the French family car is just so comfortable and quiet. Refinement at speed is impressive, with low levels of wind- and road noise, while insulation from the road is very effective. Ride quality is – as you’d expect – excellent, and seemingly squashes road imperfections out of existence, although it’s ever so slightly inferior to that offered in lighter, petrol-powered C4s.

Of course, the pliant suspension has a predictable impact on the handling. In corners,  it can feel a little unwieldy and unwilling to turn in, but that doesn’t detract from the overall levels of grip, which are safe and secure. There’s a little body roll, which could discourage you from driving too quickly, but it’s still better to drive than the Nissan Leaf by some considerable margin.

That said, the Volkswagen ID.3 feels more conventional to drive, walking a measured line between good handling and comfort. But if you’re interested in comfort alone, the e-C4 is the undisputed class leader.