• Every version has the same motor
• Near-silent powertrain
• Performance is unremarkable

What power options are there?

Every version of the e-C4 comes with the same 136hp electric motor, which drives the front wheels via a single-speed automatic gearbox. Like all electric motors, the e-C4 serves up all its torque immediately, and that allows it to get from 0-62mph in 10 seconds flat. That’s relatively leisurely acceleration – particularly for an electric car – but it’s more than fast enough for everyday motoring.

We don’t expect many e-C4 customers to care much about performance figures, though, and the Citroen’s silence and refinement are far more important aspects. Fortunately, it excels on that front with strikingly low levels of wind and road noise.

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.