The Citroen SFZ (4B12 MMC) is a 2,358 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2013. It is part of the Mitsubishi 4B1 engine family, co-developed under the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and PSA Group partnership for transverse mounting in mid-size crossover applications. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and Mitsubishi's MIVEC variable valve timing system, it delivers 130 kW (177 PS) with strong mid-range torque and refined operation.
Fitted exclusively to the Citroën C-Crosser, a badge-engineered variant of the Mitsubishi Outlander, the SFZ engine was engineered for balanced performance in all-weather and light off-road conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 4 compliance across its production run. Its transverse layout and all-wheel-drive compatibility supported SUV packaging and traction needs.
One documented concern is premature timing chain guide wear, particularly in early-production units, as noted in Mitsubishi Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-07-019. This issue arises from inadequate lubrication at the upper guide rail during cold starts and extended oil intervals. From 2010, revised chain tensioner and guide components were introduced to improve durability and reduce noise.
All production years 2007–2013 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Citroen SFZ (4B12 MMC) is a 2,358 cc inline-four petrol engine designed for mid-size SUV applications (2007–2013). It combines MIVEC variable valve timing with sequential MPI to deliver smooth mid-range power and everyday drivability. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances performance with emissions control in a transverse AWD platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,358 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 102.0 mm | |
| Power output | 130 kW (177 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (ACEA A3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The MIVEC system provides smooth mid-range power ideal for highway merging and light towing but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain guide wear. SAE 5W-30 ACEA A3/B4 oil is critical for maintaining hydraulic pressure in the chain tensioner and MIVEC actuators. Extended idling or short-trip driving increases carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of direct injection. The MPI fuel system is robust but sensitive to low-quality petrol; use of TOP TIER fuel recommended. Pre-2010 models should have the updated chain guide kit installed per Mitsubishi TSB-ENG-07-019. EGR valve cleaning is advised every 80,000 km to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting ACEA A3/B4 standards (Citroen TSB-ENG-2008-04). Compatible with BMW Longlife-01.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all models 2007–2013 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets.
Mitsubishi Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 4B-FAM-01, 4B-ENG-01, TSB-ENG-07-019
Citroen TIS Documentation: CTR-ENG-2007, TSB-ENG-2008-04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 20763:2019 Road vehicles — Light vehicles with spark-ignition engines — Gaseous emissions test procedures
The Citroen SFZ (4B12 MMC) was used exclusively in the C-Crosser platform with transverse mounting and shared with Mitsubishi and Peugeot under the PSA-MMC joint venture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the C-Crosser and revised torque distribution in the AWD system-and from 2010 the facelifted C-Crosser II adopted the updated timing chain guide assembly, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Peugeot's 4007 to use identical powertrain hardware. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Mitsubishi TIS 4B-ID-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 4B series). Pre-2010 models have a ribbed black valve cover with exposed breather hose; post-2010 units use a smoother casting with integrated breather. Critical differentiation from 4B11: Original SFZ (4B12 MMC) has a 2.4L displacement with MPI, while 4B11 GDI uses direct injection and a high-pressure fuel pump. Service parts require production date verification - timing chain guides before 09/2009 are not interchangeable with post-revision units due to redesign (Mitsubishi TSB-ENG-07-019).
The SFZ (4B12 MMC)'s primary reliability risk is timing chain guide wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips or with delayed oil changes. Mitsubishi internal field reports from 2011 indicated a notable share of pre-2010 units required guide replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased timing-related failures in stop-start conditions. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality lubricants exacerbate wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mitsubishi technical bulletins (2007-2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2008-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN SFZ-4B12MMC.
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