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The new, second-generation Citroen C4 has been revealed ahead of its official launch early next year. Citroen's Ford Focus and VW Golf rival has lost its quirky dome-like roofline of the current five-door model and instead favours a much more conventional form.

Its face is obviously related to the bigger C5 and its recently introduced kid brother, the C3, with its scowling headlamps and chrome double-chevron grille. Citroen promises improved aerodynamics despite the slight increase in width and height.

Inside, the centrally-mounted digital speedometer and symmetrical dashboard has been replaced with a more conventional arrangement. The current fix-hub steering wheel - where the rim rotates behind a stationary centre - has also been ditched.

Drivers can choose the colour of the dials as well as polyphonic sound alerts. A surround-sound audio system, lane departure warning, cruise control and massage seats are also available.

The new Citroen C4 will also be available with a new 'micro-hybrid' engine called e-HDi which features stop and start technology to deliver CO2 as low as 109g/km at launch and 99g/km in the future.

The car will make its official debut at the Paris motor show in October before going on sale in the UK early next year.

Further details, including pricing, will be announced nearer to that time. A three-door DS4 version is also widely expected to be announced in Paris.

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