French automobile manufacturers they did not always strive to take a place in the top ten in the world. Today these are ambitious corporations that, despite financial problems, offer quite adequate cars with good prices and successful technologies. But confidence in the French car market has not yet been established at the proper level. In Europe these machines are considered budget class, comparing their characteristics and reliability with the Germans or even the Czechs. That's why the Citroen corporation is not so popular these days. However, there is some success in sales, especially in the new model line with an extensive range of cars for a variety of buyers.

The company's offer includes a lot interesting cars with exciting power units and unusual design features. But the company does not seek to promote cars on the Russian market. We have an extensive network of representatives, and even have a model produced specifically for our market (C-Elysee). But the Citroen corporation failed to achieve particular popularity. This is due to the instability of the manufacturer, a large number of questions regarding the factory assembly and a number of other unpleasant moments. But let's talk about everything in due order.

Citroen production - an established network around the world

Development French brand started in 1919, that is, the brand is almost 100 years old. In the 80s of the last century, a joint Peugeot-Citroen corporation was created, which continues cooperation to this day. However, the brands remain different, they have separate budgets and a range of personal technologies. But most of the equipment is used on the machines of both companies at the same time.

PSA Peugeot-Citroen has several dozen production and car assembly plants around the world. There are production facilities on four continents (the company is not represented only in North America and Australia). The network of enterprises is especially widespread in Africa and Latin America, as well as in China. The features of the corporation are as follows:

• maintaining the quality of production and assembly of vehicles, despite such a wide geographical representation;
• control of each released vehicle through multi-level vehicle checks according to an established automatic scheme;
• the most important parts and assemblies are manufactured only in French factories with increased quality control;
• manufacturing flagships under the guidance of the world's best engineers in the field of automotive production;
• attracting professional employees around the world, searching and creating a team of professionals;
• resolving financial issues and difficulties together with the largest corporations in the automotive industry;
• active cooperation with German and Italian manufacturers, development of joint technologies.

Such features allow Citroen to maintain leadership in some segments, presenting cars at exhibitions and auto shows around the world. Many people know that the Citroen company is experiencing far from the best today. better times In a financial sense, the concern became a victim of the financial crisis. However, the company continues to update model range and produce quite presentable and competitive cars on the European market. The French company is actively conquering the Chinese market and South American countries. All this allows us to hope for an improvement in the financial condition of the corporation in the auto world.

Model range and features of the equipment presented by the company

Many developments technical features modern cars Citroen comes with the help of engineers from major European companies. Recently, cooperation with the Japanese corporation Mitsubishi has been frozen, but this cooperation has also given a certain shift in terms of the model range. Even in Russia, despite the rather cold attitude towards French cars, it is fashionable to see a lot of vehicles with the Citroen badge on the roads. Among the presented models, the following types of transport can be distinguished:

• C-Elysee is a new budget sedan with good design and simple engines, created specifically for Russia, starting price - 470,000 rubles;
• C1 is the smallest hatchback in the manufacturer’s offer with little potential and a cute appearance, costing 520,000 rubles;
• C3 Picasso is an unusual voluminous hatchback with a non-standard design and impressive characteristics with a price starting from 850,000 rubles;
• C4 Sedan - a new model for Russian market with a modern design and good technology under the hood with a price tag of 670,000 rubles;
• C4 Hatchback - beautiful and stylish compact car With high quality assembly and materials at a cost of 820,000;
• C4 Aircross - a crossover built on a common C4 base with an expressive appearance and quite efficient engines, price from 1,000,000 rubles;
• C4 Picasso is in some ways even a futuristic car with a huge interior and unusual technology for the French for 1,145,000 rubles;
• Grand C4 Picasso - even more impressive car with the design of a spaceship, especially inside, the cost starts from 1,210,000 rubles;
• C5 Sedan - a large luxury car with excellent performance and business class interior with a price starting from 1,070,000;
• C5 Tourer - a station wagon based on the C5 with huge interior space and amazing technical characteristics for 1,230,000 rubles;
• C5 Tourer XTR - a special station wagon package, equipped with powerful technology and with certain changes in design, cost from 1.6 million;
• Berlingo Multispace is one of the most popular cars of the brand with huge competition but a very large number of sales at a price of 800,000;
• Jumpy Multispace is a passenger minibus with premium space inside and costs from 1.4 million rubles.

This is the immodest model range that Citroen offers in the segment passenger cars. You can also list commercial transport, which has become a completely adequate alternative for many enterprises. In particular, many companies use Berlingo and Jumpy in cargo form for urban transportation. French transport is not without quality, even if its reliability is far from ideal. In the absence of violations of operating conditions, you can easily increase the potential life of the machine and enjoy every trip.

Future plans and real prospects for Citroen

A company with significant debts is not so attractive to investors, which is why the development of the Citroen model range is still rather sluggish. You may have noticed that the corporation is actively using the C4 base and developing this area of ​​its activities in all possible directions.

Also, several models from the corporation’s offer are being built on the C5 platform. This means saving money to create an individual technical appearance for each car. However, there are also positive features in the future of the corporation:

• the model range is developing very quickly, updates keep pace with the times;
• the company always manages to present new products on par with competitors, without being left behind;
• many new cooperation contracts with Italian and German corporations provide a chance for cheap and high-quality developments;
• manufacturing cars in developing countries makes the company's products cheaper;
• Successful design solutions allow us to always keep the model range at its best, offering modern cars.

The concern has a lot of interesting projects in its plans for the future, which can only be implemented if there is sufficient funding. Joint cooperation between two French large companies allows you to stay afloat and sell everything every year more cars after the crisis. But for now there's no way out difficult situation no, Citroen cars remain not the first choice on the wish lists of Russian motorists. We invite you to watch a test drive of one of the most technologically advanced Citroen cars - the C4 Aircross:

Let's sum it up

The French corporation Citroen has a fairly high quality of cars, despite the production of all parts in different parts of the world. The company carries out adequate quality control of every detail and assembly of its vehicles, and offers completely adequate models and design solutions for its products. However, successful Citroen solutions are actually based on the same platform. This is the basis of all models with the C4 index in the name. The comfort class platform has become the basis for the creation of many interesting cars from the manufacturer.

The development and recovery from the crisis of the Citroen corporation is difficult not to notice. But so far, investments and investments are extremely difficult to pay off. The popularity of the C-Elysee and C4 Sedan, specially developed for Russia, rolled back after the exchange rate rose, and production in our country stopped actively producing models. The same situation led to the closure of a number of factories in China. Despite all the difficulties, the company continues to operate and offer its customers quality transport. What do you think about the French proposals? Citroen Corporation?

The "logo", as it is now commonly called, with the "double chevron" first appeared on the automotive market in 1913, when the workshop of Andre Citroen and his friends began supplying gearboxes to some car manufacturers.
Shortly before the outbreak of the First World War, Citroën acquired a plot of land on the Quai Javel, southwest of the center of Paris. There he built a modern ammunition production plant by the standards of that time, equipped with the best industrial equipment. During the First World War, this plant produced up to 55 thousand shells and cartridges per day. Serious and very profitable business, but only in wartime. However, the production of ammunition turned out to be not only a way to earn good money - technologies for the mass production of cars were honed on this “material”.
In 1912, Citroen, as they say, for general development, visited the United States, where in Detroit he was completely amazed by the Ford plant, which that year produced 150,000 copies of the now legendary Model T - 71 (!) times more than Renault, the leader in France. Before 1917, on the route between Roanne and Quai de Javel under normal conditions traffic About ten cars from different manufacturers were tested.
Secretly from everyone, Andre Citroen tested and disassembled such famous american cars, like Buick, Nash, Studebaker, while simultaneously exploring the possibility of mass production, which soon began. In fact, the first CITROEN was also the first mass-produced car in Europe.
Incredible, but true: already in the early 20s, 300 CITROENs rolled off the assembly line of the enterprise on the Javel embankment every day - in those years, an incredible number for Europe. And although Mr. Citroen spoke about his desire to start producing cars after returning from America, when his factories were still producing ammunition, and he began preparing for the production of cars, the founding date of the Citroen Joint Stock Company (Societe anonyme Andre Citroen) is considered to be 1919 , at the end of which the plant on the Javel embankment (Quai de Javel) was already producing up to 30 cars per day. Mr. Citroen outlined mass production as his goal inexpensive cars and for this, for the first time in Europe, he used Henry Ford’s “conveyor” method.
1921 - Citroen creates a special warehouse of spare parts for car owners.
1922 - Car production begins at Clement Bayard's rented plant in Levallois near Paris. The production of spare parts, accessories, etc. is also being established there.
citroen_5 cv1923 - The plant in Saint-Charles - 15th arrondissement of Paris - comes into operation. He starts making gearboxes for the 5CV. The first conveyor is being installed at the main plant, on the Javel embankment, which allows the production of 100 cars per day. The first subsidiary of Citroen Cars Ltd. is registered in London.
1924 - Production begins at the Saint-Ouen factories - model B12 and Epinettes - springs. Andre Citroen begins to develop an international network for selling his cars and creates subsidiaries in Brussels, Amsterdam, Milan, Geneva, Copenhagen, etc. 300 cars are assembled per day.
1925 - Citroen continues to organize a dealer network and begins serious advertising campaigns, a first for an automobile manufacturer. From this year until 1934, the Effel Tower will be illuminated with his name, the creation of which took 250,000 lamps and 60 kilometers of wires. The total number of dealers reaches 5000 this year! Citroen became the first company in Europe to have its own dealer network already in the 1920s. 1926 - Citroen adopts the Taylor method, according to which each plant will specialize in a specific product. The plant starts operating in Grenelle - 15th arrondissement of Paris. For the first time, Citroen is publishing its "standard" dealer manuals for service and repair, as well as instructions and lists for replacing spare parts. parts. At the same time, the first assembly plant began operating in Belgium, the second in England, and a little later in Germany and Italy.
1927 - Another plant - in Gutenberg, Paris, created for the production of engines and gearboxes.
1930 - The Clichy plant is built. Another subsidiary of Norks Citroen A/S is registered in Oslo, Norway.
1931 - The Citroen Transport Joint Stock Company (Societe anonyme des Transports Citroen) was established.
citroen_traction_avant1933 - The global economic crisis has seriously affected the French automobile industry, but Andre Citroen remains true to his principles. The plans include producing 1,000 cars per day and launching a completely new front-wheel drive car ("traction avant"), created by Andre Lefebvre and his team.
1934 - The disproportionately large financial costs for the creation and production of the Traction Avant for the period of the Great Depression led Citroen to a loss of confidence among credit companies and a loss of working capital. The first financial shock hits CITROEN in February 1934. Thanks to the intervention of the Bank of France, commercial banks provide the company with a loan of 10 million francs, but the debt is growing. Between April and September the company needs to pay 830 million francs to creditors on previous debts. Claims from creditors are beginning to be filed in the courts, and their number is growing like a snowball.
The situation is critical. Under these conditions, in order to prevent bankruptcy, the French government turned to Michelin, the main creditor, with a proposal to take the company under its financial control.
From that moment on, Andre Citroen retired and retired to his home. The upheavals of recent years had taken a toll on him and he became seriously ill.
1935 - In January 1935, Citroen was asked, or rather forced, to hand over a controlling stake in the company and was finally removed from business. On January 31, he resigns as president and sole manager of the Andre Citroen Automobile Joint Stock Company. Power at the enterprise passes to a committee consisting of three managers: Pierre Michelin, Paul Franzen and the representative of suppliers of the metallurgical industry, Etienne de Castel.
Citroen retired to his home, he was no longer seen at the plant - he did not want to play second roles where he had always been the first. In March 1935, Citroen was taken to the hospital with an aggravated ulcer, where on July 3 of the same year he died.
And the company named after him was forced to close its assembly plant in Italy due to new customs duties. Between 1919 and 1934, Citroen achieved a leading position in the automobile manufacturing industry. He was the first in Europe to publish instructions for car repairs. This company gave birth to the idea of ​​providing customers with a one-year warranty and free maintenance during this time, as well as sales of cars on credit. Citroen has improved its methods of studying sales markets and organized advanced training courses for sellers of its cars.
At the same time, concern was expressed for the image of the brand, which was already featured on 185 thousand cars. From 1924 to 1934, CITROEN advertisements were displayed on the Eiffel Tower. Citroen is credited with the invention of “industrial tourism”: he opened the doors of his factories to the public and organized tours of the workshops. A system for quickly transporting workers to the plant by bus was also created, a car insurance company was founded, and branches were opened in Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Germany, Great Britain, Sweden and Poland. The last and, perhaps, most important thing that the company is famous for is the series of revolutions that CITROEN made in the world of cars in the 20th century, releasing almost every of its models. In 1934, CITROEN introduced the fundamentally new model"7cv", now known throughout the world as TA, or Traction Avant (which in Russian literally means “Front-wheel drive”). Thus began the era of front-wheel drive cars.
In fact, until 1940, nothing special happened in the company. And this year the plant on the Javel embankment was bombed and a plant in Belgium was partially destroyed. But still, even during the war, the production of cars did not stop.
In 1947, the restoration of factories after the war was completed and subsidiaries were created in Argentina (Buenos Airos) and Sweden (Stockholm).
Citroen 2cv in 1948 - The Asnieres plant near Paris, acquired from Automobiles Laffly, begins operation. The Levallois plant completely switches to 2CV production.
1952 - The 2CV and H van begin to be assembled in Belgium. Created in the USA trading company Citroen Cars Corporation and another in Morocco.
1953 - A new plant in Rennes-la Barre Thomas, Brittany, comes into operation. Citroen begins to "decentralize" production. An agreement was signed with Panhard on a partial merger of the retail chain.
1954 - The Asnieres plant begins producing hydraulic systems, primarily for the DS, and from that time on becomes the main company supplying these systems to all Citroen cars.
1956 - DS assembly begins in Belgium citroen DS
1957 - In Cambodia, I begin production of vans based on the 2CV. Citroen and SCEMM, created in 1950 with the participation of Citroen, sign an agreement for the Mulhouse plant. The first computer was installed in the company's spare parts department.
1958 - Citroen - Spain opens a plant in Port o Vigo and begins producing the 2CV. On October 9, Quai Javel was officially renamed Quai André Citroën.
1959 - Agreements were signed with the South African companies Atlanta Industries (Pty) Ltd and Stanley Motors Ltd to assemble the DS.
1960 - As part of an intergovernmental agreement between Yugoslavia and France, Citroen signs a contract for the production of 2CV with Tomos. Assembly of 2CV and Ami begins in Argentina.
citroen AMI 1961 - The plant in Rennes-la Janais, province of Brittany, begins production of the Ami 6, and in Nonterre, near Paris, at the plant formerly owned by Simca, they begin to produce body parts.
1962 - Trading companies are established in Canada and Austria.
1963 - Caen plant purchased. An agreement was signed with Sedica (Madagascar) for the assembly of 2CV and 3CV. A subsidiary has been created in Chile to sell and assemble the 2CV. Type H begins to be assembled in Holland.
1964 - In Portugal, the Mangualde plant begins producing the 2CV. An agreement was signed with the German company NSU Motorenwerke to create a rotary piston engine and produce it at the joint venture Comobil (Geneva). In Yugoslavia, the Cimos plant (mainly Dayne) begins operation.
1967 - Citroen signs an agreement with Berliet. A subsidiary, Comotor, is created in Luxembourg to produce rotary piston engines (Wankel engine). One of them will be installed on the M35 prototype in 1969.
1968 - The Citroën Group begins reorganization. The created Citroen SA holding now controls the activities of Citroen, Berliet and Panhard. The holding structure contains more than 20 subsidiaries, including Societe anonyme Automobiles Citroen - production and Societe Commerciale Citroen - sales. Citroen signs a technical and commercial cooperation agreement with Maserati. Agreements are signed between Total on technical cooperation and with Fiat on the creation of a holding company (PARDEVI), where 49% belongs to Fiat and 51% to Michelin.
1969 - The Metz-Borny plant begins operations, replacing the Saint-Charles plant. Maserati is developing a 6-cylinder engine for the future prestigious Citroen car. A plant in Iran begins assembling a number of models. As part of the agreement with Fiat, Autobianchi products begin to be sold through the Citroen commercial network, and vice versa in Italy. An international car rental network is being created - Citer.
1971 - Citroen signs agreements with Inda SA (Paraguay), Quinatar SA (Uruguay) and Aveles Alfaro (Ecuador) to assemble the 2CV and 3CV. In Stains, it begins to operate as a subsidiary of SOGAMM (Societe d'Outillage General Applique aux Moules et Modeles), a former department located at the plant in Clichy. It is entrusted with the task of creating prototypes, components, quality standards, etc. .d.
citroen GS 1972 - In Yugoslavia, Citroen and Tomos sign a production agreement at the Simos plant to produce the 2CV, Dyane, Ami 8, GS and components. A subsidiary is established in Johannesburg. An agreement is signed with STIA for the assembly of 2CV and 3CV. With the Import-Export Company Globus from Iceland about the supply of various models.
1973 - The plant in Aulnay-sous-Bois goes into operation (instead of the plant on the Quai Javel). At that time, one of the most modern in equipment. Fiat withdraws from the joint venture and returns its 49% to Michelin, but continues to collaborate with Citroen in some endeavors.
So 1974 came. Probably one of the most significant. Michelin and Peugeot have decided to merge the companies Automobiles Citroen and Peugeot cars(Automobiles Peugeot). The purpose of this agreement was to create a group that would be competitive in the international market. Berliet left the Citroen group of companies and entered into an agreement with Saviem, one of the companies included in Renault. After the cessation of DS production, the plant on the Javel Quai, which had been operating since 1919, closed. 1976 - The Peugeot Group acquired 89.95% of Citroen shares and created the PSA holding company, which included Citroen SA and Peugeot SA. Citroen entered as an independent division, retaining its brand passenger cars. In the same year, an agreement was concluded to produce Citroen cars in Romania, with the aim of selling them in Eastern Europe.
1978 - The Orence plant started operating in Spain. In France, SMAE (Societe Mecanique Automobile de I"Est) is created as a subsidiary of Citroen and Peugeot. A computerized spare parts center is opened to support the Citroen service network. Visa begins to assemble in Belgium. And finally, Fiat, Peugeot and Citroen sign an agreement to develop a new light van.
1979 - The Tremery plant was launched to produce gasoline and diesel engines. It was created on new principles of production organization and management. A new computer center for design and production has started operating at the Sant-Ouen plant. Agreements were signed in Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, and the Central African Republic.
1980 - The Meudon plants near Paris and the SMAN (Societe Mecanique Automobile du Nord) plants in Valenciennes begin operations. A plant in Belgium is closing.
1982 - For 68 years, the company's head office was located on the Quai Javel, but this year it moves to a new location in Neuilly-sur-Seine near Paris.
1984 - The Oltcit plant begins operation in Romania, the construction of which was carried out on the basis of the Franco-Romanian Agreement of 1976.
1985 - Citroen changes colors. Now, instead of blue and yellow, white and red are used. The factories in Clichy and Nantres shut down in December.
1986 - After 6 years of financial losses, the prerequisites for “recovery” appear. Citroen introduces Plan Mercure, aimed at sharply enhancing production quality throughout the chain. The principle of “total customer satisfaction” is put at the forefront.
1987 - Citroen acquires the Cray XMP/14 supercomputer. 5 announced summer warranty from through corrosion. At the Tremery plant, assembly of the XU2 petrol engine has begun on new lines. These lines made it possible to produce 70 different types of engines, including 16 valves. citroen_zx
1989 - Citroen "rebuilds" its plant in Rennes-La Janais, intended for the final assembly of the XM. Investments in development amounted to 7.5 billion francs, including 1.2 billion for development and research. A dealer network created together with Mazda begins selling Citroen cars in Japan.
1990 - Citroën officially returns to motorsport with the ZX Rally Raid in July. In December, a contract was signed with the Chinese corporation SAW. ZX enters the Chinese market.
1991 - The ZX makes its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Citroen announces several programs aimed at improving the quality of work and qualifications of its employees. Another Cray starts working in the Citroen office. On October 14, Jacques Calvet presents the Citela electric car that REALLY works.
1992 - At the beginning of the year, a new pressing section comes into operation at the Aulnay site (6.420 sq.m. 2 units - 400 tons and 1400 tons). Basically, body parts for the ZX are made there. In July, the Citroen Institute was opened to improve the qualifications of the company's employees.
citroen_envasion1994 - The Antares project has begun, designed to bring Citroen factories into the top three in their categories in the world. Representative offices are opened in Poland and Hungary in February. In the same month, Xantia wins its 23rd international prize. Evasion appears - a product of cooperation between Fiat, Peugeot and Citroen.
1995 - In January, another project was presented - Magellan. The goal is to sell 100,000 cars outside Europe in 1997 and 200,000 in 2000. In April, SAME begins producing the ML gearbox, replacing the ME. At the same time, a new 16-valve 1.7-liter gasoline engine and a compact diesel engine for Xantia were introduced. The dealer network has 900 points of sale in 77 countries. In September, an agreement was signed to produce the AX with the Malaysian company Proton under their brand.
citroen SAXO 1996-1997 - Car production is increasing. The emergence of SAXO and Xsara. In Poland, SAXO went on sale in November and sold 900 units in one month. Citroen opens its WWW server. Another agreement is signed with Proton. In December 1997, a license agreement was signed for the production of Xsara at the Susa plant (Uruguay).
1998 onwards - In January, a new slogan was introduced - “two brands, one group”, which, according to management, more accurately characterizes the changes at PSA. At the same time, an agreement was signed to create an assembly plant in Porto Real in Brazil, designed to strengthen the companies’ position in the market of Central and South America. Xsara Auto PC was created jointly with Microsoft and Clarion. The President of Uruguay opened a new line to assembly plant, where the release of Xsara began. In Poland, production of C15 began at the Nysa plant. Berlingo is assembled in Argentina.
1999 – The millionth Xantia rolled off the assembly line in Rennes, and the Olney plant produced the millionth Saxo. Historical record - for the first time more than 1 million Citroen cars were sold. The HDi engine is coming into production on the Xsara. PSA joint development launched into production Peugeot Citroen, Renault and Siemens - adaptive automatic transmission (first installed on Xsara 1.6). Citroen marked its long-awaited premiere in the luxury segment; the C6 Lignage, a prototype of the future flagship, was presented in Geneva. Pluriel debuted in Frankfurt, the name of this model can be translated as “multiple”, indeed this concept car is one in many faces, it can be a pickup truck, a spider, a hatchback and even a convertible. In December 1999, Xsara Picasso was launched on the market with a unique advertising campaign based on the work of the great Picasso (the “Robot” video received an excellent rating from European viewers and experts). A Citroen Representative Office opens in Russia.
2000 – from February Jumper and Berlingo are equipped with HDi engines. The second generation Xsara is launched into the series, with new 1.6 110 hp engines. and 2.0 137 hp. The face of the advertising campaign is supermodel Claudia Schiffer. Another Citroen record – sales growth was 13.4%. The C5, a new model, a new alphanumeric index, was presented at the Paris Motor Show. Absolutely new system Hydractive 3+ suspensions, a wide choice of engines, a spacious and comfortable interior, a wide range of options, made it possible to call the advertising campaign “One hundred percent useful technologies.” For the first time for Citroen, this car was equipped with a Tiptronic automatic transmission with manual shift capability. The Berlingo is offered with a Modutop roof, with additional overhead compartments, a fan and five glass windows. The Osmose concept car is presented, a real city car with sliding doors, compact and maneuverable.
citroen XANTIA 2001 - growth continues, for the fifth year in a row Citroen increases sales. 139,000 C5 were sold, sales growth of Xsara Picasso was 56%. The Conservatoire, a 6,700 m3 museum in Olney-sous-Bois, houses 300 historic Citroen models and concept cars. The Xsara WRC makes its debut on world rally tracks (participation in 4 races), with Sebastien Loeb becoming its driver for the first time. New Citroen products were presented in Geneva: the C5 station wagon, two new engines for the C5: the HPi petrol engine ( direct injection, 2.0 liter 143 hp), 2.2 HDi engine (138 hp, anti-particulate filter), as well as an interesting option for the Xsara Picasso - a panoramic glass roof. The C3, the beauty and hope of the brand, is presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show. On new platform, with a phenomenal array of options, a high roof and a spacious trunk, the C3 became the company's new best seller. At the same show, the C-Crosser was presented, a new word in car creation. All-wheel drive, with all wheels steering, it did not have traditional pedals or a steering column. Control was carried out by a special steering wheel, which was connected to the engine, brakes and wheels only via wires. This eliminates the need for cumbersome controls in the cabin (which are unsafe in the event of an accident) and makes operation simpler.
2002 – sales growth was 6.3%. Warranty period for all Citroen cars is now 24 months (there is also a program that allows you to double this period). Sales of the new Jumper and Citroen C3 began (185,000 cars were sold during the year instead of the planned 150,000, the C3 received many awards). For the first time within the PSA concern, a new automated gearbox is appearing - SensoDrive. Combining the advantages of manual transmission and automatic transmission, it found its place under the hood of the C3 with a 1.6 16V engine. At the end of the year, the new Berlingo was presented, the main focus during its development was on safety and exterior/interior design. The C3 Pluriel makes its debut, winning over the audience with its versatility and receiving the Convertible of the Year award. The C8 appears on the market, the successor to the Evasion minivan, also created in cooperation with Fiat and Peugeot. At the exhibition in Paris, the C-Airdream concept was presented, representing the design developments of Citroen, which was also interesting with a fixed steering hub.
2004 - three major events for Citroen:

Double in the World Rally Championship (Constructors' Championship and Sebastian Loeb's first place in the individual championship);
- launch into the C5-II series;
- appearance on sale of C4.

Both newcomers received great press, and best ratings from EuroNCAP (C5 showed best result among all tested vehicles). C2, C3, C3 Pluriel sold 518,000 cars around the world (of which 150,000 C2 and 336,000 C3). The C-Airlounge, a prototype of future Citroen models, is unveiled in Geneva. The C3 XTR, an active recreation vehicle, went on sale in March. The Xsara Picasso gained extraordinary popularity in 2004 thanks to the new 1.6 HDi 110 hp turbodiesel engine; by the end of the year, total sales of the Xsara Picasso reached 1 million cars (of which 220,000 were sold in 2004). The longevity record was set by the commercial model Citroen C15, produced since 1984. By the end of the year, total sales of Xsara reached 1.5 million vehicles.
2005 – the widest model in the history of Citroen, from the mini C1 to the flagship C6. Both of these cars were presented at the Geneva Motor Show to great public reaction. C1 is of interest to city dwellers, for whom compact size, efficiency and operating costs come first. In addition, the level of safety (4 stars from EuroNCAP) and high consumer properties put this car at a new level in the supermini class. The C6 won the sympathy of Europeans back in 1999, when the C6 Lignage concept car was introduced, which went into production with minor changes. The C6 is interesting primarily for its technology and excellent level of safety (including a record 4 stars from EuroNCAP for pedestrian protection). The C6 features Citroen's new hydropneumatic suspension design - the “flying carpet”. Even more functional, it allows you to raise passenger comfort to an unprecedented level. Sales record: more than 1 million 395 thousand cars sold worldwide. The European market share increased to 6.7%, in France Citroen won 14% of customers. A record year for Citroen in Germany, with sales up 20.3% to 80,000 vehicles. For the third year in a row, Citroen won the Constructors' Championship in the WRC, Sebastien Loeb won his second championship title and Dani Sordo won the Junior World Rally Championship (JWRC) driving a C2 Super 1600.

Recently, a well-known European manufacturer presented to the public its new city car called “C3 Citroen”. The manufacturing country (France) plans to conquer new items based on the modern design, its good technical specifications and reasonable price. Also, according to the company, the hatchback has changed its finishing materials to higher quality ones. But we will find out whether it will be able to achieve its goal a little later, but for now let’s take a closer look at the machine and find out what its manufacturing country wants to conquer.

Citroen C3: design review

If you look at appearance new items, you can see that the front part of the car has undergone the main changes. At the front, the hatchback has a new impact bumper; inside it, the manufacturer has provided space for LED headlights, which are called Fog lights are also present here - they are located slightly lower. also changed its design and became more voluminous. And this is not all the innovations with which the country that produces the Citroen C3 wants to conquer the market. The moldings on the side of the car are trimmed mainly with chrome, and from below you can see small reflectors that signal drivers about the appearance of an oncoming car at night.

Specifications

The country of origin of the Citroen C3 decided to focus on efficiency and environmental friendliness, completely replacing the 4-cylinder engine line with a three-cylinder one. From now on, the base engine is a 68-horsepower unit with a displacement of 1000 cubic centimeters. This engine really turned out to be economical - it consumes about 4.3 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers. The average is a 1.2-liter engine, the peak power of which is 82 horsepower. With such a unit, the new product consumes a little more (4.5 liters) of gasoline per 100 kilometers. The top-end engine with a power of 120 “horses” and a volume of 1500 “cubes” consumes no more than 6.5 liters of fuel per hundred. By the way, the latter engine is not included in the list of 3-cylinder engines - it was borrowed from the 208 Peugeot and will be available on both the Russian and European markets. The company also has 3 diesel units, but they will not be supplied to Russia. All engines are equipped with either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission. But it’s not a fact that the first option will survive until next year. In the future, the company plans to replace it with a more progressive 5-speed automatic transmission.

Pricing policy

The country of origin of the Citroen C3 decided not to greatly inflate the cost of its new product. Thus, the restyled version of the hatchback will rise in price by only 15,000 rubles and will cost about 500 thousand. As for the most expensive configuration, it will cost buyers 635 thousand rubles, but this is far from a budget price. At approximately the same price, a similar small car called Citroen C4 is offered, the country of origin of which also intends to conquer the entire world market.

The pride of the French is the “sent from above” brand Citroën

Car brands can be iconic and historical, but this is not the case with Citroën, which combines both. All this is because the company has always been faithful to its traditions and was ahead of its time in its development. Only cars of this brand were chosen by the head of state and Fantômas, and it was the Citroën car that saved his life during the assassination attempt on General de Gaulle. In the company's homeland, France, Citroën cars are called “sent from above” and are rightfully proud of them.

The origins of the auto brand

Andre Citroen was born in 1878. His father Levi Citroen at that time was a successful entrepreneur involved in the processing of precious stones and their subsequent sale. But his father was not his mentor in the business world. When Andre was only 6 years old, the head of the family committed suicide. After Levi's death, his family received not only a large inheritance, but, more importantly, connections in Parisian financial and industrial circles. In those years, the sons traditionally continued to run the family business, but young Citroen was far from trade; he was more attracted to technology. Therefore, after graduating from the Polytechnic School at the age of 23, he goes to work in the workshops of his friends Estens, who produce parts for steam locomotives. After only 4 years, Andre invests his entire inheritance in the Estens’ business and becomes a co-owner of their business.

While in Poland, Citroen happened to get into a small factory where, among other parts, gears designed by an unknown self-taught mechanic were also produced. Citroen immediately realized the promise of this technology and acquired a patent for its use. Having become a partner in the Estens' business, the enterprising Andre set up the production of gears at the plant, which were much more advanced than the analogues produced by competitors. Soon, these products begin to be in demand in many countries, which in turn brings huge financial profits to their owners. From this time, the company’s corporate emblem, now known to almost everyone, began in the form of two inverted letters “V”, which are a schematic designation of bevel gears. The French themselves call this emblem a “double chevron”.

At the plant, Andre performed the duties of not only a commercial director, but also a technical director. And in a short time, the young entrepreneur no longer had worthy competitors. Thanks to the excellent reputation he had earned, Citroen was invited to take the position of technical director at the Mogs car plant in 1908, after which things for the company began to go uphill.

First world war did not stop Andre from showing his entrepreneurial skills. Realizing how catastrophic the situation with ammunition is for the French army, Citroen proposes that the War Ministry conclude a contract with it to build a plant for large-scale production of shells within three months. After long negotiations, the state finally agrees to Citroen’s proposal and allocates him 20% of the required amount. Andre borrows the remaining money from friends, financiers and industrialists. During the indicated three-month period, a factory appeared on the empty banks of the Seine, producing more ammunition than all other enterprises combined. Andre himself attributed his successes to “excellent organization.”

Andre Citroen's first steps in the automotive industry

Even when the war was in full swing, the entrepreneur became interested in the idea of ​​​​creating his own car and ordered the designers to draw drawings of the car, which later received his name. And when the war ended, Citroen had everything to organize his own car production enterprise: experience, highly qualified specialists, production facilities where ammunition had previously been created, and huge sums of money earned in the war. In 1912, Andre visited Ford factories and learned details about the American assembly line production of cars. 7 years later, Citroen, together with engineer Jules Salomon, began creating cars.

In 1919, all French newspapers were full of announcements about the imminent release of a new car, the cost of which would be only 7.25 thousand francs. At that time, no automaker could offer a similar low cost. This news had a simply stunning effect. In just a couple of weeks, about 16 thousand applications were received to purchase a new product called Citroën “A”, which was released in the late spring of 1919. The model was equipped with a 1.3-liter engine developing a power of 10 “horses”, and also, for the first time among European cars, an electric starter. Citroën "A" could reach a maximum speed of 60 km per hour and had a fairly spacious interior. At the same time, already in the “base” the car was equipped with headlights, a horn and a spare wheel. The same elements were available only as options for cars of other brands. The Andre plant produced 100 copies of the model daily. Citroen was the first among European manufacturers to begin mass production of cars and make this vehicle not a luxury item, but a means of transportation. In parallel with this, the businessman, secretly from everyone, is studying the structure of such famous American cars like Studebaker, Buick and Nash, as well as various variants of mass production of cars. Just 4 years later, the number of Model A production increased to 300 units daily. At the same time, the company introduces a rather simple four-cylinder small car, the 5CV. This reliable "people's" car, adapted for rural roads, did not have front brakes, but had elliptical springs front and rear. A few years later, more advanced models appeared, such as B12 and B14.

Citroen's brilliant advertising moves

Once he learned about some English airplane pilot who could write various words in the sky with the help of turns leaving a white trail, Andre immediately had a brilliant idea. And then one day, letters four hundred meters in size appeared on the sky background, forming the five-kilometer inscription “Citroën”. Even though five minutes later there was no trace left of the inscription on which an incredible amount had been spent, but it had completed its task; only the lazy did not talk about the Citroën brand.

Andre’s most creative idea can be called the “Eiffel Tower on Fire” idea. Thanks to the 125 thousand light bulbs installed on the tower, all Parisians and visitors to the city could enjoy an incredible spectacle when the lights formed ten images that appeared in alternating periods, including, of course, the name “Citroën”.

Difficult period in the history of the brand

The financial crisis that broke out in the early 30s did not spare Andre’s “brainchild”. Nevertheless, despite the difficulties, the company manages to release such famous cars like the Citroën C4 and C6. The C6 model was equipped with a 6-cylinder engine and could accelerate to almost 100 km/h. In 1933, in less than six months, the entrepreneur rebuilt his factories located on the Javel embankment, and as a result, an automobile giant with an area of ​​55 thousand m² appeared on this site with a continuous production line producing a thousand copies of the brand’s cars every day.

The weak point in Citroen's activities was that his ideas were always ahead of his financial capabilities, and therefore he was always in large debts. This turned against him in 1934, when lenders stopped giving him new loans, and the decreased demand for cars did not allow him to get out of this situation with his own funds. After a number of unsuccessful attempts to find other investors, the entrepreneur had to declare himself bankrupt. Most of the company's shares in the amount of 60 percent went to the Michelin concern. Soon after this, the company began producing a truly revolutionary car at that time called the 7CV Traction Avant, which had a monocoque body, a front-wheel drive system and an independent torsion bar suspension.

But Andre was not destined to see the success of this car with his own eyes; in the early spring of 1935, Citroen passed away. The official reason for his departure was stomach cancer, but the financial difficulties that befell him, as well as the death of his daughter, also played an important role in his early death.

The company after the death of its founder

Released in 1934, the new product with an innovative design remained at the pinnacle of technological progress for a long time, thanks to which its production continued for another 12 years. It was thanks to the 7CV Traction Avant that the brand managed to recover relatively quickly after the end of the crisis. But before this period of growth, the company experienced many difficulties: the dismissal of 8 thousand workers, the closure of an Italian assembly plant, etc.

During the war, the company worked mainly for the needs of the army, but also produced in small quantities the already delivered 7CV Traction Avant model. By the beginning of 1946, the automaker produced 9.32 thousand copies of the model, and a year later this number increased to 24.44 thousand units. Citroën was gradually reborn. The management still continues to support the established tradition of experimentation. The result of this aspiration was the rebuilt plant in Levallois, where separate work areas were created for the assembly of motors. A little later, the same enterprise begins to produce another legendary model, Traction Avant 2CV. People nicknamed this long-lived man “Duck Tail.” Although the appearance of the model was not particularly attractive, and the engine was not particularly powerful, the car had another very important advantage - low cost. The model, without any significant changes in design, rolled off the assembly line for 42 years.

In 1955, Citroën surprises again automotive world presented at the Paris Auto Show by the DS19 model. Nicknamed “Goddess,” the new product with ideal aerodynamics created a real sensation not only with its futuristic appearance, but also with a number of technological innovations used to create it. The car stood out as it gradually descended towards front bumper long flat hood and streamlined back with closed rear wheels. To create parts, the developers used alloys of plastic and aluminum, and also equipped the model with disc brakes, power steering and, most importantly, hydropneumatic suspension, which not only made it possible to increase ground clearance, but also provided better handling and comfort. The DS19 was powered by a 4-cylinder 75-horsepower engine, which accelerated the model to 150 km/h.

A year later, the company produced model 1019, the cost of which was lower than that of the DS19, and in 1958 the ID19 station wagon, created on the basis of the chassis from the DS19, was released, equipped with air conditioning and a cordless telephone.

During the sixties, the company continued to actively develop, enter into contracts, open production facilities in other countries and launch production of new models. For example, the Ami6 model was released during this period.

In the seventies, the company again found itself in a difficult situation. The extravagance for which the brand was so famous ceased to bring in much income. And by the middle of the decade, due to the outbreak of the oil crisis, the original, but characterized by high fuel consumption, Citroën cars ceased to be sold. In order to prevent bankruptcy, the company decided to enter into an alliance with Peugeot in 1974. Although this merger helped save Citroën, the company completely lost its individuality. The first “brainchild” of the union of the two companies was the Visa model, which was based on the Citroën 104 model. Under the hood of the new product was a 0.65 liter 2-cylinder engine supplemented with an air cooling system. To take into account the interests of its companion, Citroën also released a variation of the Visa, equipped with the created by Peugeot a more powerful 1.1 liter 4-cylinder unit.

In the 80s, the famous company logo changed - blue and yellow colors were replaced by white and red. During this period, Citroën was actively engaged in improving production, investing huge amounts of money in the development of the concern. The investment is worth it. In 1982, a new mid-size model BX was released, on which it was first installed diesel engine XUD. In 1983, all management at the company's factories was computerized. Three years later, the concern begins to produce small AX class cars. And in 1989, the automotive world happily welcomed the XM model, distinguished by its elegant exterior and excellent driving performance.

By the early nineties, the fashion for original cars reappeared and Citroën, as one of the founders of extravagant and original design, did not miss the opportunity to prove himself. This is how the ZX model appeared, with which the company officially returned to motorsport. In this decade, Citroën produced models such as Xantia, Saxo, Xsara, Evasion, as well as Xsara Picasso.

In 1997, the position of general director of the concern began to be occupied by Jean-Martin Foltz, who decided to make the two brands represented by the concern as different from each other as possible. This decision was decisive for Citroën and marked the beginning of the revival of the legendary brand.

Citroën in the new century

The new millennium begins with a triumph for Citroën - the C5 model successfully debuts at the Paris Motor Show. The new product was offered in station wagon and hatchback body styles, and was also equipped with an innovative Hydractive III hydraulic suspension, capable of operating in two modes (Sport and Comfort). The engine range of the model included a 210-horsepower 3-liter V6 gasoline unit and a 2.2-liter diesel engine developing a power of 136 horsepower. It was with the release of this car that the concern returned to the alphanumeric designation of models.

The warranty period is increased to 2 years. In addition, for the first time within the PSA concern, a new robotic transmission SensoDrive. The innovation was applied to the C3 model, equipped with a 1.6-liter 16V engine.

In 2006, the C4 Picasso line appeared, the first-born of which, the seven-seater C4 Picasso model, distinguished by its original appearance and spacious trunk, debuted at the Paris Auto Show. Later, based on this model, the Peugeot 307 was created, as well as a five-seat variation of the C4 Picasso. In 2007, a crossover appeared in the Citroën model range for the first time. The new product, called the C-Crosser, is equipped with a 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine producing 156 horsepower. The crossover is also offered with a 170-horsepower 2.4-liter gasoline engine. The company also began to actively develop the DS line, which includes premium cars.

1910

1919

Creativity. Technologies. Courage. In 1919, Andre Citroen founded the brand of the same name...

1919

Citroën "Model A" car

The Type A, with a 1327 cc four-cylinder engine and a top speed of 65 km/h, goes on sale.

1920

1920

Having been on the market for just one year, Citroen manages to sell 10,000 cars

20 February 1921

Always one step ahead. On February 20, 1921, Citroen introduces a series of enamel road signs for French roads.

12 July 1921

Citroen presents the 2nd car in the model range: B2. Compared to Type A, this is a more powerful and technologically advanced car.

01 October 1922

Paris Motor Show: world presentation of Citroen 5HP. New compact car developed on the basis of Type A.

12 October 1922

Bold creativity... For the first time, in honor of the opening of the 7th Paris Motor Show, an airplane writes the brand name in the sky. This is Paris! It's Citroen!

17 December 1922

To highlight the quality of his tracked vehicles, launched in 1922, Andre Citroen decided to send them across the Sahara. Georges-Marie Haardt and Louis Audouin-Dubreuil set off on the Touggourt - Timbuktu - Touggourt expedition, which lasted from December 17, 1922 to March 7, 1923.

1924

In 1924, Citroen car production reached 50,000 cars per year.

01 October 1924

Citroen introduces the B10, the first car with an all-metal body, replacing models with metal and wood bodywork.

28 October 1924

Expedition "Black Raid" in Africa

Encouraged by the success of the expedition to the Sahara two years earlier, Citroen equipped the Black Raid expedition, which was to cross the entire African continent from Colomb-Béchard to Cape Town, from October 28, 1924 to June 26, 1925.

1925

Official statistics on the number of cars per capita

In 1926, about a third of the cars on the roads in France were Citroens.

28 September 1926

Citroen presents the B14 model - a car for the mass consumer, combining luxury features. It was one of the most popular cars during the interwar period. Citroen also introduces the B15 - the first French commercial vehicle with a closed cabin.

1926

Citroen publishes the first repair manual with spare parts catalog for the dealer network.

1926

By this time, Citroen employs 31,000 workers and produces 400 cars a day - a record production capacity in Europe.

21 May 1927

Charles Lindbergh at the Citroen factory in 1927

Charles Lindbergh, who made the first transatlantic flight, visits the Citroen factory

01 October 1928

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents two new models, the C4 and the C6.

1929

Launch of Citroen C6 1 production in 1929

Launch of France's first high-speed truck C61. Payload: 1800 kg, 6-cylinder engine, 42 hp. Steel closed cabin

16 March 1929

Grand opening of the legendary Marbeuf garage. An architectural masterpiece that will pave the way for other iconic locations of the brand.

01 October 1929

Demonstrating once again his pioneering spirit, Andre Citroën opens the doors of his Quai Javel factory to the public on the occasion of the opening of the Paris Motor Show

1930

04 April 1931

"Yellow Raid" in Asia

Five years after the Black Raid, the Yellow Raid expedition is organized. This time, Citroen, without recognizing any, intends to cross the Asian continent from Beirut to Beijing.

October 1931

Andre Citroen returns from the United States with new ideas, one of which involves the use of an engine with elastic suspension - an idea that contributed to the modernization of cars.
This innovative technology reduces vibration from the engine by installing rubber blocks between the engine and chassis.

April 1932

Engine with elastic suspension Citroen

The C4 G and C6 G cars receive an engine with elastic suspension, called MFP (Moteur Floating Power). Citroen is once again outperforming its European competitors. Now all Citroen cars, without exception, are equipped with an engine on an elastic suspension.

October 1932

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents the "Rosalie" series cars: 8CV, 10CV and 15CV. The first two models replaced the C4 car, and the third, with a six-cylinder engine, replaced the C6.
In 1931, thanks to a series of new speed records at the Linas-Montlhéry circuit, all three models quickly earned the nickname "Rosalie".

27 July 1933

Autodrome Montlhéry 300,000 km. 134 days. average speed 93 km/h. This is a new world record set by the Petite Rosalie (8CV).

18 April 1934

Innovation. Safety. Comfort. Efficiency. Citroen presents a fundamentally new car model "Type 7A", which has the following distinctive features: front wheel drive, monoblock steel body without frame, hydraulic brakes on four wheels, independent suspension with a torsion bar, an elastically suspended engine with an overhead valve mechanism and removable cylinder liners...

01 October 1934

New Traction model at the Paris Motor Show: 11. Based on the body of the Model 7, widened by 14 cm and lengthened by 20 cm. This model has a 46 hp engine. and a 3-speed gearbox, reaching speeds of up to 106 km/h.

12 December 1934

The release of the Traction Avant does not solve the company's serious financial difficulties and the company is unable to meet its financial obligations. At that time, Citroen was the leading national and European car manufacturer and the second largest in the world. At the request of the government, Michelin, the main creditor, writes off the company's debts and puts Citroen back on its feet. Citroen continues to operate under the control of Michelin.

03 July 1935

As a result of a serious illness, Andre Citroen died. Pierre Boulanger becomes the company's CEO.

1936

Pierre Boulanger launches a project for a popular small car, the future 2CV. Its technical characteristics say: “A vehicle designed to transport four people and 50 kg of potatoes, reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h, with a consumption of 3 liters of gasoline per 100 km, which should provide a comfortable ride.”

October 1936

Citroen presents the 11 MI at the Paris Motor Show with diesel engine. This is the world's first passenger production model with a diesel engine.

12 January 1938

First road tests of the TPV (compact car) prototype that would become the famous 2CV.

01 October 1938

Citroën traction avant 15 CV

The Traction Avant family expands with the introduction of the 15-Six. Spacious, comfortable, fast car (135 km/h), easy to drive. Thanks to its excellent road holding, the 15-Six quickly earns the title "queen of the road."

April 1939

Citroen launches the TUB, a B Series commercial vehicle with a modern design, extended cab and sliding side loading door.

23 August 1939

The French testing department has registered the 2CV and is now ready for its market debut.

1940

03 June 1940

The Citroen plant on the Quai Javel comes under bombardment. Factory employees dismantle and hide intact 2CV prototypes. Due to the occupation, production practically stops.

1941

Due to the fuel shortage, Citroën decides not to suffer losses and offers new alternatives to provide mobility to its customers.

1942

1942

Second bombing of the Javel Quai plant, production facilities were seriously damaged.

06 November 1944

The first Citroen truck

After taking appropriate measures, Citroën produces its first truck at the Quai Javel plant a year after the bombing.

1945

The plant on the Javel embankment has been restored. Citroën manages to respond quickly to increasing demands. Production reaches 13.4% of its pre-war level.

1946

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE

In France, the recovery process is in full swing. Half of the cars Citroën produces are commercial vehicles.

01 October 1946

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroën is presenting three new models: the 11 B, known as the "11 normale" (standard model), the 11 BL known as the "11 Légère" (lightweight model) and the 15-sixG.

June 1947

First presentation of the Type H car. Company President Pierre Boulanger announces the technical characteristics: a single-volume car with front-wheel drive, which will adapt the functions of the four-cylinder Traction Avant with enhanced rear suspension. The main goal is to maximize the use of parts from other company cars.

07 October 1948

Citroen 2CV presentation

Finally, the 2CV model is presented to the public and the President of the Republic, Vincent Auriol, at the Paris Motor Show. This model surprises with its unusual appearance and expresses a new philosophy personal transport. It will be released in various modifications with a circulation of more than 5 million copies until July 27, 1990.

October 1949

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroën presents the Type HZ, a small van with payload 850 kg, capable of speeds up to 88 km/h.

1950

October 1950

Inspired by the success of the 2CV model, the waiting list for which was 6 years in advance, Citroen is presenting to the public a modification of the van during the Paris Motor Show: a payload of 250 kg, a 375 cm3 engine with a maximum speed of 60 km/h and a fuel consumption of 5 liters per 100 km .

11 November 1950

Pierre Boulanger, CEO of Citroen (born March 10, 1885), has died at the age of 65.

1951

The Citroen 15 CV becomes the official car of the French authorities.

March 1951

Start of production of 2CV van; The production of this car will total more than 1.2 million copies in the period until March 1978.

June 1952

To meet the needs of its customers, Citroen is extending the rear of the Tractions Avant, allowing it to double the boot capacity.

1953

Commercial vehicle Citroen Type 55

The Type 55 commercial vehicle replaces the Type 45. Gasoline and diesel engines, 76 hp, payload 5,000 kg at gross weight car 9,300 kg. The "55 UADI" bus with a 6-cylinder diesel engine and 29 seats is also produced.

May 1954

Citroen 15 Six

The 15-Six model is equipped with a hydropneumatic suspension with a fixed height at the rear. A real technical breakthrough from the Citroen design bureau.

20 July 1955

End of production of the 15-Six after a 23-year career.

06 October 1955

Citroen DS at the Paris Motor Show

Technical and aesthetic revolution at the Paris Motor Show. Citroen presents the DS, a car that looks like it came straight out of the pages of a science fiction novel. Original design, avant-garde interior trim, hydropneumatic suspension and fully hydraulic steering. 750 cars sold in just 45 minutes, 12,000 the next day and 80,000 before the showroom closed.

1955

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (1956)

The appearance of the ID 19 model in the lineup. Available in the “Standard” version (63 hp, 4,000 rpm and 130 km/h) and the “Lux” version (66 hp, 4,500 rpm and 135 km/h).

May 1957

The appearance of the ID 19 model in the lineup. Available in the “Standard” version (63 hp, 4,000 rpm and 130 km/h) and the “Lux” version (66 hp, 4,500 rpm and 135 km/h).

July 1957

Complete production of the Traction Avant after production of more than 750,000 units.

March 1958

Presentation of the 2CV 4x4, also known as the 2CV Sahara. This all-wheel drive vehicle with two 425 cm3 engines has increased cross-country ability: it is capable of climbing sandy slopes with a slope of more than 40% with a full load.

09 October 1958

In honor of the company's founder, the Javel embankment is named the Andre Citroen embankment.

1959

Pioneer. Citroen receives an invitation to exhibit the body of the DS car in the international exhibition of design art, chaired by the architect Giovanni Gio Ponti, at the Triennale Museum in Milan.

1959

Victory of ID 19 at the Monte Carlo Rally with the crew of Colteloni-Alexandre-Derosiers. As a result, Citroen decides to participate in various automobile competitions.

1960

01 October 1960

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents the DS 19 convertible with bodywork by Henri Chapron. This car offers the widest range of personalization options: 76 color combinations, 13 exterior colors and 11 shades of leather upholstery!

1960

Opening of a plant in the suburbs of Rennes (Brittany). With state-of-the-art equipment and automation, the plant is designed to produce 1,200 vehicles per day. This is the first Citroen plant with a full assembly cycle.

24 April 1961

Launch of Ami 6 on the same day throughout Europe. The Ami 6 completed the model range; its main differences were the pronounced body lines and the rear concave glass.

22 August 1962

General de Gaulle survives an attempt on his life at Petit Clamart near Paris. Despite the riddled wheels, presidential car The Citroen DS continued to drive without further damage.

October 1962

In October, at the Paris Motor Show, which takes place for the first time at the Porte de Versailles exhibition center, Citroen presents the updated DS 19. It features a new front end design and new bumpers, which have been developed to improve aerodynamic properties and performance (vehicle speed). reaches 160 km/h).

1963

Creation sports division Citroen under the leadership of René Cotton.

07 February 1964

Legendary Citroen designer Flaminio Bertoni passes away. He was at the origins of the creation of the legendary DS 19 and Ami 6.

September 1964

Citroen presents the DS 19 Pallas, a sophisticated car that pays great attention to interior design and finishing.

October 1964

Citroen Ami 6 station wagon

Parisian car showroom: presentation of the Ami 6 station wagon and new option for all Citroen cars - seat belts.

December 1964

The 2CV gets new front hinged doors.

September 1965

New DS 21 is introduced. More powerful and equipped with a new engine with a 5-bearing crankshaft, the DS 21 is also equipped with automatic headlight leveling to compensate for dynamic variations in vehicle height above the road surface.

January 1965

Last rally for the Citroen DS driven by the “Flying Finn” Pauli Toivonen ends with victory in Monte Carlo.

July 1967

Between the 2CV and Ami 6 versions, the Dyane car is added to the Citroen range. This vehicle uses proven chassis 2CV models (425 cm3 two-cylinder engine, 4-speed gearbox, speed up to 100 km/h and consumption 4.9 liters/100 km) and absolutely new body. Thanks to the rear tailgate and folding rear seats This car is a sedan with all the advantages of a station wagon.

September 1967

All DS and ID models received an updated design (fenders, hood, bumper, lower fairing, as well as an optical system of four headlights, two of which rotate in the direction of travel).

January 1968

The Dyane 6 debuts and features more powerful engine compared to the Ami model (602 cm3, 110 km/h and consumption 6.1 liters/100 km).

May 1968

With the launch of the Méhari, Citroen is expanding its family of small two-cylinder cars. An original, versatile car all-terrain. The use of a plastic body eliminates the risk of corrosion and increases resistance to minor impacts.

March 1969

The Ami 8 replaces the Ami 6. This car features a new body design that is simplified and sleeker, providing improved visibility.

September 1969

Another victory over its competitors, the DS 21 marks the first use of an injection system with electronically controlled on French production cars. (12 hp, 188 km/h for 10 liters/100 km).

07 October 1969

Production of the millionth DS car - the DS 21 model with a gold-colored body.

1970

January 1970

Limited edition of 267 pieces. Body based on the Ami 8 model. 2-door 4-seater coupe. Hydropneumatic suspension. Single-rotor piston engine volume 995 cm3 and 4-speed gearbox. The M35 prototype is a true laboratory on wheels. Citroen offers it to customers who want to test it, with a mileage of over 30,000 km/year.

March 1970

Citroen SM

Born out of an agreement with Maserati in 1968, the sporty and respectable Citroen SM touring car inherits all the development expertise of the DS all-wheel drive and hydraulic suspension. It is equipped with a Maserati six-cylinder V-engine, a five-speed gearbox and a Diravi electric power steering system. Its dynamic qualities captivate connoisseurs not only in France and Europe, but also in the United States of America.

October 1970

Situated between the Ami 8 and DS in Citroen's lineup, the GS unveiled at the Paris Motor Show features a new body that will remain the world's most aerodynamic for years to come. It also features a flat-four engine with air cooled and hydropneumatic suspension.

1970

With the Paris-Persepolis-Paris Rally, Citroen is giving 1,300 young people from different walks of life an exciting 13,800 km journey in a 2CV, Dyane or Méhari, from the outskirts of Paris to southern Iran.

1970

Citroen GS wins Car of the Year in 1971

The GS receives the title of Car of the Year.

April 1971

First participation in competitions, first victory. We are talking about the Citroen SM at the Morocco rally.

September 1972

The DS 23 with carburetor and electronically controlled injection system replaces the DS 21. It is equipped with a new 2347 cm3 engine (speed up to 188 km/h and consumption 12 liters/100 km).

February 1973

Super Ami = Ami body + 4-cylinder GS engine.

1974

Merger of Citroen and Peugeot

Michelin and the Peugeot group decide to merge Citroen and Peugeot to create a large international company.

March 1974

Launch of the C35. Commercial vehicle with a payload of 1,885 kg built jointly with Fiat.

October 1974

Citroen CX

Citroen CX presented at the Paris Motor Show. Less revolutionary than its predecessor, the DS, which it replaced, the CX combines the latest technical advances companies. The best proof of this is the transversely mounted engine/gearbox unit at the front, fixed-height hydropneumatic suspension, single-blade wiper, concave taillights and futuristic instrument panel.

January 1975

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (1975)

The CX receives the Car of the Year, Safety Award and Style Award.

24 April 1975

Last car DS leaves the assembly line of the Javel factory. 1,330 755th and final example is the DS 23 Pallas Bleu Delta with electronically controlled injection.

January 1976

First presentation universal car CX.

01 October 1976

The first presentation of the Citroen LN takes place at the Paris Motor Show. The smallest engine in the range with the smallest body (based on the Peugeot 104 coupe). 602 cm3 air-cooled two-cylinder engine, 32 hp, 4-speed gearbox, speed up to 120 km/h and consumption of 5.9 liters/100 km.

1976

During car tour in Senegal, CX 2400 cars occupy the first 5 places

April 1977

Presentation of the special limited edition "Dyane Caban" of 1,500 pieces.

May 1977

CX 2400 GTI: electronically controlled injection system, 2,347 cm3 engine, 128 hp, top speed 189 km/h and consumption 8.1 liters/100 km.

February 1978

The appearance of the CX Prestige model, which features a body lengthened by 25 cm.

March 1978

The Acadiane, a new small commercial vehicle based on the Dyane model, replaces the 2CV vans. Engine volume 602 cm3, 31 hp. and speed up to 100 km/h.

October 1978

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents two new products: the LNA model, which replaced the LN, and the Visa model. These new cars are equipped with AEI (Electronic Ignition) system - a world first this system installed on production cars.

May 1979

All-wheel drive Mehari model

Launch of the Méhari 4x4 model. This model is equipped with a 7-speed gearbox (4 normal and 3 transfer) and gear reverse with gearbox.

1980

October 1980

The 2CV model gets a two-tone body and round headlights with the introduction of the 2CV Charleston. Originally intended to be a limited edition of 8,000 units, the 2CV Charleston was a resounding success, leading to the model's launch into series production in 1981.

March 1981

The Visa model is being replaced by the Visa II model with a new body and a more economical engine.

May 1981

Citroen launches the new C25 commercial vehicle, co-produced with Peugeot and Fiat.

July 1982

Occupying the top position of the Visa model range, the Visa GT replaces the Visa II Super X. It is equipped with a 1,360 cm3 engine with 80 hp, a speed of up to 168 km/h and a consumption of 5.6 liters/100 km.

September 1982

Presentation of the BX production model, designed to win new customers. This is a 5-door and 5-seat hatchback, which occupies a place in the model range between the GSA and CX. It comes with a choice of 3 engines: 1,360 cc and 62 hp with 4-speed gearbox, 1,360 cc and 72 hp with 5-speed gearbox and 1,580 cc and 90 hp with 5-speed gearbox transmission

February 1983

Launch of the Visa convertible: flexible roof rear window You can fold it completely or just the front part.

July 1983

From this date onwards, all production Citroen vehicles are equipped with a laminated windscreen.

1983

Together with Michelin, Citroen is launching a women's racing series: 11 finalists have been selected from 6,000 candidates. 6 tests were carried out and only 2 of the finalists became factory testers.

September 1984

Launch of the BX 19 GT, equipped with an on-board computer and a 1,905 cm3 (185 km/h) engine.

October 1984

Citroen CX 25 GTi Turbo

CX 25 GTi Turbo: offers the best performance in its category. 2,500 cm3 engine with electronically controlled injection system and turbocharger, 168 hp, speed up to 220 km/h.

October 1984

The C15 E (petrol engine) and C15 D (diesel engine) are two small commercial vehicles with a payload of 570 kg, based on the Visa model.

January 1985

Launch of the Visa GTi model. 1,580 cm3 engine with electronically controlled injection system, 105 hp. and a 5-speed gearbox allows the car to reach speeds of up to 188 km/h.

March 1985

October 1986

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At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents the AX model. 3-door hatchback with front-wheel drive and drag coefficient of 0.31. It is equipped with a completely new transversely vertically mounted transmission.

1987

Citroen AX enters the small market sports cars first in March with the AX Sport model and then in October with the AX GT model. This model takes part in the Moroccan Rally and the Monte Carlo Rally.

January 1987

From now on, Citroen provides a 5-year anti-corrosion guarantee on all models.

July 1987

Presentation of the new BX 19 GTi with the first French 16-valve engine (4 cylinders, volume 1,905 cm3, 164 hp, top speed 218 km/h).

July 1988

Operation Dragon

Operation Dragon. 140 young drivers from all over Europe are driving a Citroen AX over 4,500 km across China between Shenzhen and Beijing.

October 1988

At the Paris International Automobile Exhibition, Citroen presents the Activa model. It is an experimental design that has served as the basis for development projects such as the development of all-wheel drive and electronically controlled suspension.

December 1988

The AX Sport Turbo takes 7 podiums out of 10 in the French Super Manufacturers' Championship.

February 1989

Two new all-wheel drive BX models have arrived in dealerships: BX 4x4 and BX 4x4 Evasion. Their all-wheel drive includes the following 3 differentials: front, center locking and rear limited slip.

23 May 1989

Citroen adds a new model to its range: the Xm. This production liftback, designed by Bertone, features a world's first suspension that combines electronic control with the power and flexibility of hydraulics. The moment of birth of the Hydractive suspension.

1990

1990

Citroen XM wins Car of the Year title

The Xm wins Car of the Year and 14 international awards.

27 July 1990

After production of 5,114,940 units, production of the 2CV was officially stopped at the Mangualdi plant (Portugal). The car quickly became popular with collectors.

October 1990

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen once again demonstrates its technological achievements. The C15 and C25 electric cars sit next to a working prototype of the Activa 2, the real star of the showroom. The Activa 2 is powered by a 24-valve 3.0-litre V6 engine that produces 200 PS, a 4-speed automatic transmission, active cross steering and a 5-function screen.

17 January 1991

The ZX Rallye raid car driven by Ari Vatanen brings its 13th victory in the Paris-Tripoli-Dakar race (9,186 km)

March 1991

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (1991)

At the Geneva Motor Show, Citroen presents the ZX to the public. It will be launched as a "collection" of 4 models (Reflex, Avantage, Aura and Volcane), which sit between the AX and BX in the range. The ZX is the first European car to feature a sliding rear seat with a reclining backrest.

20 April 1992

The prototype electric car Citroen Citela attracts the main attention of visitors to the French pavilion at the World Exhibition in Seville.

29 September 1992

60 years after the Yellow Raid, the Pierre Lartigue/Michel Perin crew takes part in the 16,000 km Paris-Moscow-Beijing rally and wins first place in a Citroen ZX Rallye Raid.

01 March 1993

Start of sales of the Xantia model, a 5-door sedan, 4.44 m long, jointly produced by Citroen and Bertone. The Xantia model implements all the company's technological achievements not only to set new industry standards in comfortable driving, but also to equip the car with a powerful system passive safety(Hydractive 2)

21 September 1993

Production of the 2,000,000th AX at the Aulnay-sous-bois plant.

14 January 1994

First presentation of the Citroen Jumper on the occasion of the opening of the commercial vehicle showroom in Geneva. A product of collaboration with Peugeot and Fiat, the Citroen Jumper is extremely attractive: appearance, new gasoline and diesel engines, new gearboxes.

March 1994

Presentation of the Citroen Evasion at the Geneva Motor Show. It combines all the qualities of an executive sedan in terms of handling, comfort, road behavior and safety.

October 1994

The Xantia Activa, unveiled at the Paris Motor Show, is the world's first car that can change its ride height thanks to its SC.CAR active roll control system. It is also equipped with additional devices such as a driver's airbag, electric rear windows and, finally, adjustable seat backrests.

February 1995

Production of the millionth ZX car at the plant in Aunet-sous-Bois (Aulnay).

15 September 1995

Transport exhibition. Citroen presents Jumpy, a commercial vehicle, compact and versatile (payload 815 kg and useful volume 4 m3).

November 1995

The Citroen AX Electrique makes its debut on the market. Power: 20 kW. Maximum speed: 91 km/h. Autonomy: 75 km within city limits. Available in 3-door/4-seater hatchback and 2-seater commercial vehicle versions.

02 November 1995

1996

The Saxo Cup replaces the Coupe AX.

1996

In 8 months, the plant in Aus-sous-Bois (Aulney) produced 100,000 Saxo vehicles.

July 1996

Commercial sale of the Citroen Berlingo. Although the Berlingo's styling is more sedan-like than commercial vehicle, it has a useful volume of 3m3 with a payload of 800kg.

September 1996

Minivan Citroen Berlingo

The first appearance of the Berlingo minivan, practical and convenient, the start of sales of which is scheduled for early 1997.

22 August 1997

International PR company intended for young Europeans from 18 to 35 years old: Rally in a Citroen Berlingo along the route Paris-Samarkand-Moscow.

11 September 1997

The Citroen Xsara (4.17m) joins the range, slotting between the Saxo (3.72m) and Xantia (4.52m). A symbol of the new generation and occupying the top position of the model range, the Xsara demonstrates the company's achievements as a leader in the fields of comfort, safety and road behavior.

06 February 1998

At the exhibition retro cars Citroen displays three unique pre-war 2CV models built to 1939 certification.

25 March 1998

The 500,000th Saxo car rolls off the assembly line under the patronage of sculptor Cesar.

October 1998

Citroen C3 "Lumière" concept car

Citroen looks to the future with the C3 Lumière concept car, which serves as a prototype for the new model. It features an innovative and versatile architecture in terms of functionality and internal layout.

October 1998

Centenary of the Paris Motor Show. Citroen presents the Xsara Picasso to the public - a compact car that combines the features of a single-volume and hatchback with an original and innovative design.

1998

1 million de Citroën Xantia & Citroën Saxo products

The millionth Xantia car is being produced at the Rennes-la-Janais plant, and the millionth Saxo car is being produced at the Aulnay-sous-bois plant.

11 March 1999

Citroen C6 "Lignage" concept car

"The art of traveling with Citroen" or the presentation of the C6 Lignage at the Geneva Motor Show. The C6 Lignage illustrates the architectural and design capabilities of the company's future executive model. At the same Citroen stand, the visitor can also linger at the exhibition sample of the “Pluriel”, an original model that does not fit into any traditional segment.

2000

1999

Construction of the Citroen Museum in Auney-sous-Bois (Aulnay). This building, with an area of ​​6,700 m2, was built with the aim of preserving the Citroen car models produced since the founding of the company and preserved to this day. Its opening is scheduled for November 28, 2001.

02 March 2000

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (2000)

Presentation of the Citroen C3 Pluriel at the Geneva Motor Show.

30 September 2000

Status, power, dynamism, endurance. Citroen presents the C5 at the Paris Motor Show. To resolve differences between pedestrians and cyclists, the company is also introducing the Osmose concept car, intended primarily for the city. The car of the future, communicative and open. It will then be exhibited at the Center Georges Pompidou.

2001

The young hope of Citroen, Sebastien Loeb and his co-driver Daniel Helena won the French Championship in the Xsara KitCar. The same crew became the world junior rally champion driving a Saxo Super 1600.

September 2001

At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Citroen presents the C3 and introduces the public to the C-Crosser concept car: 3 front seats, movable driver's seat(has three positions: left, center and right) with electronic control ("x-by-wire" technology), no steering column. This is a versatile car that combines a sense of adventure, a desire for freedom and comfort.

07 March 2002

At the Geneva Motor Show, Citroen presents the C8, a car for traveling with family or friends, where everything is thought out down to the smallest detail.

25 August 2002

First world victory of Loeb and Helena

At the World Rally Championship in Germany, the young Loeb/Elena crew won their first victory.

28 September 2002

C-Airdream is the company's new concept car. This 2+2 coupe, presented at the Paris International Motor Show, is an opportunity for the company to continue its design developments.

06 March 2003

Geneva Motor Show, presentation of the C2 Citroen Sport concept car. A joint development between the Concept Cars department and Citroen Sport.

08 September 2003

In Frankfurt, Citroen confirms its commitment with the presentation of the C2 production car, a fine example of a small compact 3-door sedan with seating for 4 people. Another star of the German showroom is the C-Airlounge concept car, which once again demonstrates the company's creativity.

08 November 2003

After 13 podium finishes, Citroen wins the 2003 World Rally Championship title. Sebastien Loeb is second in the driver standings.

2004

Production of the millionth Xsara Picasso.

25 September 2004

At the Paris International Motor Show, Citroen is presenting new products: the C4 hatchback and coupe, the new C5 sedan and C5 station wagon, as well as the C3 with a Stop&Start system designed to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

17 October 2004

Sebastien Loeb - world rally champion

At the end of the Corsica rally and without waiting for the end of the championship, Citroen won its second world title in the constructors' championship. Sebastien Loeb, finishing the race in second place, receives his first world rally champion title.

October 2005

First world presentation of the C-Sportlounge concept car at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

08 October 2005

50th anniversary of the DS model. 1,600 DS cars take part in a parade in Paris to celebrate the birthday of the famous Citroen birthday boy.

18 February 2006

CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (2006)

Citroen creates the C-Triomphe concept car especially for China

06 September 2006

At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents a new concept car that combines passion and practicality. The C-Métisse showcases new options designed exclusively for driving pleasure.

30 September 2006

Launch of the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso, which is positioned in the model range above the Xsara Picasso.

March 2007

At the Geneva Motor Show, Citroen is presenting the C-Crosser, which is scheduled to be launched in July. The company's first SUV, designed for 5 + 2 seats, is distinguished by high cross-country ability due to its dimensions and all-wheel drive.

September 27, 2007

The company is completing its work on preparing the exhibition hall at 42 Champs Elysees. The grand opening of the exhibition hall C_42. In 6 months, this iconic place receives more than 1 million visitors.

18 October 2007

At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Citroen is unveiling the C5 Airscape concept, a large convertible sedan that heralds the arrival of a new C5 in the near future.

15 January 2008

The company presents the new Citroen C5 at the Brussels Motor Show. The designers began their work from scratch to create a new generation car.

08 July 2008

The Picasso family welcomes Citroen's little brother, the C3 Picasso, an innovative car that boasts bold styling, innovative architecture and ingenuity.

10 September 2008

In the company's family car category, next to the Berlingo Multispace, the Citroen Némo Combi appears. Among other things, it is characterized by its compact external dimensions (3.96 m in length) and spacious interior

October 2008

The motto of the Citroen exhibition stand at the International Salon in Paris 2008 is Innovation, environmental friendliness and creativity. In total, no less than 34 cars are on display, 11 new models and 8 concept cars. Of note are the GTbyCitroen, 2CV Hermes, C-Cactus and Hypnos concept cars, as well as the Citroen C3 Pluriel Charleston, a nod to history.

A three-bay Citroen C Quatre on display at the Shanghai Auto Show

Citroen is expanding its range in China and is introducing two new cars at the Shanghai International Auto Show: the C-Quatre sedan, and the new C5, which will be manufactured in Wuhan.

October 2009

Révolte (Revolt). With this telling name given to the latest concept car, Citroen shows how bold and progressive the company is. We are talking about a small, urban, ultra-elegant car that combines luxury with audacity.

October 2009

First showroom to present the new Citroen C3 in Frankfurt. Citroen is pursuing an ambitious goal: to update the bestseller, more than 2 million copies.

2010

14 January 2010

88th Brussels Motor Show. The company presents its new small car Citroen C-Zero. Citroen is thus expanding its presence in the small car segment by offering a 100% electric car to facilitate urban mobility.

18 January 2010

About a year after the presentation of the DS Inside (Geneva 2009), Citroen presents the DS3 and inaugurates the new DS line announced a year earlier. This line of special cars, created on the basis of the most radical solutions, complements the main model range.

02 March 2010

Citroen presents the Survolt at the Geneva Motor Show: breaking stereotypes and exciting the imagination. The company continues to move towards developing electric car models that are special and extraordinary, already brought to life with the release of the Revolte concept car a few months earlier.

18 April 2010

Metropolis concept car

On the eve of the opening of the showroom in Shanghai, Citroen presents the Métropolis model. The first concept car developed by the company's Shanghai design center, which was created in 2008. This concept car will be exhibited at the Beijing Auto Show in October, as well as in the French pavilion of the Shanghai World Expo.

23 August 2010

Citroen Racing engineers are working on the DS3 Sport Chic version to improve performance and performance. Redesigned engine, steering, chassis and new name - DS3 Racing.

15 September 2010

As in the new Citroen C5, launched in 2008, and C3, launched in 2009, new Citroen C4 demonstrates the company's innovations and technologies, which will be used in the future when updating the main model range.

30 September 2010

At the international exhibition in Paris, Citroen presents the Citroen Lacoste concept car, the car of the future. This is a new image of the car that counters the stereotype of "more and more" and encourages a measured approach to life.

01 March 2011

Launch of the Citroen DS4 model. This 2nd car of the DS line is different new form a lifted 4-door coupe that combines dynamism and versatility to create a new driving experience.

01 March 2011

Launch of Citroen Multicity

Citroen becomes the first car company to offer the Multicity service, which covers all modes of transport, making travel much easier: www.multicity.citroen.fr.

18 April 2011

After the Citroen DS3 and DS4 models, the Company presents the DS5 model in Shanghai. Slender and bold, the Citroen DS5 fits perfectly into the DS line, while distinguishing itself with its architecture, feel, style and sophistication.

27 July 2011

19th World Meeting of Friends of Citroen 2CV. On the anniversary of the end of production of the 2CV, more than 20,000 enthusiasts gather around 7,000 examples of this legendary car and its modifications (Ami 6 and 8, Dyane, Méhari...)

September 2011

64th Motor Show in Frankfurt. With the Tubik concept car, reminiscent of the Type H cars of the future, Citroen expresses its vision of tomorrow's mobility, where the journey itself is as important as the destination. The challenge that Tubik poses is to create a 9-seater car that, in its design and level of equipment, is not inferior to a modern sedan.

24 October 2011

In 70 Facebook communities, Citroen attracts more than a million fans around the world.

11 February 2012

80 years after the Yellow Raid expedition, Xavier and Antonin, two grounded engineers, set off on the first trip around the world on an electric Citroen C-Zéro. 8 months, 25,000 kilometers, 17 countries for 250 euros in electricity bills!

01 April 2012

Citroen is expanding its range with the launch of the C4 Aircross. In a fast-growing segment, with this new model Citroen aims to use a traditional design compact SUV, combined with innovative technologies and modern design.

13 April 2012

Citroen Numero 9

Numero 9 (Number 9) is the name of the company's latest development. This is a concept car, a new expression of the DS line, which again reprises a familiar prestige silhouette from automotive history: the estate car.

June 2012

Increasing the pace of company expansion: Citroen releases the Citroen C4 Sedan and C-Elysée models one after another. These two sedans, consisting of three sections, are intended in particular for fast-growing global markets, such as the Mediterranean countries, China and Russia.

October 2012

At the Paris International Motor Show, Citroen begins accepting orders for the new DS3 Cabrio. This convertible version of the Citroen DS3 combines all the advantages of the basic version (design, driving experience and space) with the driving pleasure of a convertible. The roof can be opened at speeds of up to 120 km/h.

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