The Citroën CX Celebrates 50 Years Of Automotive Excellence

Poissy, 10th September 2024 - The Citroën CX, launched in 1974 as the successor to the DS and Traction, remains an iconic symbol of the 70s and 80s. Known for its technical innovations, it stood out for 17 years and still captivates in 2024. Its sleek, low-slung, aerodynamic design is instantly recognisable. The CX was replaced by the XM in 1989, but estate versions continued production until 1991.

The CX’s Debut

Unveiled on 26th August 1974, just after Citroën merged with Peugeot, the CX made waves. Tested on a 3,400 km Raid Arctique, it impressed journalists and returned triumphantly to Paris. It grabbed attention at the Paris Motor Show in October that year, showcasing innovative features like hydropneumatic suspension, front-wheel drive, and high-pressure power-assisted brakes, all of which were synonymous with Citroën.

The CX also introduced a forward-tilted transverse engine for better weight distribution and an interior design focused on comfort and safety. Notable features included fingertip-accessible controls, a lunula-shaped instrument panel, retractable front seat belts, and a passive safety-focused interior. In January 1975, it won the prestigious "Car of the Year" award, outshining competitors like the VW Golf and Fiat 131.

Innovations Over the Years

The CX continued to evolve with new features:

• 1975: Air conditioning, electric windows, and rear fog lights
• 1976: Semi-automatic gearbox
• 1977: Petrol injection engine and alloy wheels
• 1978: Rear seat belts and electric locks
• 1980-85: From cruise control to ABS and heated mirrors, the CX was packed with innovations.

Key Models

• CX 2000: The original model, introduced at the 1974 Paris Motor Show with a 1.985-litre engine. It was followed by the CX 2200 and CX 2400.
• CX Prestige: Launched in 1976, aimed at political figures, this model was lengthened for more rear-seat space and boasted a luxurious finish.
• CX Diesel & Turbo Diesel: Citroën introduced a diesel version in 1975, followed by a turbocharged version in 1983. The CX 25 TRD Turbo 2, launched in 1987, reached a top speed of 195 km/h.
• CX Break, Family & Business: The estate model, released in 1976, offered a massive interior space of 2.03 m³ and quickly became the go-to for families and businesses. A commercial version, the CX Enterprise, debuted in 1984.
• CX GTI, Turbo & Turbo 2: In 1977, the GTI model was launched, powered by a 2.35-litre engine. The Turbo version, introduced in 1984, reached speeds of 220 km/h.

Motorsport Success

The CX entered the competitive scene in 1975, taking part in events like the Abidjan-Nice rally-raid, the Paris-Dakar, and the Rallye du Maroc. It performed impressively, demonstrating its durability and exceptional suspension in challenging conditions.

The Aulnay Plant

The CX was assembled at Citroën’s Aulnay plant, Europe’s most modern at the time. The plant produced the CX until July 1989, with estate models continuing until 1991 at Heuliez in Cerizay. Over 1 million CXs were produced during its 17-year run.

Advertising Campaigns

Advertising for the CX was handled by the famous RSCG agency. Campaigns ranged from sophisticated, featuring stars like Françoise Hardy and Grace Jones, to aggressive and provocative, particularly for the CX GTI Turbo, banned by French authorities for promoting its 220 km/h top speed.

The CX in Numbers

Between 1974 and 1991, 1,042,460 CXs were produced—913,375 saloons and 129,085 estate cars.

50th Anniversary Celebrations

The CX’s 50th anniversary will be celebrated at the Montigny-Le-Ganelon estate from 13th to 15th September. The event will feature exclusive driving sessions, including a special session at the La Ferté-Vidame test centre, where the CX was first tested.