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The Evolution of Citroen Cars in the UK: A Look Back Through History

Published Date: 2nd Mar 2023

Image of a Vintage Citroen Car

 

Citroën is a French automobile manufacturer that has been in operation for over a century. The company was founded in 1919 by André Citroen, a French engineer and entrepreneur who had previously worked for the Mors automobile company. Citroen's first car, the Type A, was produced in 1919 and was notable for its innovative design and use of mass-production techniques.

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, Citroen continued to push the boundaries of automotive engineering and design. The company introduced a number of groundbreaking models, including the Citroen 2CV, designed to be affordable and practical for the average person, and the Traction Avant, the first mass-produced car to feature front-wheel drive.

During World War II, Citroen's production focused on military vehicles, including the TUB and TUC trucks and the famous Citroën Half-Track. After the war, Citroen resumed civilian vehicle production and continued innovating in the automotive industry. In 1955, the company introduced the revolutionary Citroen DS, featuring advanced hydraulic systems, aerodynamic design, and suspension technology. The DS quickly became an icon of automotive design and was even featured in the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

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Citroën has a rich history in the UK motoring industry, and over the years, the company has continued to innovate and produce innovative cars that have captured the hearts of UK drivers. In the 1990s, Citroën introduced a range of new models, including the Citroen ZX, the Citroen Xantia, and the Citroen XM, all of which were designed to meet the needs of UK drivers.

The Citroen ZX, which was introduced in 1991, was a compact family car that quickly became popular in the UK. The car was available in a range of engine sizes and configurations, and it was known for its stylish design and practicality. The ZX was also the first Citroen car to feature airbags as standard, making it a safer option for families.

In 1993, Citroen introduced the Citroen Xantia, which was designed to compete with other mid-size family cars such as the Ford Mondeo and the Vauxhall Vectra. The Xantia was known for its smooth ride and advanced suspension system, which used a hydropneumatic system to deliver a comfortable ride even on rough roads.

In 1994, Citroen introduced the Citroen XM, a luxury car designed to compete with other high-end models such as the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The XM was known for its advanced suspension system, which used an active system that adjusted the ride height based on driving conditions.

Throughout the 2000s, Citroen continued to produce a range of innovative cars, including the Citroen C3, the Citroen C4, and the Citroen C5. The Citroen C3, introduced in 2002, was a supermini car designed to be practical and economical, making it a popular choice for UK drivers.

In 2004, Citroen introduced the Citroen C4, a mid-size family car known for its distinctive design and innovative features. The C4 was available in various engine sizes and configurations, including a diesel-electric hybrid version introduced in 2010.

In 2008, Citroen introduced the Citroen C5, a large family car designed to compete with other models such as the Ford Mondeo and the Volkswagen Passat. The C5 was known for its comfortable ride and advanced suspension system, which used a hydropneumatic system similar to the one used in the Citroën DS.

In recent years, Citroen has continued to innovate and produce new models that meet the changing needs of UK drivers. In 2017, the company introduced the Citroën C3 Aircross, a compact SUV designed to be practical and versatile. The C3 Aircross was known for its distinctive design and advanced technology, which included a range of driver assistance features.

Image of a New Citroen Car WheelIn 2020, Citroen introduced the all-electric Citroen ë-C4, a compact hatchback designed to be environmentally friendly and economical. The ë-C4 was the first electric car produced by Citroen, and it featured a range of advanced features, including regenerative braking and a range of driving modes.

Today, Citroen remains a popular brand in the UK motoring industry, with a wide range of models available to suit the needs of all drivers. The company continues to focus on innovation and is committed to developing new technologies and features that make driving safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable for UK drivers.

If you're looking for a car that combines style, innovation, and practicality, then Citroen is definitely worth considering. With a range of models available to suit all needs and budgets, Citroen continues to be a popular brand in the UK motoring industry. And now, you can continue the Anglo-French relationship by exploring the latest Citroen cars on the UK car discount website, where you can find some great offers on new and used Citroen models. Whether you're looking for a supermini, a family car, or an SUV, there's sure to be a Citroen model that meets your needs. So why not check out the latest deals today and start your Citroen journey?