The Best and Worst-Selling Cars from Citroën: A Comprehensive Analysis
Citroën is a brand synonymous with innovation, creativity, and French flair. Throughout its history, the company has produced both iconic best-sellers and models that failed to resonate with buyers. This article dives into Citroën’s top-selling cars, exploring the reasons behind their popularity, and examines some of its worst-performing models, analyzing what went wrong.
Top-Selling Citroën Cars: The Stars of the Brand
1. Citroën 2CV (1948–1990)
- Units Sold: Over 5 million (including derivatives).
- Why It Was Popular:
- Designed for post-war France, the 2CV was simple, reliable, and affordable.
- Its innovative suspension system made it perfect for rural roads.
- Quirky design and incredible practicality for farmers and urban families alike.
- Famous marketing slogan: “A car for the people that could carry a basket of eggs across a plowed field without breaking one.”
- Legacy: A cultural icon, the 2CV represents Citroën’s commitment to accessible transportation.
2. Citroën DS (1955–1975)
- Units Sold: Over 1.45 million.
- Why It Was Popular:
- Revolutionary design featuring hydropneumatic suspension for unmatched comfort.
- Aerodynamic styling and futuristic interior set new standards in luxury.
- Innovative technology like power steering and disc brakes.
- Used by French presidents and diplomats, symbolizing elegance and sophistication.
- Legacy: Often considered one of the most beautiful cars ever made, the DS cemented Citroën’s reputation for innovation.
3. Citroën Xsara Picasso (1999–2012)
- Units Sold: Over 1.7 million.
- Why It Was Popular:
- Compact MPV that combined affordability with practicality.
- Modular seating and large cargo space appealed to families.
- Distinctive design helped it stand out in the MPV segment.
- Legacy: One of the most successful family cars of its era, setting the stage for future Citroën MPVs.
4. Citroën C3 (2002–Present)
- Units Sold: Over 4.5 million (as of 2023).
- Why It Was Popular:
- Stylish, affordable, and compact, perfect for urban commuters.
- Range of efficient engines and customizable options.
- Regular updates to its design and technology have kept it competitive.
- Legacy: A consistent performer in Citroën’s lineup, with strong appeal to younger drivers.
5. Citroën BX (1982–1994)
- Units Sold: Over 2.3 million.
- Why It Was Popular:
- Designed by Marcello Gandini (of Lamborghini Miura fame), it brought sleek styling to the family car segment.
- Advanced suspension system provided a smooth ride.
- Affordable pricing and fuel-efficient diesel engines made it a hit.
- Legacy: Helped Citroën recover financially during a challenging period.
6. Citroën C4 Picasso / SpaceTourer (2006–2022)
- Units Sold: Over 3 million.
- Why It Was Popular:
- Innovative features like panoramic windshields and flexible seating.
- Sleek, modern design for a traditionally boxy MPV segment.
- Perfect for large families and long road trips.
- Legacy: A leader in the MPV category until the rise of SUVs.
7. Citroën AX (1986–1998)
- Units Sold: Over 2.4 million.
- Why It Was Popular:
- Lightweight, economical, and affordable, the AX was ideal for young drivers.
- Its small size made it perfect for city driving.
- Legacy: One of Citroën’s most affordable and fuel-efficient models, the AX had a lasting impact on the compact car market.
Worst Performing Citroën Cars: The Brand’s Missed Opportunities
1. Citroën SM (1970–1975)
- Units Sold: Around 12,920.
- What Went Wrong:
- High price tag and niche appeal limited its market.
- Complex mechanical systems made it expensive to maintain.
- Timing: Released during the 1973 oil crisis, which devastated sales of luxury cars.
- Legacy: Despite commercial failure, the SM remains an icon of design and engineering.
2. Citroën C6 (2005–2012)
- Units Sold: Around 23,000.
- What Went Wrong:
- Targeted a dwindling executive car market dominated by German brands.
- Quirky styling and high price alienated mainstream buyers.
- Lack of brand recognition in the luxury segment.
- Legacy: While praised for its comfort and technology, the C6 struggled to find an audience.
3. Citroën Ami (1961–1978)
- Units Sold: Around 1.8 million (still a moderate success, but below expectations).
- What Went Wrong:
- Polarizing styling, particularly the reverse-rake rear window, limited its appeal.
- Competed directly with the more beloved 2CV.
- Legacy: Despite its sales, the Ami never achieved the cultural impact of the 2CV.
4. Citroën C3 Pluriel (2003–2010)
- Units Sold: Around 110,000.
- What Went Wrong:
- Overly complex convertible mechanism was prone to leaks and failures.
- Niche design did not appeal to a wide audience.
- Legacy: A quirky experiment that failed to translate into significant sales.
5. Citroën ZX (1991–1998)
- Units Sold: Around 1.2 million (modest compared to rivals).
- What Went Wrong:
- Conservative design lacked the flair Citroën was known for.
- Overshadowed by competitors like the Peugeot 306 and Volkswagen Golf.
- Legacy: Though competent, the ZX was one of Citroën’s less memorable efforts.
League Table: Citroën Cars by Sales
Rank | Car Model | Years of Production | Total Units Sold |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Citroën 2CV | 1948–1990 | 5,114,969 |
2 | Citroën C3 | 2002–Present | 4,500,000+ |
3 | Citroën C4 Picasso | 2006–2022 | 3,000,000+ |
4 | Citroën BX | 1982–1994 | 2,337,000 |
5 | Citroën AX | 1986–1998 | 2,425,138 |
6 | Citroën DS | 1955–1975 | 1,455,746 |
7 | Citroën Xsara Picasso | 1999–2012 | 1,760,000+ |
8 | Citroën ZX | 1991–1998 | 1,200,000 |
9 | Citroën Ami | 1961–1978 | 1,800,000 |
10 | Citroën C3 Pluriel | 2003–2010 | 110,000 |
11 | Citroën SM | 1970–1975 | 12,920 |
12 | Citroën C6 | 2005–2012 | 23,000 |