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