The Citroën CX 2500 D Limousine, produced between 1978 and 1982, represents a significant iteration of the CX series, Citroën’s flagship saloon intended as a replacement for the venerable DS. This variant, powered by a 2.5-liter diesel engine producing 75 horsepower, occupied a specific niche within the CX lineup, offering a blend of comfort, fuel economy, and long-distance capability. It was positioned as a more economical alternative to the gasoline-powered CX models, appealing to buyers prioritizing practicality and lower running costs. The CX, as a whole, was notable for its advanced hydropneumatic suspension, aerodynamic styling, and innovative features, setting it apart from its contemporaries.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | CX |
| Generation | CX I |
| Type (Engine) | Limousine 2500 D (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1978 |
| End of production | 1982 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 17.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 17.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 16.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 154 km/h (95.69 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.3 kg/Hp, 54.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.2 kg/Nm, 109 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 30 Hp/l |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 2000 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M25-629 |
| Engine displacement | 2499 cm3 (152.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22.25:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.3 l (13 US qt | 10.82 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1376 kg (3033.56 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs) |
| Max load | 534 kg (1177.27 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 325 l (11.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs) |
| Length | 4916 mm (193.54 in.) |
| Width | 1734 mm (68.27 in.) |
| Height | 1357 mm (53.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3095 mm (121.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1360 mm (53.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1057 mm (41.61 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 764 mm (30.08 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.37 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.80 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Citroën CX 2500 D was powered by the M25-629 engine, a 2.5-liter inline-four diesel. This engine utilized precombustion chamber injection, a system common in diesel engines of the era, designed to improve combustion efficiency and reduce noise. The engine’s relatively low compression ratio of 22.25:1, while high for modern standards, was typical for diesel engines of the time. The engine produced 75 horsepower at 4250 rpm and 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. This engine was known for its durability, but its performance was modest. The CX 2500 D was exclusively offered with a five-speed manual transmission, providing a reasonable spread of gears for maximizing fuel economy and managing the engine’s torque characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The CX 2500 D, with its 75 horsepower and manual transmission, offered a driving experience focused on comfort and economy rather than outright performance. Acceleration was leisurely, taking approximately 17.3 seconds to reach 100 km/h (62 mph). The engine’s torque, however, provided adequate pulling power for cruising on highways and tackling moderate inclines. The five-speed gearbox allowed drivers to keep the engine within its optimal operating range, maximizing fuel efficiency. Compared to the more powerful gasoline-powered CX variants, the 2500 D felt significantly slower, but its fuel economy was substantially better. The hydropneumatic suspension, a hallmark of Citroën vehicles, provided a remarkably smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface with ease.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CX 2500 D was generally equipped with a fairly basic level of trim, reflecting its position as a more affordable model within the CX range. Standard features typically included cloth upholstery, a basic dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. Optional extras, such as air conditioning, upgraded audio systems, and leather upholstery, were available, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to some extent. The interior design prioritized functionality and comfort, with a focus on providing a relaxing driving environment. The CX’s distinctive dashboard layout, with its satellite controls for various functions, was a defining feature of the model.
Chassis & Braking
The CX 2500 D featured Citroën’s renowned hydropneumatic suspension system, which utilized self-leveling spheres and a pressurized hydraulic fluid to provide a consistently smooth ride. The front suspension employed independent double wishbones, while the rear suspension utilized a trailing arm design. Braking was accomplished via ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The steering system was a rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive handling. The CX’s aerodynamic body shape contributed to its stability at higher speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën CX 2500 D was generally well-received by critics for its comfort, fuel economy, and innovative technology. However, its modest performance was often cited as a drawback. Compared to other CX variants, such as the 2.0 or 2.2-liter gasoline models, the 2500 D offered significantly better fuel economy but lacked the same level of acceleration and overall performance. It competed with other large saloons of the era, such as the Peugeot 504 and the Ford Granada, offering a unique combination of comfort and practicality. The diesel variant appealed to buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and long-distance cruising capabilities.
Legacy
The Citroën CX 2500 D, while not the most powerful or fastest variant of the CX, remains a respected and admired vehicle among enthusiasts. The M25-629 diesel engine proved to be remarkably durable, and many examples are still on the road today. The CX’s hydropneumatic suspension system, while requiring occasional maintenance, continues to provide a uniquely comfortable ride. In the used car market, the CX 2500 D is often sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its distinctive styling, innovative technology, and comfortable driving experience. Its relative simplicity compared to later, more complex Citroën models also makes it a more accessible vehicle for home mechanics and restorers.
