The Citroën CX 25 GTi, produced between 1983 and 1985, represented a high-performance variant within the first series (Phase I) of the CX model range. Building upon the innovative hydropneumatic suspension system that defined the CX, the 25 GTi aimed to deliver a more engaging driving experience than the standard models. It occupied a position as the flagship performance trim, sitting above the lower-powered 2.0 and 2.2 liter versions, and offering a more accessible entry point to high-performance Citroën ownership compared to the even more exclusive and expensive Turbo models. The CX itself was a large, five-seat hatchback designed as a successor to the Citroën DS, continuing the company’s tradition of advanced engineering and distinctive styling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroën |
| Model | CX |
| Generation | CX I (Phase I, 1982) |
| Type (Engine) | 25 GTi (138 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1983 |
| End of production | 1985 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 100.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 154 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 138 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 211 Nm @ 4000 rpm (155.63 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M25.659 |
| 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 | 8.75:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.3 l (13 US qt | 10.82 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1885 kg (4155.71 lbs) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 325 l (11.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4659 mm (183.43 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1360 mm (53.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2845 mm (112.01 in.) |
| Front track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1368 mm (53.86 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1050 mm (41.34 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 764 mm (30.08 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CX 25 GTi was the M25.659 engine, a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, employing a dual overhead camshaft design with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by Bosch multi-port fuel injection, contributing to improved efficiency and responsiveness compared to earlier carbureted Citroën engines. The engine produced 138 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 211 Nm (155.63 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 8.75:1 was typical for performance engines of the era. The engine was transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The transmission was a five-speed manual gearbox, chosen to complement the engine’s power output and provide a more engaging driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The CX 25 GTi offered a noticeably more spirited driving experience than the lower-spec CX models. While not a sports car in the modern sense, the 2.5-liter engine provided ample power for comfortable highway cruising and brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of around 8.7 seconds was respectable for a large, front-wheel-drive hatchback in the early 1980s. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. The CX’s signature hydropneumatic suspension played a crucial role in the driving experience, providing a remarkably smooth and comfortable ride, even over rough surfaces. However, the suspension also contributed to a unique handling characteristic – a slight roll in corners, which, while not unsettling, was different from more conventional suspension setups. Compared to the 2.0 and 2.2 liter versions, the 25 GTi offered significantly more power and torque, resulting in improved acceleration and overall performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CX 25 GTi was well-equipped for its time. Standard features typically included power steering, central locking, electric windows, and a high-quality stereo system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather was available as an option. The dashboard featured a distinctive Citroën design with a combination of analog gauges and warning lights. Optional extras included air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded sound systems. The GTi trim also featured subtle exterior styling cues, such as unique wheel trims and badging, to differentiate it from the lower-spec models.
Chassis & Braking
The CX 25 GTi utilized a robust chassis designed to handle the increased power output. The suspension system, as mentioned, was the advanced hydropneumatic system, offering self-leveling and adjustable ride height. The front suspension featured independent double wishbones, while the rear suspension employed a trailing arm design. Braking was provided by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. The braking system was generally considered effective for the car’s weight and performance, although it lacked the anti-lock braking system (ABS) that would become more common in later years.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CX 25 GTi was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined engine, and distinctive styling. However, some critics noted the car’s relatively high price and complex hydropneumatic suspension, which could be expensive to maintain. Compared to other performance hatchbacks of the era, such as the Ford Escort RS Turbo or the Volkswagen Golf GTI, the CX 25 GTi offered a more luxurious and comfortable experience, but at the expense of outright handling agility. Fuel economy was reasonable for a 2.5-liter engine, averaging around 22-25 mpg in mixed driving conditions.
Legacy
The Citroën CX 25 GTi remains a sought-after classic car today, particularly among enthusiasts of French automobiles and innovative engineering. The M25.659 engine, while not known for being particularly fragile, requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity. The hydropneumatic suspension system is the most complex aspect of the car and can be prone to leaks and failures if not properly maintained. Despite these potential issues, the CX 25 GTi offers a unique and rewarding driving experience that continues to appeal to those who appreciate its blend of comfort, performance, and distinctive styling. The car represents a high point in Citroën’s history of automotive innovation and remains a testament to the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology.
