The Citroën CX II 25 GTi Turbo 2, produced between 1986 and 1989, represents a high-performance variant of the innovative CX II series. Positioned as the flagship performance model, it built upon the already technologically advanced CX platform, offering a compelling blend of luxury, comfort, and spirited driving. The CX II itself was a continuation of the original CX, launched in 1974, and benefited from refinements to the already groundbreaking hydropneumatic suspension system. This particular 25 GTi Turbo 2 model was aimed at enthusiasts seeking a powerful and refined grand tourer, offering a significant step up in performance from the naturally aspirated versions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | CX |
| Generation | CX II |
| Type (Engine) | 25 GTi Turbo 2 (160 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1986 |
| End of production | 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.5 l/100 km (16.2 US mpg, 19.5 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg, 25.7 UK mpg, 9.1 km/l) |
| 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 | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 115.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 198.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 4750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64 Hp/l |
| Torque | 275 Nm @ 3250 rpm (202.83 lb.-ft. @ 3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M25-667 |
| Engine displacement | 2500 cm3 (152.56 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 | 7.75:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.5 l (13.21 US qt | 11 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1385 kg (3053.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1885 kg (4155.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 485 l (17.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 507 l (17.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4650 mm (183.07 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1360 mm (53.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2845 mm (112.01 in.) |
| Front track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1370 mm (53.94 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.50 m (41.01 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element |
| Rear suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CX II 25 GTi Turbo 2 is the M25-667 engine, a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is distinguished by its turbocharging and multi-port fuel injection system. The turbocharger, a Garrett T3 unit, significantly boosts power output compared to the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engines found in other CX II models. The engine utilizes a relatively low 7.75:1 compression ratio, necessary to accommodate the forced induction. The fuel injection system is a Bosch L-Jetronic system, providing precise fuel delivery for optimal performance and efficiency. The engine’s valvetrain consists of two valves per cylinder, operated by a single overhead camshaft. The engine is transversely mounted, contributing to a more compact engine bay and improved weight distribution. The five-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option for this model, chosen for its responsiveness and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 25 GTi Turbo 2 delivers a noticeably more engaging driving experience than its naturally aspirated counterparts. The turbocharger provides a surge of power in the mid-range, resulting in strong acceleration. While not a sports car in the modern sense, the CX II 25 GTi Turbo 2 offers brisk performance, with a 0-60 mph time of around 8.7 seconds and a top speed of 133.59 mph. The hydropneumatic suspension, a Citroën hallmark, provides an exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, even over rough surfaces. The steering, while hydraulic, can feel somewhat vague by modern standards, but it is relatively light and easy to use. The five-speed manual transmission offers precise shifts, allowing the driver to fully exploit the engine’s power band. The gear ratios are well-chosen for both acceleration and cruising, making it a capable long-distance tourer.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 25 GTi Turbo 2 was well-equipped for its time. Standard features included power windows, central locking, and a high-quality stereo system. The interior was typically trimmed with velour upholstery, and featured a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Optional extras included a sunroof, air conditioning, and upgraded sound systems. The dashboard layout is characteristically Citroën, with a unique combination of analog gauges and switches. The CX II also featured Citroën’s Diravi steering, a power steering system that varied the steering ratio based on vehicle speed, further enhancing comfort and control.
Chassis & Braking
The CX II utilizes Citroën’s renowned hydropneumatic suspension system, which provides a self-leveling ride and exceptional comfort. The suspension consists of spheres filled with nitrogen gas and hydraulic fluid, which act as both springs and dampers. The front suspension utilizes double wishbones, while the rear suspension employs trailing arms. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, providing enhanced stopping power and stability. The CX II’s chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to its agile handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CX II 25 GTi Turbo 2 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, comfort, and innovative technology. However, some critics noted the car’s complex engineering and potential for reliability issues. Compared to other performance hatchbacks of the era, such as the Ford Escort RS Turbo or the Volkswagen Golf GTI, the CX II offered a more luxurious and refined experience, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy, while reasonable for a turbocharged engine of its size, was not a strong point, averaging around 21.4 US mpg in combined driving. The naturally aspirated CX 25 models offered significantly better fuel economy, but lacked the performance of the Turbo 2.
Legacy
The Citroën CX II 25 GTi Turbo 2 remains a sought-after classic car today, appreciated for its unique design, advanced technology, and engaging driving experience. While the hydropneumatic suspension system requires specialized maintenance, the engine itself is generally considered to be reliable if properly maintained. Parts availability can be a challenge, but a dedicated community of CX enthusiasts exists to provide support and resources. The CX II 25 GTi Turbo 2 represents a high point in Citroën’s engineering prowess and continues to be a distinctive and rewarding vehicle for those willing to embrace its unique character.
