1985-1987 Citroen CX II Break 25 DTR Turbo (95 Hp)

The Citroën CX II Break 25 DTR Turbo, produced between 1985 and 1987, represents a unique blend of luxury, innovation, and diesel performance within the iconic CX series. As a station wagon (estate) variant, it offered practicality alongside Citroën’s renowned hydropneumatic suspension and distinctive styling. This particular model, powered by the 2.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 95 horsepower, occupied a mid-range position in the CX Break lineup, appealing to buyers seeking fuel efficiency and comfortable long-distance cruising. The CX II Break, built upon the CX platform (often referred to as the Series 2), benefited from refinements over the original CX, including improved interior appointments and subtle styling updates.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the CX 25 DTR Turbo is the M25-648 2.5-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine utilized precombustion chamber injection, a system common in European diesels of the era, which improved combustion efficiency and reduced engine noise compared to direct injection. The addition of a turbocharger significantly boosted power output to 95 horsepower, a considerable increase over naturally aspirated diesel versions. The engine’s robust construction and relatively low compression ratio (21:1) contributed to its durability. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a balance between fuel economy and performance. The gearbox was designed to handle the engine’s torque output effectively, although gear ratios were optimized for cruising rather than outright acceleration.

Driving Characteristics

The CX 25 DTR Turbo offered a unique driving experience, largely defined by Citroën’s hydropneumatic suspension. This system provided an exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. However, the 95 horsepower output and the weight of the Break body style meant that acceleration was not particularly brisk. 0-60 mph took around 13.2 seconds, and top speed was limited to 106 mph. Compared to the gasoline-powered CX models, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for long-distance travel. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control, but the turbocharger’s lag meant that careful gear selection was necessary to maximize performance. The steering, while hydraulic, lacked the directness of some contemporary cars.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The CX II Break 25 DTR Turbo was generally well-equipped for its time. Standard features included power steering, central locking, and a comprehensive instrument panel. Interior upholstery typically consisted of cloth seats, although leather options were available. The dashboard layout was characteristically Citroën, with a unique combination of analog gauges and switches. Optional extras included air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The Break body style offered a generous amount of cargo space, making it a practical choice for families and those needing to transport large items. The interior trim level was generally considered to be a step above the base CX models, reflecting the higher price point of the turbocharged diesel variant.

Chassis & Braking

The CX II Break featured Citroën’s innovative hydropneumatic suspension system, which automatically adjusted ride height and damping based on road conditions and vehicle load. This system provided exceptional ride comfort and handling stability. The front suspension utilized double wishbones, while the rear suspension employed trailing arms. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system was generally effective, although it lacked the sophistication of more modern anti-lock braking systems. The car’s relatively high weight and front-wheel-drive configuration meant that under hard braking, there was a tendency for the front wheels to lock up.

Market Reception & Comparison

The CX 25 DTR Turbo was well-received by automotive critics for its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and distinctive styling. However, its relatively modest performance and complex hydropneumatic suspension system were sometimes cited as drawbacks. Compared to other CX variants, the 25 DTR Turbo offered a compelling combination of practicality and economy. It was positioned above the naturally aspirated diesel models in terms of price and performance, but below the more powerful gasoline-powered versions. The car’s fuel economy was particularly impressive, making it a popular choice for drivers covering long distances. Reliability was generally good, although the hydropneumatic suspension system required regular maintenance.

Legacy

The Citroën CX II Break 25 DTR Turbo remains a fondly remembered car among enthusiasts. Its unique blend of innovation, comfort, and practicality has ensured its place in automotive history. While the hydropneumatic suspension system can be expensive to maintain, the engine itself is known for its durability. Today, well-maintained examples of the CX 25 DTR Turbo are sought after by collectors and classic car enthusiasts. The car represents a high point in Citroën’s engineering prowess and a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation. The CX’s influence can still be seen in modern Citroën models, particularly in their emphasis on ride comfort and distinctive styling.