The Citroën CX II 25 DTR Turbo, produced between 1985 and 1987, represented a sophisticated evolution of Citroën’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a premium offering within the CX II range, the 25 DTR Turbo combined a turbocharged diesel engine with a five-speed manual transmission, aiming to deliver a blend of performance and fuel efficiency. It built upon the innovative hydropneumatic suspension system that defined the CX line, offering a uniquely comfortable ride. The CX II, internally designated as the Series 2, featured subtle styling revisions and mechanical refinements over the original CX, solidifying its place as a technologically advanced vehicle of its era. This variant was primarily sold in European markets, catering to buyers seeking a long-distance, comfortable, and relatively economical grand tourer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | CX |
| Generation | CX II |
| Type (Engine) | Limousine 25 DTR Turbo (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1985 year |
| End of production | 1987 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13 sec |
| Maximum speed | 174 km/h (108.12 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.3 kg/Hp, 65.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 149 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 38 Hp/l |
| Torque | 216 Nm @ 2000 rpm (159.31 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M25-648 |
| 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 | 22.25:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.5 l (13.21 US qt | 11 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 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 trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 725 kg (1598.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4900 mm (192.91 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1375 mm (54.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3095 mm (121.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1368 mm (53.86 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 157 mm (6.18 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.40 m (43.96 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 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 |
| Tires size | 195/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CX II 25 DTR Turbo was the M25-648, a 2.5-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine utilized precombustion chamber injection, a system common in European diesels of the period, which improved combustion efficiency and reduced engine noise compared to direct injection. The addition of a turbocharger significantly boosted power output to 95 horsepower at 3700 rpm and 216 Nm (159.31 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The turbocharger, while enhancing performance, also necessitated an intercooler to reduce intake air temperatures and prevent engine knock. The engine’s robust construction and relatively low compression ratio (22.25:1) contributed to its durability. The five-speed manual transmission provided a good balance between acceleration and fuel economy, with gear ratios tailored to exploit the engine’s torque curve. The transmission was fully synchronized, offering smooth and precise gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The CX II 25 DTR Turbo offered a unique driving experience, largely defined by its hydropneumatic suspension. This system provided an exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with remarkable ease. The turbocharged diesel engine, while not exceptionally powerful, delivered adequate performance for highway cruising and overtaking. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 13 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 108 mph. Compared to the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter diesel CX models, the DTR Turbo offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness. However, it didn’t match the performance of the gasoline-powered CX 2500 GTI. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to maintain optimal engine speed for efficient cruising or spirited driving. The steering, while hydraulic, lacked some of the feedback found in more modern systems.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 25 DTR Turbo was generally well-equipped for its time. Standard features included power steering, ABS anti-lock brakes, and comfortable cloth upholstery. The interior design was typically Citroën – functional and ergonomically focused. Optional extras included leather upholstery, air conditioning, and a sunroof. The dashboard layout was characterized by its array of switches and controls, reflecting the car’s complex technology. The CX II also featured a distinctive steering wheel design with a single spoke and various controls integrated into the hub.
Chassis & Braking
The CX II’s chassis was designed around its innovative hydropneumatic suspension. This system used self-leveling spheres filled with nitrogen and hydraulic fluid to maintain a constant ride height and provide exceptional ride quality. The front suspension utilized independent double wishbones, while the rear suspension employed a trailing arm design. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. The ABS system helped to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, enhancing safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën CX II 25 DTR Turbo was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, refined engine, and advanced technology. However, some critics noted its relatively high price and complex maintenance requirements. Compared to other diesel-powered cars of the era, the CX II DTR Turbo offered a superior level of refinement and performance. It was often compared to the Peugeot 505 Turbo Diesel, offering a similar blend of comfort and efficiency. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the CX II DTR Turbo achieving around 43.6 US mpg on the highway.
Legacy
The Citroën CX II 25 DTR Turbo represents a high point in Citroën’s engineering prowess. While production numbers were relatively low, the car has gained a following among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique blend of comfort, technology, and style. The M25-648 diesel engine, when properly maintained, proved to be remarkably durable. Today, finding a well-preserved CX II 25 DTR Turbo is becoming increasingly difficult, and values are steadily rising. The hydropneumatic suspension system requires specialized knowledge and maintenance, making it a potential challenge for owners. However, for those willing to invest the time and effort, the CX II 25 DTR Turbo offers a truly rewarding and distinctive driving experience.
