The Citroën Evasion 2.0 (121 hp) was a front-wheel-drive minivan produced between 1994 and 1998. Part of the Citroën Type Evasion (22) generation, it represented Citroën’s entry into the increasingly popular multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment. Developed in collaboration with Peugeot and Fiat (resulting in the Peugeot 806 and Fiat Ulysse respectively), the Evasion aimed to provide a spacious and versatile vehicle for families and those requiring significant cargo capacity. This 2.0-liter variant occupied a mid-range position within the Evasion lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel economy, and price. It was positioned below the more powerful 2.1 TD diesel model and above the base 1.8-liter gasoline engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Evasion |
| Generation | Evasion (22) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (121 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 177 km/h (109.98 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm, 121.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 121 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 2600 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RFU XU10J2C |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1403 kg (3093.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 897 kg (1977.55 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3300 l (116.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4454 mm (175.35 in.) |
| Width | 1834 mm (72.2 in.) |
| Height | 1714 mm (67.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2824 mm (111.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Front overhang | 881 mm (34.69 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 749 mm (29.49 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.39 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.35 m (40.52 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 | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | independent torsion suspension, Wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Citroën Evasion 2.0 utilized the RFU variant of the XU10J2C engine, a 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was a staple in Peugeot and Citroën vehicles of the era, known for its relative reliability and straightforward design. It featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing improved efficiency and responsiveness compared to earlier carbureted designs. The engine produced 121 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque at 2600 rpm. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The Evasion 2.0 was typically paired with a five-speed manual transmission, although a four-speed automatic transmission was also available, albeit less common. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, did impact acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0-liter Evasion offered adequate performance for everyday driving, but it wasn’t particularly sporty. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 13.9 seconds, and top speed was approximately 109.98 mph. The automatic transmission, when equipped, resulted in slightly slower acceleration times and a less engaging driving experience compared to the manual version. The engine’s torque curve provided reasonable pulling power for highway cruising and overtaking, but it did require downshifting for more spirited maneuvers. The Evasion’s focus was on comfort and practicality rather than outright performance. The suspension, tuned for ride quality, absorbed bumps effectively, making it a comfortable vehicle for long journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Evasion 2.0 typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an adjustable steering column. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials. Higher trim levels offered features such as air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The Evasion was designed to be a versatile vehicle, and many examples were equipped with features like swiveling captain’s chairs in the second row, allowing for flexible seating arrangements. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Evasion featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering was a rack and pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën Evasion, along with its Peugeot and Fiat counterparts, was generally well-received in the European market. Critics praised its spacious interior, versatile seating arrangements, and comfortable ride. However, the 2.0-liter engine was sometimes criticized for being underpowered, particularly when paired with the automatic transmission. Compared to the 2.1 TD diesel version, the 2.0-liter offered less torque but better fuel economy in certain driving conditions. The 1.8-liter gasoline engine was even less powerful but more affordable. The Evasion competed with other MPVs such as the Renault Espace and Volkswagen Sharan.
Legacy
The Citroën Evasion, while no longer in production, remains a popular choice for those seeking a spacious and affordable MPV. The XU10J2C engine is known for its durability, and well-maintained examples can still provide reliable service. However, age-related issues such as corrosion and wear on suspension components are common. The automatic transmission, while convenient, is generally considered less robust than the manual version. Today, the Evasion represents a significant chapter in Citroën’s history, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovative and practical vehicle design.
