The Citroen CX II 25 RD Turbo 2, produced between 1987 and 1989, represented a refined iteration of Citroen’s innovative CX series. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the CX II lineup, this variant combined a turbocharged diesel engine with a five-speed manual transmission, aiming to deliver a balance of performance and fuel economy. The CX II, building upon the original CX launched in 1974, continued Citroen’s tradition of advanced engineering, particularly in its hydropneumatic suspension system. This model was primarily sold in European markets, where diesel engines were gaining popularity due to their efficiency and lower running costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | CX |
| Generation | CX II |
| Type (Engine) | 25 RD Turbo 2 (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3900 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48 Hp/l |
| Torque | 256 Nm @ 2000 rpm (188.82 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M25-669 |
| 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 | 21.25:1 |
| 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 capacity | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1360 kg (2998.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1905 kg (4199.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 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) |
| 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 track | 1370 mm (53.94 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.5 m (41.01 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element |
| Rear suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 195/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CX II 25 RD Turbo 2 is the M25-669 engine, a 2.5-liter inline-four diesel. This engine utilizes precombustion chamber injection, a system common in older diesel designs where fuel is injected into a small pre-chamber connected to the main combustion chamber. This promotes more complete combustion and reduces engine noise. The addition of a turbocharger significantly boosted power output to 120 horsepower at 3900 rpm and 256 Nm (188.82 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was a crucial component, allowing drivers to effectively manage the engine’s torque curve and optimize fuel efficiency. The gearbox ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel economy while still providing adequate acceleration. This engine code was known for its durability, but also for its complexity, requiring specialized knowledge for maintenance.
Driving Characteristics
The CX II 25 RD Turbo 2 offered a unique driving experience largely defined by Citroen’s 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 strong low-end torque, making it well-suited for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 10 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 195 km/h (121.17 mph). Compared to the naturally aspirated 2.2-liter diesel versions, the Turbo 2 offered a noticeable performance improvement. However, it didn’t match the responsiveness of the gasoline-powered CX models. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control compared to the optional automatic, and many enthusiasts preferred it for its more engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CX II 25 RD Turbo 2 typically came equipped with features considered standard for a mid-range vehicle in the late 1980s. This included power steering, central locking, and cloth upholstery. Optional extras included leather upholstery, air conditioning, and a sunroof. The dashboard layout was characteristically Citroen, featuring a unique combination of analog gauges and switches. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering ample space for passengers and luggage. The trim level was generally positioned above the base diesel models but below the more luxurious and powerful gasoline variants.
Chassis & Braking
The CX II featured a robust chassis designed to handle the stresses of the hydropneumatic suspension. The front suspension utilized Citroen’s signature hydropneumatic system, while the rear also employed a similar setup. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The hydraulic braking system was integrated with the hydropneumatic suspension, offering consistent braking performance even under varying load conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CX II 25 RD Turbo 2 was generally well-received by automotive critics for its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and unique design. However, some criticized its relatively modest performance compared to gasoline-powered rivals. Compared to other diesel models in its class, the CX II offered a compelling combination of refinement and economy. Its hydropneumatic suspension set it apart from most competitors, providing a level of ride comfort that was unmatched. Reliability was generally good, although the complexity of the hydropneumatic system and the diesel engine required regular maintenance by skilled technicians.
Legacy
The Citroen CX II 25 RD Turbo 2 remains a sought-after classic car among enthusiasts who appreciate its innovative engineering and unique character. The M25-669 engine, while aging, is known for its durability when properly maintained. However, finding qualified mechanics to work on these cars can be challenging. The hydropneumatic suspension requires periodic fluid changes and component replacements to maintain optimal performance. Today, well-maintained examples of the CX II 25 RD Turbo 2 command a premium in the used car market, representing a piece of Citroen’s rich automotive history.
