The Citroen Evasion 1.8 (99 hp) was a front-wheel-drive minivan produced between 1996 and 1998. Part of the Citroen Evasion (22) generation, this variant occupied the entry-level position in the lineup, offering a more affordable option compared to higher-powered engines. It was primarily marketed in Europe as a spacious and practical family vehicle, competing with models like the Renault Espace and Volkswagen Sharan. The Evasion was a collaborative effort between Citroën, Peugeot, and Fiat, resulting in the shared platform and mechanical components found in the Peugeot 806 and Fiat Ulysse.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Evasion |
| Generation | Evasion (22) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 (99 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.3 kg/Hp, 65.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.3 kg/Nm, 97.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 99 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 147 Nm @ 2600 rpm (108.42 lb.-ft. @ 2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | LFZ XU7JP |
| Engine displacement | 1761 cm3 (107.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.25:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1510 kg (3328.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 790 kg (1741.65 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 | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1540 mm (60.63 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 | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Citroen Evasion 1.8 utilized the LFZ XU7JP engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine was a staple in Peugeot and Citroen vehicles of the era. It featured a naturally aspirated configuration with a single overhead camshaft (OHC) operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, contributing to reasonable fuel efficiency for its time. The XU7JP engine produced 99 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 147 Nm (108.42 lb-ft) of torque at 2600 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized reliability and ease of maintenance over outright performance. The Evasion 1.8 was equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. This transmission was chosen for its durability and relatively simple construction.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8-liter engine in the Evasion provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was modest, and overtaking required careful planning. The 5-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but the overall experience was geared towards comfortable cruising rather than sporty driving. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter or diesel variants, the 1.8 felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and relaxed highway driving, resulting in a somewhat lethargic feel in city traffic. However, the Evasion’s comfortable suspension and spacious interior made it a pleasant vehicle for long journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Evasion 1.8 typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as the entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, and basic cloth upholstery. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were features like electric windows and a radio/cassette player. The interior design was functional and practical, with a focus on maximizing space and usability. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as upgraded upholstery, additional storage compartments, and more sophisticated audio systems. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
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 comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums. This combination was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance capabilities. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available as an option, 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 Citroen Evasion 1.8 was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, the 1.8-liter engine was often criticized for being underpowered, particularly when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to the 2.0-liter and diesel variants, the 1.8 offered a lower purchase price but compromised on performance. The Evasion’s fuel economy was competitive with other minivans in its class, averaging around 28-32 mpg on the combined cycle. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the electrical system.
Legacy
The Citroen Evasion 1.8, while not the most powerful or exciting version of the model, remains a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers in the used car market. The XU7JP engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. Parts availability is generally good, as the engine was used in a wide range of Peugeot and Citroen vehicles. While finding a well-maintained example may require some searching, the Evasion 1.8 offers a practical and affordable solution for families needing a spacious and reliable minivan. Its simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to repair and maintain, appealing to those with some mechanical aptitude.
