The Citroen Evasion 1.9 TD (90 hp) was a popular European minivan produced between 1994 and 1998. Part of the Citroen Type Evasion (22) generation, it represented a significant offering in the multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment, designed to cater to families and those requiring substantial passenger and cargo space. The Evasion was a collaborative effort with Peugeot and Fiat, resulting in the closely related Peugeot 806 and Fiat Ulysse models. This particular 1.9 TD variant, equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, occupied a middle ground in the Evasion lineup, offering a balance between fuel economy, practicality, and affordability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Evasion |
| Generation | Evasion (22) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 TD (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 215 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 16 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.8 kg/Hp, 59.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm, 129.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 47.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 196 Nm @ 2250 rpm (144.56 lb.-ft. @ 2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DHX XUD9TF, DHX XUD9BTF, D8B XUD9TF |
| Engine displacement | 1905 cm3 (116.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 23:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 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 | 400 l (14.13 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.) |
| 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 | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Citroen Evasion 1.9 TD was the XUD9 family of diesel engines. Specifically, this variant utilized the DHX XUD9TF, DHX XUD9BTF, or D8B XUD9TF engine code, all variations of the 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was known for its robust construction and relatively simple mechanical design. It employed precombustion chamber injection, a system common in European diesels of the era, which involved injecting fuel into a pre-chamber before it entered the main combustion chamber. This aided in more complete combustion and reduced engine noise. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) operating two valves per cylinder. A turbocharger was added to boost power output to 90 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 196 Nm (144.56 lb-ft) of torque at 2250 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was a standard feature, providing a reasonable spread of gears for both urban driving and highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.9 TD engine, while not particularly powerful, provided adequate performance for the Evasion’s size and weight. Acceleration was leisurely, taking around 16.8 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). However, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it well-suited for carrying passengers and luggage. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter gasoline engines offered in the Evasion, the 1.9 TD prioritized fuel economy over outright speed. It also offered a more relaxed driving experience, with less need for frequent gear changes. Compared to the later 2.0 HDI direct injection diesel, the XUD9 felt comparatively agricultural, with more engine noise and vibration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.9 TD variant of the Evasion typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power steering, central locking, and basic instrumentation. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, if not luxurious, dashboard layout. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and upgraded audio systems. Higher trim levels offered features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and additional safety equipment. The Evasion was designed with practicality in mind, offering a highly configurable interior with removable seats to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The Evasion utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride, although handling was not particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was included as standard, enhancing safety. The steering was a rack and pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, providing relatively light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen Evasion 1.9 TD was well-received in the European market as a practical and affordable MPV. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some criticized its relatively slow acceleration and somewhat dated interior design. Compared to the gasoline-powered Evasions, the 1.9 TD offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for families and those who covered long distances. The Peugeot 806 and Fiat Ulysse, being mechanically similar, offered comparable performance and features.
Legacy
The XUD9 engine family, including the 1.9 TD variant used in the Evasion, is known for its durability and longevity. Many examples are still on the road today, testament to their robust construction. While maintenance can be relatively straightforward, age-related issues such as turbocharger wear and fuel injection system problems are common. In the used car market, the Evasion 1.9 TD represents an affordable and practical option for those seeking a spacious and reliable MPV. Its simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair, appealing to those with some mechanical aptitude. However, finding parts can become increasingly challenging as the vehicle ages.
