1999-2000 Citroen Evasion (U6U) 1.9 TD (90 Hp)

The Citroën Evasion 1.9 TD (90 hp) was a diesel-powered minivan produced between 1999 and 2000. Part of the U6U generation, it represented a practical and spacious family transport option within Citroën’s lineup. The Evasion, along with its Peugeot 806 and Fiat Ulysse siblings (all built at the Sevelnord plant in Valenciennes, France), aimed to provide a comfortable and versatile alternative to traditional estate cars and larger sedans. This particular 1.9 TD variant occupied a mid-range position, offering a balance between fuel economy, practicality, and affordability. It was positioned below the more powerful petrol engine options and above the base-level trims.

Technical Specifications

INTRODUCTION

The Citroën Evasion, launched in 1994 and produced until 2002, was a large MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) designed to cater to families needing significant space and versatility. The U6U series, encompassing models from 1999-2000, saw continued refinement of the original design. The 1.9 TD variant, producing 90 horsepower, was a popular choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and reasonable running costs over outright performance. It served as a workhorse for families and businesses alike, offering a practical solution for transporting passengers and cargo. The Evasion shared its platform and many components with the Peugeot 806 and Fiat Ulysse, a result of the collaborative Sevelnord venture.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the Evasion 1.9 TD is the XUD9TF engine, a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, also known by codes DHX XUD9TF, DHX XUD9BTF, and D8B XUD9TF, is a robust and relatively simple design. It utilizes a precombustion chamber injection system, a common feature of diesel engines of that era. This system involves injecting fuel into a precombustion chamber, where it partially ignites before entering the main combustion chamber, promoting more complete combustion. The engine features an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. A turbocharger is employed to boost power output, bringing the total to 90 hp at 4000 rpm and 196 Nm (144.56 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2250 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The Evasion 1.9 TD was typically paired with a five-speed manual transmission, although an automatic transmission was also available, albeit less common. The automatic transmission was a four-speed unit, designed to provide smooth and convenient shifting, but at the expense of some fuel economy and responsiveness.

Driving Characteristics

The 1.9 TD engine in the Evasion, coupled with the five-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 16.8 seconds, and the top speed was limited to 160 km/h (99.42 mph). The engine’s torque peak at 2250 rpm meant that it offered reasonable pulling power for everyday driving and when fully loaded. The automatic transmission version, while offering convenience, noticeably dulled performance due to the torque converter losses and less direct power delivery. Gear ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel economy and providing comfortable cruising rather than sporty acceleration. The Evasion’s high weight (1565 kg / 3450.23 lbs) further contributed to its leisurely pace.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Evasion 1.9 TD 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 available. Higher trim levels offered features such as air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a more sophisticated audio system. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics. Optional extras included a sunroof, rear parking sensors, and upgraded seating configurations.

Chassis & Braking

The Evasion utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension system at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension employed an independent torsion beam setup, which helped to maintain stability and minimize body roll. 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, making it relatively easy to maneuver, despite the vehicle’s size.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Citroën Evasion 1.9 TD was generally well-received by critics as a practical and spacious family vehicle. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, particularly compared to petrol-powered alternatives. However, its performance was often criticized as being somewhat sluggish, especially with the automatic transmission. Compared to the higher-powered petrol versions of the Evasion, the 1.9 TD offered significantly less performance but superior fuel efficiency. The 1.9 TD was also often compared to the Peugeot 806 and Fiat Ulysse, which were essentially the same vehicle with different badging and minor trim variations. The Citroën often benefited from a slightly more affordable price point.

Legacy

The XUD9 engine family, including the XUD9TF used in the Evasion 1.9 TD, is known for its durability and longevity. While not without its quirks (such as potential issues with the Lucas DPC fuel pump), the engine is generally considered to be reliable if properly maintained. Today, the Evasion 1.9 TD can be found as a relatively affordable used vehicle, appealing to those seeking a spacious and practical MPV. Parts availability is generally good, thanks to the shared components with the Peugeot 806 and Fiat Ulysse. However, potential buyers should be aware of the age-related issues common to vehicles of this era, such as corrosion and wear and tear on suspension components.