The Citroen Saxo 1.1, produced between 1996 and 1999 as part of the Phase I generation, represented the entry point into the Saxo range. This small, three-door hatchback was a common sight on European roads, designed as an affordable and practical city car. Built upon the shared Peugeot 205/Citroen Saxo platform (often referred to as the X15 platform), the 1.1-liter model aimed to provide basic transportation with reasonable fuel economy. It served as a direct replacement for the Citroen AX, offering a more modern design and improved features while maintaining a focus on value.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Saxo |
| Generation | Saxo (Phase I, 1996) 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.1 (60 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 162 km/h (100.66 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp, 76.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm, 112.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 60 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 53.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 88 Nm @ 3800 rpm (64.91 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | TU1M |
| Engine displacement | 1124 cm3 (68.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 69 mm (2.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 780 kg (1719.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1310 kg (2888.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 280 l (9.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 953 l (33.65 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 390 kg (859.8 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 3718 mm (146.38 in.) |
| Width | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Height | 1390 mm (54.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2385 mm (93.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1381 mm (54.37 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1301 mm (51.22 in.) |
| Front overhang | 748 mm (29.45 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 585 mm (23.03 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 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 | Trailing arm, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 155/70 R13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Saxo 1.1 was the Citroen TU1M engine, a 1.1-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, a mainstay in many small Citroen and Peugeot models of the era, was known for its simplicity and durability. It featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a single-point fuel injection system, which, while less sophisticated than multi-point injection, contributed to the engine’s affordability and ease of maintenance. The TU1M produced 60 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 88 Nm (65 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine was transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual gearbox, although a four-speed automatic transmission was also offered, albeit less commonly. The automatic version significantly impacted performance, as described below.
Driving Characteristics
The Saxo 1.1, even in manual form, wasn’t designed for outright speed. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 12.2 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 100 mph. The 1.1-liter engine felt adequate for city driving and short trips, but struggled when fully loaded or on inclines. The automatic transmission version, while offering convenience, further diminished performance. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than acceleration, resulting in a sluggish response and a noticeable lack of power when overtaking. The steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the suspension provided a reasonably comfortable ride, although it could feel somewhat bouncy on uneven surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Saxo 1.1 was typically offered in a basic trim level, focusing on essential features. Standard equipment included central locking, front power windows, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras included power steering, air conditioning, and alloy wheels. The Saxo 1.1 was positioned as the entry-level model, appealing to first-time car buyers, students, and those seeking an economical runabout. Higher trim levels, such as the Saxo 1.4 and 1.6, offered more features and improved performance.
Chassis & Braking
The Saxo 1.1 utilized a McPherson strut independent suspension system at the front and a trailing arm torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were disc brakes, while the rear brakes were drum brakes – a cost-saving measure common in this segment. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option, enhancing safety. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive control. The relatively light weight of the Saxo 1.1 (around 780 kg or 1720 lbs) helped to offset the modest power output.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen Saxo 1.1 was generally well-received as an affordable and practical city car. Critics praised its fuel economy, ease of driving, and low running costs. However, the 1.1-liter engine was often criticized for its lack of power, particularly when paired with the automatic transmission. Compared to the higher-spec Saxo models, such as the 1.4 and 1.6, the 1.1 offered significantly less performance but at a lower price point. The 1.9 TDI diesel version provided superior fuel economy and torque, but at a higher initial cost. The Saxo competed with other small hatchbacks of the era, such as the Renault Clio, Peugeot 205, and Volkswagen Polo.
Legacy
The Citroen Saxo 1.1, while not a performance icon, proved to be a reliable and durable car. The TU1M engine is known for its longevity, and many examples are still on the road today. The Saxo 1.1 remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers and those seeking a simple, economical vehicle. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are relatively low. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues such as rust and wear and tear on suspension components. The Saxo 1.1 represents a significant part of automotive history, embodying the trend towards affordable and practical transportation in the 1990s.
