The Citroen Saxo 1.5D, produced between 1996 and 1999, represents an entry-level offering within the first phase (Phase I) of the Saxo model range. This 3-door hatchback was primarily aimed at the European market, offering economical transportation for budget-conscious buyers. Positioned as the base model, it provided a practical and affordable alternative to higher-spec Saxo variants. The Saxo itself was a significant vehicle for Citroen, replacing the aging AX and serving as a key competitor in the supermini segment alongside rivals like the Peugeot 206, Renault Clio, and Ford Fiesta.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Saxo |
| Generation | Saxo (Phase I, 1996) 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 D (57 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 158 km/h (98.18 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 57 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 37.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 95 Nm @ 2250 rpm (70.07 lb.-ft. @ 2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | VJZ TUD5 |
| Engine displacement | 1527 cm3 (93.18 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 23:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.75 l (5.02 US qt, 4.18 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt, 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 865 kg (1907 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 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%) | 700 kg (1543.24 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 445 kg (981.06 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 track | 1301 mm (51.22 in.) |
| Front overhang | 748 mm (29.45 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 585 mm (23.03 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 165/70 R13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Saxo 1.5D is the VJZ (or sometimes designated TUD5) engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine, a product of Peugeot-Citroen’s collaboration, was known for its robustness and fuel efficiency, rather than outright performance. It utilizes a precombustion chamber injection system, a common diesel technology of the era, which involves injecting fuel into a pre-chamber before it enters the main combustion chamber. This design aids in smoother combustion and reduced engine noise compared to direct injection systems. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (OHC) operating two valves per cylinder. The 5-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine, prioritizing fuel economy and simplicity over sporty driving dynamics.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5D-equipped Saxo delivers modest performance. With 57 horsepower, acceleration is leisurely, taking approximately 15.7 seconds to reach 62 mph. The engine’s torque peak of 95 Nm (70 lb-ft) at 2250 rpm provides adequate pulling power for everyday driving, but overtaking maneuvers require careful planning. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine needs to be revved to access its limited power. Compared to the more powerful 1.6i petrol versions, the 1.5D feels significantly slower, but it offers a substantial advantage in fuel economy. The manual transmission, while not particularly sporty, is precise and easy to use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5D Saxo was typically offered with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, and a basic stereo system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras, such as air conditioning and electric windows, were available but often added a significant cost to the vehicle. The trim level was generally considered the entry point to the Saxo range, focusing on affordability and practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Saxo 1.5D utilizes a MacPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a trailing arm torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are discs, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was often included as standard equipment, enhancing safety. The relatively lightweight nature of the Saxo helps to compensate for the modest braking performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Saxo 1.5D was well-received by buyers seeking an economical and reliable city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to the petrol-powered Saxo variants, the 1.5D offered significantly better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for high-mileage drivers. However, the petrol engines provided a more engaging driving experience. The diesel model also tended to be slightly more expensive to maintain due to the complexities of diesel engine technology.
Legacy
The Citroen Saxo 1.5D has proven to be a durable and reliable vehicle. Many examples are still on the road today, testament to the robustness of the engine and chassis. In the used car market, these models are highly sought after by those looking for an affordable and economical runabout. While not a performance icon, the Saxo 1.5D holds a place in automotive history as a practical and efficient supermini that provided affordable transportation for a wide range of drivers.
