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 five-door hatchback, powered by a modest 1.1-liter engine producing 60 horsepower, was designed for affordability and practicality, primarily targeting first-time car buyers, city commuters, and those seeking a low-cost vehicle. It was a key component of Citroen’s strategy to offer a competitive supermini in the European market, sharing its platform (the X15) with the Peugeot 106. The Saxo, in general, aimed to replace the aging Citroen AX, offering a more modern and refined package.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Saxo |
| Generation | Saxo (Phase I, 1996) 5-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 | 5 |
| 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 | 13.3 kg/Hp, 75 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.2 kg/Nm, 108.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 60 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 53.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 87 Nm @ 3800 rpm (64.17 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HDZ 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 | SOHC |
| 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 | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1330 kg (2932.15 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 | 1401 mm (55.16 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1321 mm (52.01 in.) |
| Front overhang | 748 mm (29.45 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 585 mm (23.03 in.) |
| 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 |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 155/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Saxo 1.1 was the HDZ engine, a member of Citroen and Peugeot’s TU1M family of inline-four cylinder engines. This 1124cc unit featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a single-point fuel injection system, a relatively simple and cost-effective technology for the time. The engine produced 60 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 87 Nm (64.17 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized fuel efficiency and reliability over outright performance. The Saxo 1.1 was typically equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, although a four-speed automatic was available as an option, albeit less common. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, further reduced the car’s already modest acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The Saxo 1.1, particularly in automatic guise, was not known for its brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph time hovered around 12.2 seconds, and top speed was limited to around 100 mph. The engine felt strained when pushed hard, and overtaking required careful planning. The automatic transmission, while smooth enough, had relatively long gear ratios, contributing to the sluggish feel. However, around town, the Saxo 1.1 proved to be a comfortable and easy-to-drive vehicle. The light steering and compact dimensions made it ideal for navigating narrow streets and parking in tight spaces. The suspension, while basic, provided a reasonably comfortable ride on most road surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.1-liter Saxo was generally offered in a basic trim level, focusing on essential features. Standard equipment typically 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 included electric windows, air conditioning, and alloy wheels, but these were rarely specified on the base model due to cost considerations. The interior was designed for practicality and durability rather than luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Saxo utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a trailing arm rear suspension. The front brakes were discs, while the rear brakes were drums – a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The suspension setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering light and precise control. The car’s relatively light weight (around 800 kg or 1764 lbs) helped to mitigate the effects of the modest engine power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Saxo 1.1 was well-received as an affordable and practical supermini. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to higher-spec Saxo models, such as the 1.6i or the diesel variants, the 1.1 felt significantly underpowered. However, it offered a lower price point and appealed to a different segment of the market. The Saxo competed directly with other superminis like the Peugeot 106, Renault Clio, and Ford Fiesta. The Saxo 1.1 often undercut its rivals on price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Legacy
The HDZ engine, while not known for its sophistication, proved to be remarkably reliable. Many Saxo 1.1s remain on the road today, testament to the engine’s durability. The Saxo 1.1 is now a popular choice as a first car or a cheap runaround. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are relatively low. While not a performance icon, the Saxo 1.1 holds a place in automotive history as a practical, affordable, and dependable supermini that provided basic transportation for a generation of drivers.
