The Citroën Saxo 1.1, produced between September 1999 and June 2003 as part of the Phase II refresh of the Saxo model range, represented the entry point into Citroën’s supermini lineup. This 3-door hatchback, powered by the 1.1-liter HFX (TU1JP) engine producing 60 horsepower, was aimed at budget-conscious buyers and those seeking a simple, economical city car. It occupied the lowest tier of the Saxo range, sitting below the 1.4, 1.6, and diesel variants, and played a significant role in Citroën’s sales volume in Europe, particularly as a first car for young drivers or as an affordable second vehicle for families.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Saxo |
| Generation | Saxo (Phase II, 1999) 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.1 (60 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 1999 |
| End of production | June, 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 147 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 164 km/h (101.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 60 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 94 Nm @ 3500 rpm (69.33 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HFX TU1JP |
| 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 | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt, 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt, 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 805 kg (1774.72 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1310 kg (2888.06 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 (braked) | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 440 kg (970.03 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 3718 mm (146.38 in.) |
| Width | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Height | 1360 mm (53.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2385 mm (93.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1370 mm (53.94 in.) |
| Rear track | 1305 mm (51.38 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | 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 is the HFX engine, a member of Citroën/Peugeot’s TU series of inline-four cylinder petrol engines. This 1124cc unit features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing adequate, though not exceptional, combustion control. The engine’s relatively simple design prioritized reliability and fuel efficiency over outright performance. The Saxo 1.1 was exclusively offered with a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and contribution to the car’s overall economy. The transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency, with a relatively long final drive.
Driving Characteristics
The 60 horsepower output of the 1.1-liter engine translates to modest performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 14.2 seconds, and top speed is around 102 mph. In real-world driving, the Saxo 1.1 feels best suited to urban environments and slower country roads. The engine requires frequent gear changes to maintain momentum, particularly when overtaking. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 and 1.6-liter versions, the 1.1 feels noticeably slower, but its lighter weight and responsive steering make it enjoyable to drive around town. The five-speed manual transmission is light and precise, enhancing the driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Saxo 1.1 was typically equipped with basic, but functional, features. Standard equipment included power steering, central locking, and a driver’s airbag. Interior trim was typically cloth upholstery in a simple pattern. Options were limited, but could include electric front windows and a radio/cassette player. The overall interior design was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Saxo 1.1 utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a trailing arm rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, particularly on smoother roads. The front brakes are discs, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure typical of entry-level models. The steering is a rack and pinion system, offering precise control and a relatively tight turning circle. The car’s relatively light weight contributes to its nimble handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Saxo 1.1 was well-received as an affordable and economical city car. Critics praised its low running costs, nimble handling, and practicality. However, its lack of power was often noted. Compared to the 1.4-liter Saxo, the 1.1 offered significantly lower fuel economy but also considerably less performance. The 1.4 was often considered a better all-rounder for those willing to spend a little more. The diesel variants offered even better fuel economy, but at a higher purchase price and with potentially higher maintenance costs.
Legacy
The Citroën Saxo 1.1 has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable car. Many examples are still on the road today, testament to the robustness of the HFX engine and the overall build quality. In the used car market, the 1.1 remains an affordable option for first-time drivers or those seeking a cheap and cheerful runabout. While not a performance icon, the Saxo 1.1 holds a place in automotive history as a practical and economical supermini that provided affordable transportation for a generation of drivers.
