The Citroën Xsara Break 2.0 HDi (109 hp) represents a practical and efficient offering within the second-generation Xsara Break (N2) range, produced between 2001 and 2003. Positioned as a mid-range variant, it aimed to balance fuel economy with reasonable performance for buyers needing a spacious and versatile estate car. This model was primarily sold in Europe, where the demand for diesel-powered station wagons was significant. It built upon the foundation of the N2 platform, shared with the Peugeot 307, offering a compelling alternative in the competitive compact family car segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Xsara |
| Generation | Xsara Break (N2, Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 HDi (109 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 year |
| End of production | 2003 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 141 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 194 km/h (120.55 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 197.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RHZ DW10ATED |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1265 kg (2788.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1771 kg (3904.39 lbs.) |
| Max load | 506 kg (1115.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 517 l (18.26 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1512 l (53.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Length | 4369 mm (172.01 in.) |
| Width | 1705 mm (67.13 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2540 mm (100 in.) |
| Front track | 1433 mm (56.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1442 mm (56.77 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 949 mm (37.36 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 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 with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Citroën Xsara Break 2.0 HDi (109 hp) was a key variant within the N2 series, produced from 2001 to 2003. The N2 generation Xsara Break, a station wagon version of the popular Xsara hatchback, was designed to offer practicality and versatility. This 2.0 HDi model occupied a middle ground in the lineup, providing a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and cost. It was a direct response to the growing European market demand for diesel-powered estates, offering a compelling alternative to petrol-powered options and competing with models like the Ford Focus Estate and Renault Mégane Estate.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Xsara Break 2.0 HDi is the DW10ATED engine, a 1997cc four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, often referred to by its code RHZ, is a common rail direct injection (CDI) unit. The common rail system, a significant advancement in diesel technology at the time, allowed for more precise fuel delivery and improved combustion efficiency. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque. The 2.0 HDi engine produces 109 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a 5-speed manual gearbox, providing a good balance between fuel economy and drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 HDi engine delivers a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-powered 1.6-liter petrol and diesel options available in the Xsara Break range. While not a sports car, the 109 hp engine provides sufficient power for comfortable cruising and overtaking on motorways. The 250 Nm of torque, available from relatively low engine speeds, provides good in-gear acceleration. The 5-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering smooth gear changes. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter petrol versions, the HDi offers superior fuel economy, but with slightly slower acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel consumption over outright performance. The ride quality is typical of Citroën, emphasizing comfort and absorbing bumps well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 HDi variant of the Xsara Break typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included central locking, electric front windows, power steering, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a CD stereo, and rear electric windows. Higher trim levels, such as the Exclusive, added features like automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and upgraded interior trim. The dashboard layout is typical of early 2000s Citroëns, with a clear and functional design.
Chassis & Braking
The Xsara Break utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, which is cost-effective and provides adequate handling for everyday driving. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing a light and responsive feel. The 195/55 R15 tires offer a good balance between grip and rolling resistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën Xsara Break 2.0 HDi was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy compared to petrol alternatives. Compared to the 1.6 HDi variant, the 2.0 HDi offered a significant performance improvement, making it a more suitable choice for drivers who frequently carry passengers or luggage. Against competitors like the Ford Focus Estate and Renault Mégane Estate, the Xsara Break offered a competitive package in terms of price, fuel economy, and practicality.
Legacy
The DW10ATED engine, found in the Xsara Break 2.0 HDi, is known for its durability and reliability, provided it is properly maintained. Common issues include potential problems with the turbocharger and fuel injectors, but these are generally not widespread. Today, the Xsara Break 2.0 HDi represents an affordable and practical used car option. Its fuel efficiency and spaciousness continue to appeal to buyers looking for a versatile estate car. While not a collector’s item, well-maintained examples are still relatively common on the used car market, offering a dependable and economical mode of transport.
