BX Models and History

The BX was introduced in 1982 as the successor of the GS/GSA series and was replaced in 1994 by the Xantia. The second most popular Citroën after the 2CV—with a total production of 2,315,739 cars—presents Citroën's distinct character in a package somewhat more conventional than the previous Citroëns. This combination gained a much wider acceptance without the need to sacrifice the traditional values: the unique hydropneumatic suspension, the excellent handling and ride comfort, power operated disc brakes on all four wheels, highly aerodynamic bodywork (designed by Bertone) and all those small but important details that make Citroëns stand out from the herd of conventional and dull vehicles.

The BX was initially available with a choice of three petrol engines (1360 and 1580 ccm, 62-88 hp). The engines and gearboxes were also used in Peugeots. Later, the model range was extended to include a 1905 ccm GT version (105 hp), diesel engines (65 hp), Break (Estate) versions. Along with a facelift in 1986 came the GTi (125 hp), followed later by a 16 valve version (160 hp), a turbo diesel (90 hp) and a four wheel drive model.

The interior is light, airy and spacious. The Series I dashboard, in traditional Citroën fashion (introduced with the CX and used on the Visa, GSA and Axel, too) incorporated all controls into two control centers around the steering wheel—known as PRN (Pluie—Route—Nuit or Rain—Road—Night). This layout was dropped in favor of a more conventional layout with the introduction of the Series II.