Citroen Xsara & Xsara Picasso

“Just when you knew what to expect from a 5 door hatchback, Along came the new Citroen Xsara” was how the model was launched in November 1997.

The Xsara (available in X, LX, SX and Exclusive trim, as well as VTR and VTS coupes) was a direct replacement for the ground breaking , but ageing ZX from which it used a modified floorpan.  Whilst relatively plain looking, it was sold on 4 main virtues - Quality, Comfort, Safety and Driving pleasure.

In a step forward from the ZX and embracing new technological items such as Automatic windscreen wipers, Lateral airbags, Pollen air filtration and heat reflective glass were fitted as standard on many models .  In February 1998 the range was expanded to include 3 door Coupe models and in April  Estates.

Citroen have always been at the cutting edge of Diesel Technology, and in 1999 the Xsara was one of the first models to be fitted with the latest HDi common rail Diesels which combined high efficiency with near petrol performance.

Probably the most important development was the introduction of the Xsara Picasso in July 2000, initially in LX and SX guises, with a choice of 2 petrol and 1 diesel engines.

Like Citroens of old many new features were introduced, such as Multiplex Technology minimising the electrical wiring necessary, 'guide you home' headlights, digital interactive dashboard, NCAP 4 star crash test safety and much more.

The range has subsequently been expanded to include Exclusive and Desire models, which in the recent Series 2 it has proved so popular it has replaced the SX variant.

Whether it is due to Citroen keen pricing policy or just sheer value for money, the Picasso has been a marketing success with more than 125,000 having been sold to date, outselling the competition in many cases by 2 to 1.

The Xsara provided Citroen with their return to motorsport, in the World Rally Championship. The first year (2003) brought considerable success with Citroen winning the Manufacturers Championship, along with its leading driver coming second in the Drivers Championship, thus proving the cars strength and pace.

2004 has brought more successes - and like any good wine the Xsara World Rally Car has just kept getting better and better - to the extent that it is hard to believe that it is the only Citroen's second full year in WRC. Despite concerns that the car was becoming aged, the team has continued to deliver results leading both the Driver and Manufacture championships at time of press (July 04)

Although in production for virtually 7 years, the Xsara in still represents excellent value for money. All good things must come to an end, though, and all models bar the Picasso are due to be replaced in late 2004 by the C4.