CITROEN Xsara Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Citroen introduced a facelifted version for the Xsara in 2000, and it tried to improve the car’s image and its drivetrains as well.

In the compact segment, Citroen was not such a big player. Still, it tried to attract customers who asked for more than four wheels and a roof over their heads. It placed its bets on the design and also improved the car’s technical qualities.

While the non-facelifted Xsara showed a pair of slim headlights, delightful to see at day but not that good in illuminating the road ahead, the facelifted version fixed one issue and messed the other. The new design language of the French carmaker imposed taller, tear-shaped headlights. They might not be as good-looking as the older ones, but at least they did a better job during night driving. Along with those, the carmaker re-worked the wrapped-around front bumper, which received a new grille, but lost its fog lights. Depending on the trim level, it got body-colored rubber protections or unpainted ones. At the back, the reversing lights received smoked lenses that blended into the taillights. Its five-door configuration remained and the Kamm back design were already known, but not that much appreciated.

Inside, the main difference was for the sound system, which got a CD player and wood inserts on the dashboard, center stack, and center console depending on the trim level.

As usual with facelifts, the technical platform remained the same, although Citroen improved the engine’s lineup with a 1.6-liter 16 valves unit for the gasoline versions and upgraded the 2.0-liter turbodiesel powerplants.

Citroen needed a car to replace the ZX in its lineup, and the answer was the Xsara, a car built in a few shapes that rocked the French automotive market in the late '90s.

Already under Peugeot ownership, Citroen still wanted to create unique-looking vehicles, but it had to do that on its owner's terms. To do that, the carmaker used the same ZX platform, but the overall design was completely new. Moreover, it was available as a coupe, a hatchback, a sedan, and a station wagon.

In its five-door, liftback-style version, the Xsara featured a narrow front end with slim headlights and a chromed slat on the grille. To help cool the engine, the carmaker added a second grille on the lower apron, flanked by two optional foglamps. The car's profile revealed more rounded shapes, inspired by the bio-design trend. At the back, the sloped liftgate could open and reveal a decent loading area.

Inside, the curved-design language was present on the dashboard. The instrument cluster was extended and combined with the center stack, where the carmaker placed the audio controls above the HVAC dials. The Xsara offered room for five adults on two bucket seats at the front and on the split-folding rear bench, although the car offered limited legroom for full grownups.

Under the hood, the French carmaker installed a choice of seven engines ranging between 68 PS (67 hp) and 135 PS (130 hp). They were paired to a five-speed manual, while selected versions received a four-speed automatic.