Citroen CX The X era

In 1974, Citroen joins forces with Peugeot under the umbrella of the PSA Group. The CX replaces the DS. Once again, the quai de Javel team demonstrate their know-how and expertise. The qualities of Citroen's new top-of-the-range saloon are recognised all over Europe, since the CX receives the Car of the Year Award, the Style Auto Award, and the Safety Prize.

In 1974, Citroen is forced to rationalise production as a result of the oil shock. Fuel-saving is a priority so, in 1975, the Marque stops production of the SM and the rotary-piston engine GS launched in 1973. For its new models, Citroen dips into Peugeot's store of parts and brings out the LN and Visa in 1976 and 1978 respectively. The GS undergoes extensive modifications to become the GSA at the end of 1979. Three years later, it is replaced by the BX, unveiled at the 1982 Paris Motor Show.

Citroen BX launch Coinciding with the launch of this new middle-of-the-range saloon, the Marque leaves its historic headquarters at quai de Javel and moves to Neuilly, just outside Paris. Here it organises a recovery plan, based on the BX, a car with hydropneumatic suspension and exceptional roadholding and dynamic qualities. Over the next few years, the BX appears in many different versions: a model with a naturally aspirated diesel engine, several estates, a 16-valve GTi version, a model with a turbocharged deisel engine, a permanent four-wheel drive and an automatic. But the version with the strongest impact is the BX Sport. Its modified bodywork and top speed of over 195 Kilimetres per hour make it a car to remember.

After more than ten years in existence, the CX is revamped and becomes the CX Series 2. At the Paris Motor Show the following year, the AX makes its debut, offering a choice of three or five doors, petrol or diesel powerplants, and two or four drive wheels, the AX is an excellent small car that is both light and economical. Its main role is to replace the LNA and Visa, but Citroen also plans for it to gradually take over from the 2CV, which - in the meantime - is pursuing its astonishing career.