Citroen CX Price Guide

The Citroën CX replaced the DS in 1974 and won the first-ever European Car of the Year award, recognition for a car that combined the DS’s hydropneumatic sophistication with a more modern body and improved practicality. The CX was the last Citroën to use the full range of DS-era technologies before the PSA takeover began the long process of normalisation.

The Car

The CX used hydropneumatic suspension with self-levelling, power brakes, and the characteristic variable-assist steering that reduced effort as speed increased. A range of engines covered 1,985cc through 2,347cc petrol and 2,500cc diesel, with the GTi turbo producing 168bhp as the performance flagship. The concave rear window and the dashboard’s single-spoke steering wheel reflected Bertone’s design influence. The CX Prestige stretched wheelbase was used as a presidential and ministerial car in France. The GTi Turbo 2 of the final years is the most collectable.

What Goes Wrong

LHM hydraulics as per the DS; sphere condition, pump pressure, and correct fluid specification are the priorities. The variable-assist steering can feel vague at speed when spheres deteriorate. Rust in the lower body and particularly around the rear light clusters. The GTi Turbo engine requires careful maintenance of the turbocharger lubrication.

Buying

The GTi Turbo 2 estate is the most desirable CX. The 2.5 diesel is the practical choice. The Citroën Car Club CX section and dedicated CX specialists provide good support. Values have been rising steadily. The XM that replaced it continued the hydropneumatic tradition.