The hatchback 5 doors Citroen Saxo 1996 - 2004 year modification 1.6 AT (88 hp)

Citroen Saxo 1.6 AT (88 hp): A Compact Hatchback with French Flair

The Citroen Saxo, a quintessential French hatchback, is a car that embodies practicality, simplicity, and affordability. Produced between 1996 and 2004, this 5-door hatchback belongs to the B-class segment, making it an ideal choice for urban commuting and small families. With its compact dimensions, efficient engine, and user-friendly features, the Saxo has carved out a niche for itself in the used car market. Let’s dive into what makes this car stand out, its strengths, and areas where it might fall short.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the Citroen Saxo 1.6 AT is powered by a 1.6-liter petrol engine that delivers 88 horsepower. While it may not be a powerhouse, the engine is reliable and well-suited for city driving. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 17 seconds, which is adequate for its class, and it reaches a top speed of 166 km/h. Fuel efficiency is one of its strong points, with a combined fuel consumption of 7.9 liters per 100 kilometers. The automatic transmission, though limited to 3 gears, ensures smooth and hassle-free driving, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Design and Practicality

The Saxo’s design is simple yet functional. Its compact dimensions (3718 mm in length, 1595 mm in width, and 1379 mm in height) make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while the 5-door configuration adds to its practicality. The interior is spacious enough for a car of its size, offering a trunk capacity of 280 liters, which can be expanded to 953 liters by folding the rear seats. The ground clearance of 120 mm ensures decent handling on uneven roads, and the 14-inch wheels provide a comfortable ride.

Engine and Transmission

The 1.6-liter inline-4 engine features a distributed injection system and produces 88 horsepower at 5600 rpm, with a maximum torque of 135 Nm at 3000 rpm. While it lacks turbocharging, the engine is known for its durability and low maintenance costs. The 3-speed automatic transmission, though not the most advanced, is reliable and easy to use, making the Saxo a great option for those who prefer automatic driving.

Suspension and Braking

The Citroen Saxo is equipped with an independent front suspension and a semi-independent torsion rear suspension, which provides a balanced and comfortable ride. The front disc brakes and rear drum brakes offer adequate stopping power for a car of this size and weight. While the braking system may not be cutting-edge, it is reliable and effective for everyday driving conditions.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick summary of the Citroen Saxo’s strengths and weaknesses:

• Pros: Affordable, fuel-efficient, compact and easy to park, reliable engine, spacious trunk for its class, and user-friendly automatic transmission.
• Cons: Limited acceleration and top speed, outdated 3-speed automatic transmission, basic interior features, and drum brakes at the rear.

Conclusion

The Citroen Saxo 1.6 AT is a practical and economical choice for those seeking a reliable used car. Its compact size, decent fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs make it a great option for city dwellers and first-time car owners. While it may not offer the latest technology or high-performance capabilities, it excels in simplicity and affordability. If you’re looking for a no-frills hatchback that gets the job done, the Citroen Saxo is worth considering.