Citroen C-Elysee: prices and specifications
2 generations Country of origin: France
Citroen C-Elysee: model overview
The Citroen C-Elysee is a sedan distinguished by the longest wheelbase in the brand's C-segment. The model is a "twin" of the Peugeot 301, introduced slightly earlier — the cars are identical in everything except exterior styling. The interior equipment includes comfort systems: from an air conditioner with a digital display to an MP3 stereo with Bluetooth support. For the Ukrainian market, an increased ground clearance, reinforced body, and additional underbody protection are provided. The car is equipped with petrol engines VTi 72 and VTi 115, which work in conjunction with a manual, robotic, or automatic transmission. Drive — front.
History
The Citroën C-Elysée is a compact sedan initially aimed at the Chinese market. Its production was organized at the joint venture Dongfeng Peugeot-Citroën Automobile.
The first generation of the model, named Elysée, was produced from 2002 to 2013 and sold exclusively in China. The car was developed in China on the Citroën ZX platform, with many parts borrowed from the Citroën Xsara and Citroën Saxo for unification.
For fans of a sporty style, the Elysée VTS version was offered, which was painted only in red.
In 2008, the model underwent a facelift and was presented on April 8 at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. The changes mainly affected the front and rear parts of the body.
In March 2013, the second generation debuted — the Citroën C-Elysée. Unlike its predecessor, the new model was sold outside China. Assembly was established at the Citroën plant in Vigo, Spain. The model has a twin brother, the Peugeot 301, with differences only in badges and minor nuances of lighting and front panel design.
The C-Elysée is the brand's first international model created from scratch. Developers studied the needs of customers looking for a primary and often only family car — reliable and practical. Therefore, special attention was paid to the spacious interior and trunk volume. At the same time, the model embodies Citroen style, combining new characteristics with features inherent in all brand cars.
The model is aimed at markets in almost all countries of the world, which requires a special approach to technical characteristics. The car can be operated in any climatic and road conditions. Accordingly, materials were selected: seat fabric and paintwork are characterized by increased wear resistance.
According to the developers, the C-Elysee should appeal to anyone who drives it at least once. It is a real Citroen — beautiful, spacious, comfortable, and affordable, combining the qualities needed by demanding buyers for a small budget.
Exterior
The C-Elysee is styled in line with the latest Citroen range. The car does not look exotic, but it attracts attention and is unlike classmates from other brands (except the Peugeot 301).
The aggressive front bumper reflects modern automotive fashion trends and harmoniously combines with the radiator grille. The relief of the side panels emphasizes swiftness and sportiness. The main thing is that, unlike classmates, there is not the slightest hint of budgetness in the car: neither in appearance nor in the quality of finishing materials. Chrome details and lighting are executed not so much expensively as tastefully.
Interior
The interior is modest but practical and ergonomic. In expensive trim levels, everything necessary is present. The seat upholstery materials correspond to the car's price, but they are very wear-resistant. The C-Elysee is comfortable both for short trips and long journeys.
The interior dimensions are impressive for its class — the car is spacious. The trunk volume is a substantial 506 liters, and the folding rear seat back allows it to be increased.
Drivers of any height will find a comfortable seating position — the range of adjustments is sufficient. Moderate seat firmness and good lateral support for the backrest and cushion are noted.
The rear sofa is also spacious: passengers are comfortable here, with plenty of legroom.
Engine and transmission
On the Ukrainian market, the Citroën C-Elysée is offered with two petrol engines: VTi 72 with a volume of 1.2 L and VTi 120 with a volume of 1.6 L, as well as a diesel HDi 90 with a volume of 1.6 L.
With the VTi 72 engine, a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox works.
The VTi 120 series engines were created jointly with BMW. With a volume of 1.6 L, they produce 120 hp. They are paired with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
The HDi 90 diesel allows significant fuel savings but is available only with a five-speed manual gearbox.
Safety
The base configuration includes two airbags.
In the EuroNCAP crash test, the model showed decent but not outstanding results: 12 points out of 16 for frontal offset impact, 8 out of 8 for side impact, and 5.7 points for side impact against a pole.
Child safety in special seats is rated at 11.9 points — this is a very decent indicator.
Features
Behind the wheel of the C-Elysée, there is no feeling of budgetness. The car is monolithic, steering reactions are precise, and feedback is at a decent level. During sharp maneuvering, the car responds without delays; the driver gets exactly the effort and reaction they expect.
The body rolls within acceptable limits and does not frighten either an inexperienced driver or passengers. At high speed, the car does not require steering corrections even on poor road surfaces. The only thing that may bother is knocking in the suspension when driving over bumps, although the suspension is energy-intensive and does not allow breakdowns.
The cabin sound insulation is at a good level: at a speed of 140 km/h, you can talk to a passenger without raising your voice — both in the front and rear rows.
Popularity in Ukraine
The C-Elysée quickly gained popularity in the budget sedan class and became one of the best-selling models in Ukraine (excluding Chinese brands).
In addition, it is the first model with the maximum number of cars sold with diesel engines. According to the autoportal.ua sales rating, it is in the TOP-10 in its class.
Our verdict
The C-Elysée can be called a car that destroys consumer stereotypes about the Citroën brand. Thanks to it, the company increased sales and market share. Owners note the car's reliability and the absence of complaints. Operating costs are at an average level. Overall, it is a modern European car with an excellent price/quality ratio.
