The Citroen Xsara 2.0 HDi (109 hp) represents a significant offering within the second phase (N1) of the Xsara model range, produced between 2001 and 2003. Positioned as a mid-range variant, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and economical family hatchback. This version of the Xsara was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel engines held a substantial market share, and offered a compelling alternative to gasoline-powered competitors. It built upon the foundation of the original Xsara, which was jointly developed with Peugeot (resulting in the Peugeot 307) and shared the PSA Group’s platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Xsara |
| Generation | Xsara (N1, Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 HDi (109 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 138 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 205.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RHZ DW10ATED |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1216 kg (2680.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1736 kg (3827.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 408 l (14.41 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1190 l (42.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 615 kg (1355.84 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Length | 4188 mm (164.88 in.) |
| Width | 1705 mm (67.13 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2540 mm (100 in.) |
| Front track | 1433 mm (56.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1442 mm (56.77 in.) |
| Front overhang | 880 mm (34.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 768 mm (30.24 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Xsara 2.0 HDi is the DW10ATED engine, a four-cylinder diesel engine displacing 1997cc. This engine, designated with the code RHZ, is a common-rail direct injection diesel, a technology that significantly improved fuel efficiency and reduced noise compared to earlier diesel designs. The DW10ATED features a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 109 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1750 rpm. The engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The common-rail system, supplied by Bosch, injects fuel at extremely high pressure, ensuring efficient combustion. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 HDi engine in the Xsara provides a good balance of performance and economy. While not a sports car, the 109 hp output and 250 Nm of torque deliver adequate acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in around 10.9 seconds. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it particularly well-suited for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6 HDi variants, the 2.0 HDi offers noticeably more punch. However, it doesn’t match the performance of the petrol-powered 2.0i 16V. The five-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing smooth gear changes. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, but still allow for responsive acceleration when needed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 HDi variant of the Xsara typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included central locking, electric front windows, power steering, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a CD stereo, and rear electric windows. The trim level often dictated the availability of these options, with higher trims offering more features as standard.
Chassis & Braking
The Xsara N1 phase II utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam, a cost-effective and space-saving solution. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The hydraulic power steering offers light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen Xsara 2.0 HDi was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical interior. However, some critics noted that the interior design was somewhat dated compared to newer competitors. Compared to the 1.6 HDi, the 2.0 HDi offered a significant performance upgrade, making it a more appealing option for drivers who frequently travel long distances or carry passengers. In terms of reliability, the DW10ATED engine is generally considered to be robust, but like all diesel engines, it can be susceptible to issues with the fuel injection system and turbocharger if not properly maintained.
Legacy
The Citroen Xsara 2.0 HDi has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle. Many examples are still on the road today, testament to the quality of the engineering and construction. In the used car market, the 2.0 HDi variant is often sought after for its combination of fuel efficiency and performance. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for age-related issues, such as wear and tear on the suspension components and the possibility of problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if the vehicle has not been regularly serviced. Overall, the Xsara 2.0 HDi remains a practical and economical choice for those seeking a used family hatchback.
