The Citroën Xsara 1.6 i 16V Automatic, produced between February 2003 and 2004, represents a mid-range offering within the second generation (N1, Phase III) of the Xsara compact hatchback. Positioned as a more accessible alternative to the sportier 2.0i 16V models and the fuel-efficient diesel variants, this version aimed to provide a balance of comfort, convenience, and reasonable performance for the European market. The Phase III update brought subtle styling revisions and refinements to the interior, solidifying the Xsara’s position as a practical and well-rounded family car.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | Xsara |
| Generation | Xsara (N1, Phase III) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i 16V (109 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2003 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg, 25.9 UK mpg, 9.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 180 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 D4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp, 93 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 125.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 147 Nm @ 4000 rpm (108.42 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | TU5JP4 |
| Engine displacement | 1587 cm3 (96.84 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78.5 mm (3.09 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.25 l (3.43 US qt | 2.86 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1172 kg (2583.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1698 kg (3743.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 526 kg (1159.63 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 | 595 kg (1311.75 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Length | 4188 mm (164.88 in.) |
| Width | 1705 mm (67.13 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2014 mm (79.29 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 | 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 | 4 gears, automatic 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 1.6 i 16V Automatic is the TU5JP4 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, a staple in many PSA Group vehicles of the era, features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain operating 16 valves. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved combustion efficiency. The engine produces 109 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 147 Nm (108 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The automatic transmission is a four-speed unit, designed to provide smooth and convenient gear changes. While not known for its sportiness, this transmission was favored by buyers prioritizing ease of driving, particularly in urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6L automatic Xsara delivers a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 13.5 seconds, and top speed is around 119 mph. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, lacks the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or a more modern automatic with additional gears. Gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy and relaxed cruising rather than spirited performance. Compared to the 2.0i 16V, the 1.6L automatic feels noticeably slower, especially during overtaking maneuvers. However, it offers better fuel economy and a more forgiving driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 i 16V Automatic typically came equipped with features such as power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an RDS radio. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Higher trim levels might include features like alloy wheels, a trip computer, and upgraded audio systems. The Phase III update brought minor interior refinements, including revised dashboard trim and improved seat fabrics.
Chassis & Braking
The Xsara utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The suspension is tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën Xsara 1.6 i 16V Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family car. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reasonable fuel economy. However, the engine was often criticized for lacking outright power, and the automatic transmission was seen as somewhat dated compared to competitors. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6L petrol offered less fuel efficiency but a quieter and smoother driving experience. Against rivals like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf, the Xsara offered a distinctive French flair and a competitive price point.
Legacy
The TU5JP4 engine is known for its reliability and durability, provided it receives regular maintenance. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not the most sophisticated, is also generally reliable. Today, the Xsara 1.6 i 16V Automatic can be found as an affordable used car. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are relatively low. While not a collector’s item, it remains a practical and dependable choice for those seeking a budget-friendly hatchback.
