1989 CITROEN XM 3.0L V6 5MT (200 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Citroen finally replaced the aging CX lineup in 1989 and approached a completely new design language, carried over from the successful BX range, and also reversed the letters in the nameplate, thus resulting in the XM.

While the CX was developed during its independence years, the XM was conceived under Peugeot’s ownership. This was reflected in many aspects, and purists are not very convinced by the results. Moreover, the vehicle’s quality was no longer at the same level as before. Yet, the car sold well thanks to its prestige and unique features, such as the hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension.

With its angular shape and narrow headlights, the XM proved that sharpness might be aerodynamic. It didn’t need the same curved panels and air-sculptured lines on the bodywork to cut through the air like a hot knife through butter. A sculptured line crossed the car from front to back and helped the Bertone design team to neatly integrate the door handles. Yet, due to cost-cutting reasons, these were black, although they should have to match the car’s color. Moreover, there was no option to have them painted. In addition, Peugeot decided that the car had to have a liftback shape and a tailgate in the rear, unlike the CX, which featured a separate trunk lid.

Inside, the angular shapes were kept. Even the steering wheel had a squared center instead of round, like anyone else. Moreover, depending on the trim level, the XM sported buttons on the steering wheel, which was an unusual feature for a 1989 car. The comfortable seats were available with either velour upholstery or leather.

Under the hood, Citroen offered a choice of three gasoline and two diesel engines. The carmaker paired them with either a five-speed manual or an automatic gearbox.