Citroen C-XR Concept unveiled in Beijing

Citroen reveals C-XR concept in Beijing. Built in partnership with DongFeng, it’s an SUV for the Chinese domestic market

Citroen has shown a new small SUV concept at Beijing Motor Show. The C-XR Concept previews a new SUV developed jointly by Citroen and its Chinese partner DongFeng Motor Group. The eventual production version will aim to cash in on China’s rapidly expanding crossover SUV market.

The C-XR is badged as a Citroen and features styling cues we’ve come to associate with the French manufacturer. The wide chrome grille with its double chevron kinks dominates a front end that also sports headlight clusters with distinctive LED daytime running lights. Around at the back, 3D-effect rear light clusters and a chrome finished exhaust catch the eye.

Despite being only front-wheel-drive the Citroen C-XR gives more than a passing nod to all-terrain ability with raised ground clearance, all-season tyres and various body-protection add-ons. The Grip Control technology works electronically to maximise traction at the front wheels and should make short work of gravel car parks. The 4.26m overall length makes the C-XR smaller than a Nissan Qashqai but an impressively long 2.65m wheelbase ensures that interior space can be maximised. 

Power in the Citroen C-XR comes from PSA’s 1.6-litre THP turbocharged petrol engine with Stop&Start technology thrown in to boost economy and control CO2 emissions. Citroen’s latest generation automatic gearbox also helps keep fuel consumption down.