Citroen C-XR Concept unveiled in Beijing

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.

Read all the latest from the 2014 Beijing Motor Show by clicking here.