Skip advert
Advertisement

Citroen Traction Avant

Front-wheel-drive model pioneered the family car as we know it.

This is one of the most influential cars ever built. By mixing technical innovation with modern dynamics, Citroen’s remarkable Traction Avant set the template for today’s family models.

When it was launched in 1934, it was packed with pioneering technology, from its lightweight all-steel monocoque chassis to its front-wheel-drive layout and independent torsion-bar suspension. Engineers continued to improve it, fitting rack-and-pinion steering, hydraulic brakes and radial ply tyres.

Yet the Traction Avant nearly didn’t happen. Its huge development costs had plunged Citroen deep into the red, leaving a question mark over the firm’s very existence, before Michelin stepped in to complete a buy-out in 1935.

The model’s hi-tech mechanicals were the brainchild of talented engineer André Lefebvre – who went on to design the 2CV and DS – while the gorgeous exterior was the work of Italian stylist Flaminio Bertoni. Early cars had a 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which was underpowered. Stronger 1.5, 1.6 and 1.9-litre units became available and, in 1947, a 2.9-litre six-cylinder was introduced. All were mated to a standard three-speed manual gearbox. There was a
bodystyle for every occasion: as well as the immaculate 1949 Légère (‘Light’) in our pictures, Citroen introduced a larger Normale model, a rakish coupé and even a stylish drop-top roadster. Six and nine-seater variants were also made, while the Commerciale was one of the first-ever hatchbacks.

Our favourite is the standard four-door pictured here. With those perfectly proportioned lines and distinctive Michelin Pilote wheels, the design doesn’t look 75 years old. Open one of the rear-hinged front doors and you’re confronted by a spartan but spacious interior. The driver faces a thin-rimmed, three-spoke steering wheel, and the gearlever sprouts from the plain painted metal dashboard.

Yet while the cabin is basic, the driving experience is anything but. On the move, the Traction Avant feels more sophisticated than some cars half as old. At low speed, the steering is heavy but remarkably precise. Supple suspension enables the Citroen to slice through corners with incredible poise and stability – only the poor straight-line pace betrays the car’s age.

When the final model rolled off the production line in 1957 – more than 23 years after the wraps were taken off the first example – rivals were still trying to catch up. Many of the Traction Avant’s innovations are now common across the industry, which is why it ranks not only as one of the finest Citroens ever made, but one of the greatest cars of all-time.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £4,364 off RRP*Used from £8,595
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,115 off RRP*Used from £13,328
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £2,499 off RRP*Used from £10,695
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £4,500 off RRP*
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal
BMW M5 Touring - front action

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal

The BMW M5 Touring is M car royalty, with a thoroughly impressive PHEV powertrain. It’s our Deal of the Day for 29 June
News
29 Jun 2025
Electric car appeal is at its lowest since 2019
Opinion - Kia EV9 GT

Electric car appeal is at its lowest since 2019

From poor electric car sales to crashes in F1, Mike Rutherford thinks its been a crazy few weeks in the automotive world
Opinion
29 Jun 2025
New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught
Skoda Epiq vRS exclusive image

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught

Every future Skoda will get the go-faster treatment, with the brand also working on making cars sharper and more engaging
News
27 Jun 2025