What engine does Citroen use?
Citroën uses a mix of petrol, diesel, and electric powertrains, all developed within the Stellantis group. There isn’t a single engine that defines the brand across its current lineup.
Since the Stellantis merger, Citroën shares engine families with its sibling brands (Peugeot, Opel/Vauxhall, Fiat, and others). The main options today span PureTech petrol engines, BlueHDi diesels, and electric or hybrid powertrains. Exact engines vary by model, market, and year, with electrification becoming progressively more prominent in new products.
Engine families and platforms
Below is a breakdown of the principal engine families that power Citroën vehicles today, along with how they fit into the brand’s lineup.
Petrol engines: PureTech
Citroën relies on the PureTech family for its petrol line, typically in small to mid-size cars. These turbocharged three-cylinder engines are designed to balance efficiency with liveliness for everyday driving.
- PureTech 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engines commonly used in city cars, with outputs roughly in the range of 68–90 horsepower depending on tuning.
- PureTech 1.2-litre turbocharged engines used in compact models, with outputs typically around 100–130 horsepower.
- In some markets there are larger or higher-tuned 1.3-litre PureTech variants used in light hatchbacks and small crossovers, generally around 130 horsepower in higher specs.
PureTech engines provide a balance of low-tonnage weight, efficiency, and acceptable performance for Citroën’s small to family-oriented models.
Diesel engines: BlueHDi
For customers who prioritise long-range efficiency, BlueHDi diesels remain part of Citroën’s lineup, especially on models and markets where diesel demand remains strong.
- BlueHDi 1.5-litre diesel engines, common in newer Citroën models, typically offered in lower to mid-power grades (roughly 75–102 horsepower) with an emphasis on torque and fuel economy.
- BlueHDi 1.6-litre diesel engines, used in various older and some current models, delivering around 100–120 horsepower and strong highway efficiency.
Diesel options aim at drivers who cover more highway miles or seek higher torque for practical tasks, though overall diesel offerings have narrowed as electrification expands.
Electric and hybrid powertrains
Electric and plug-in/ hybrid options reflect Citroën’s pivot toward electrification within the Stellantis framework. The brand offers fully electric models as well as hybrid configurations on select lines.
- Fully electric models built on Stellantis’ e-Drive family (for example, passenger cars like the ë-C4 and related models). These use a front-mounted electric motor with battery capacity that supports practical daily driving, and power figures typically in the mid-range (approximately 100–136 horsepower or equivalent) with battery sizes around 40–60 kWh depending on model and trim; ranges vary by configuration and conditions.
- Plug-in hybrid variants on certain models (such as C5 X Hybrid or others in the Citroën range) pair a petrol engine with an electric motor to offer limited electric-only travel and combined efficiency gains.
- Electric light commercial and van variants (such as electric versions of Citroën’s van lineup) using the same core e-Drive technology with configurations tailored to payload and urban-use needs.
Electric and hybrid powertrains illustrate Citroën’s shift toward lower-emission mobility, with multiple body styles and markets receiving electrified options.
Model-specific notes
The exact engine installed on a given Citroën model depends on the market, year, and trim level. Some markets may still feature older diesel options, while newer or redesigned models emphasize PureTech petrol and electrified alternatives. To verify the engine in a specific car, consult the official spec sheet or the local dealer.
Summary
- Citroën uses multiple engines rather than one: PureTech petrol, BlueHDi diesel, and electric/hybrid powertrains.
- The brand shares engine families with other Stellantis brands, reflecting a common platform approach.
- Electric and plug-in options are increasingly common across Citroën’s lineup, with ongoing electrification expansion.
For the most accurate information on a particular model or market, check the official Citroën specifications or contact a local dealer. The engine choice is tied to model year and regional regulations, and Citroën continues to evolve its powertrain options in line with Stellantis’ broader strategy.
