The Citroen CX was introduced at the 1974 Paris Motor Show and was produced from 1974 to 1991 with nearly 1.2 million examples built during its 16-year lifespan. In 1975, it was voted European Car of the Year. Its name, 'CX,' was derived from the symbol Cx for drag coefficient in reference to the vehicle's aerodynamic design. Body styles included a four-door fastback, a station wagon, and a long-wheelbase model built on the estate chassis.

The Citroen CX served as a replacement for the DS models which had been in production for two decades. They featured the powerplant from the DS, steering components from the Maserati powered SM, and styling by Robert Opron. The CX line utilized the hydropneumatic suspension featured on the DS but was more compact and aerodynamic.

There were three powertrain options available. The 'Normale' CX was equipped with a 1985cc version of the four-cylinder engine found in the DS. The 'Economique' version of the car was also equipped with the engine found in the 'Normale' but the gear ratios were changed, along with the final drive ratio, in efforts to improve the fuel economy. The 'CX 2200' were given a 2,175cc engine fitted with twin carburetors for customers who were seeking more power.

By 1979, the CX 2000 line, which included the CX 2200 2.2-liter version, was replaced by the Reflex and Athena models which were created by Peugeot, Renault, and Volvo.

by Dan Vaughan