SMART & SENSIBLE (some text hidden) --NONE--

BY JONATHAN CROUCH

Introductionword count: 72

It seems hard to imagine the Citroen family without an Escort-sized car, but the truth is that until 1991, the French concern didn't have one. The ZX changed all that and was an instant success in Britain. It heralded a new era of well-built, quality Citroen hatches; the larger Xantia and ultimately the latest Saxo have followed that tradition. Now, ZXs are plentiful on the used market and are a solid buy.

Modelsword count: 76

Models Covered: ZX 3/5 DOOR HATCHBACK - 1991- NOVEMBER 1997ZX ESTATE - MARCH 1994-APRIL 1998: (1.4 3 & 5dr Hatchback, Estate [Reflex, Avantage, Aura, Leader, SX] / 1.6i 5dr Hatchback [Avantage, Aura] / 1.8i 3 & 5dr Hatchback [Furio, Aura, SX] / 1.9i 5dr Hatchback [Volcane] / 2.0i 3 & 5dr Hatchback [Volcane, 16v]/ 1.9 D 3& 5dr Hatchback, Estate [Reflex, Avantage, Aura, Leader] / 1.9TD 3 & 5dr Hatchback, Estate [Avantage, Aura, Volcane, Leader, SX])

Historyword count: 207

The original 'ZX Collection' was launched in June 1991 with 1.4 and 1.6-litre petrol engines, plus a 1.9-litre injection unit for the sporty Volcane. Buyers chose between Reflex, Avantage, Aura and Volcane trim levels. A 1.9-litre normally aspirated diesel followed in the September of that year and a turbo diesel was launched the following summer. In the autumn of 1992, three-door models arrived (including a potent 16v 2.0-litre version) and the Volcane's 1.9-litre engine was replaced with a 2.0-litre unit. A so-called 'warm hatch' Furio model, powered by a 1.8-litre petrol engine was announced and the same engine was made available in plusher Aura version of more standard five-door models. Estate models arrived in May 1994, with a choice of 1.4-litre petrol or 1.9-litre normally aspirated or turbocharged powerplants. There were many special editions, but these are rarely worth much more than £150 over normal book price. The range received airbags and a minor facelift in 1994. In the autumn of 1996, the range was rationalised, with just two levels of trim - Leader and SX. The hatchback range was replaced in November 1997 by the stylish new Xsara (pronounced 'Sa-Ra'), though the estates continued into Spring 1998 before they too were replaced by a Xsara version.

What You Getword count: 63

From a driver's point of view, this was one of the best-handling compact family hatches around in its day. It may be no oil painting to look at, but the ZX is practical and well built. Also, due to that conventionally sprung suspension, there are none of the traditional Citroen worries about complicated mechanics and astronomical service bills. It still rides well though.

To see the full road test text contact us on 0330 0020 227