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C3 Lumière Concept-car
The Company in 1998
- On 21 January, Jean-Martin Folz unveils the new organization of the PSA Peugeot Citroën group, illustrated by the slogan "two marques, one group". Peugeot and Citroën must affirm their status as full-range carmakers, each with a strong identity and global presence.
- In February, an independent certification agency in France places the Xantia at the top of its list of most reliable vehicles. In vehicle checks, the Xantia has the lowest percentage of second inspections: 3.21% of the 52,040 Xantias tested. The association of Irish journalists names the Xsara "1998 Car of the Year" for its technological features, performance levels, style and value for money.
- The Automotive Hall of Fame welcomes André Citroën on 13 October. This foundation was set up in 1939 in Michigan to commemorate the history of the automobile and pay tribute to the figures who have ensured its enduring success. André Citroën is the first Frenchman to enter the Hall of Fame, where he joins other illustrious figures such as Henry Ford, Karl Benz and Rudolf Diesel.
- Annual production : 967 300 vehicles.
The models in 1998
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Xsara Coupé
- In January, Citroën releases the Xsara coupé, which, like the rest of the range, comes in three levels of trim: X, SX and Exclusive. Five petrol engines are on offer, ranging from 1.4i 75 bhp to 2.0i 16V 16 7bhp. Two diesel powerplants are available (1.9 D 68 bhp and 90 bhp).
Xsara estate : since 1998
- Citroën's M1 segment offering expands with the arrival of the Xsara Estate in March. Its main characteristics are a vast loading volume and all-round adaptability. A dual-fuel (petrol/LPG) system available on both saloon and estate models illustrates Citroën's determination to reconcile the car with environmental protection.
- Citroën looks to the future with the C3 concept car. Designed by Citroën's Creative Styling Centre, the C3 offers innovative and multi-purpose architecture in terms of functions and interior layout. It is a B-segment saloon with four symmetrically op-ening side doors, a sunroof made of glass strips and a rear hatch that opens "portfolio" style.
- The Paris Motor Show celebrates its 100th anniversary in October.Citroën unveils the Xsara Picasso.
In the news in 1998
- The 16th Soccer World Cup is organized in France. On 12 July, France beats Brazil in the final by 3 goals to 0.
- In September, Asia's financial crisis spreads to the world's stockmarkets.
- In 1998, we said goodbye to Haroun Tazieff (volcanologist), Ernst Jünger (German writer), Eric Tabarly (French sailor), Lounès Matoub (Kabyle singer), Octavio Paz (Mexican writer and winner of the Nobel Prize for literature), Maurice Schumann (former spokesman for De Gaulle and former minister), César (sculptor) and Frank Sinatra.