1986 Citroën BX article about the facelifted range

The BX is continuing its evolution. The whole line, all 22 versions (with seven motors from 60 to 125 hp) is receiving some coach work modifications and a renovated interior (new instrument panel, refitted passenger compartment).

Beginning July 1, 1986, all the BX models are benefitting from inside and outside modifications.

THE STYLE IS ASSERTING ITSELF
The work on the outside appearance of the BX models has moved them toward a still more definite aesthetic. The line has been made richer in the sense of balance, power and quality.

The coachwork has been slightly remodelled front and back, particularly the broadening of the front and rear wings, the new front turning signals, protruding on the sides, more encompassing front and rear bumper guards colour imbued (the station wagons keep the model 1986 rear bumper guard), a pebble guard on the front part of the rear wings, new outside rear view mirrors (mechanical or electrical control according to the version), door inside lined with sound insulating sheets. Since the beginning of the year, all the metal coachwork (with the exception of the roof which is not vulnerable) is of hot galvanized sheet, which provides a radical corrosion protection.

A NEW PASSENGER COMPARTMENT

The inside modifications are much more extensive. They include a new instrument panel, a new set of round dials, controls on shanks positioned under the steering wheel (replacing the “satellites”) performing the following functions: to the left, horn and headlight flasher, turning signal control with steering wheel slaving, parking lights, low beams, high beams; to the right windscreen washer-wiper, two speeds, with intermittence. New switches are located on the instrument panel vizor, controlling the rear window heater, the rearfog lights, the rear window wiper-washer and distress signal.

Control switches for the electric window regulators located in the front door panels, a new single branch steering wheel, new door panel composition, many storage spaces have been provided.

Two new engines (diesel 1769 cc and petrol 1905 cc with electronic injection) and five new versions for the BX 1987 line. Among them, a top of the line “Touring Sedan” : the BX 19 GTi.             

Two new engines appear at the two extremes of the BX line: a 1769cc diesel XUD7 engine which is designed for 60 hp at 4600 rpm with a torque of 11 m.kg at 2000 rpm, which is installed on the BX D(it is distinguished from the other BX diesels by its engine, its transmission and its finish work); a 1905 cc petrol X U engine with electronic injection which is designed for 125 hp at 5500 rpm with a torque of 17.8 m.kg at 4500 rpm. This engine is installed in the BX 19 GTi.

FIVE NEW VERSIONS

A total of five new versions fill out the 1987 model year line which now has 22 versions, 14 berlines, based on 5 levels of finish work and 7 engines (5 petrol and 2 diesel), plus 8 estate cars, based on 3 levels of finish and 4 engines (3 petrol and l diesel).

The BX 19 TRS, equipped with the 1905 cc engine, designed for 105 hp at 5600 rpm, replaces the BX l9 GT, with different finish work; as an option, it can take the 4 speed automatic transmission which, to within one speed, is the same as the one installed on the BX 16 and on the BX 19 TRD. This option is also available on the BX TRS estate.

The BX 16 and the BX 19 RD are added to the BX 16 RS, BX 16 TRS and BX 19 TRD from which they differ by the finish work.

But the undisputed star of the BX line is the newcomer at the very top of the pyramid: the BX 19 GTi, a “Touring Sedan” lithe, responsive, fast and reliable, with remarkable road behaviour and corresponding comfort. Its style and its stateliness  fit the rise of the BX line wonderfully. The vigour of its engine provides brilliant performance (0-400 m .- 16.4 seconds, 0-1000 m.- 30.5 seconds, 0 to 100 kph .- 8.9 seconds, maximum speed 198 kph.

The suspension was adapted to the vehicle’s performance (flexibility, shock absorbing, diameters of anti-roll bars) and it has an optional system for preventing wheel lock when braking.