1996 Citroen Saxo (Phase I, 1996) 3-door Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1996 Citroën Saxo Phase I 3-door ranges from approximately 780 kg to 1020 kg (1719 to 2249 pounds), depending on the trim and equipment. The maximum allowable weight varies between 1220 kg and 1395 kg (2690 to 3075 pounds), reflecting the vehicle’s capacity including passengers and cargo.

The Saxo Phase I offers a luggage capacity of 187 to 280 liters (6.6 to 9.9 cubic feet) with all seats in their normal position. When the rear seats are folded down, this capacity expands significantly to between 830 and 953 liters (29.3 to 33.7 cubic feet), allowing for much larger cargo items to be carried.

The roof load capacity of the Citroën Saxo Phase I 3-door is rated at 50 kilograms (approximately 110 pounds). This means you can safely carry lightweight roof racks or cargo containers to increase your carrying capacity without compromising the vehicle's stability or safety.

This model came with rims sized at 5.5J x 14 inches or 13 inches, with tire options including 155/70 R13, 165/65 R14, 165/70 R13, and 185/55 R14. These sizes reflect a balance between ride comfort, handling, and fuel efficiency.

Yes, the Citroën Saxo Phase I, with its compact length of 3718 mm (146.3 inches) and width of 1595 mm (62.8 inches), fits comfortably in a standard single-car residential garage. Typical garages usually have a width of about 2400-3000 mm (94-118 inches) and lengths over 4800 mm (189 inches), providing ample clearance for the Saxo.

The Citroën Saxo Phase I replaced the AX and offered a similar compact hatchback profile but with marginally increased dimensions and modernized styling. The Saxo’s length is around 3718 mm compared to the AX’s roughly 3600-3650 mm, making the Saxo slightly larger. Weight-wise, the Saxo's curb weight ranges from 780 to 1020 kg, generally comparable to or slightly heavier than the AX, reflecting sturdier build and more equipment for improved safety and comfort.

The Citroën Saxo Phase I fits well within the compact hatchback segment of the late 1990s. Its dimensions (3718 mm length, 1595 mm width) are slightly on the smaller side compared to competitors like the Ford Fiesta, Opel Corsa, or Peugeot 106, which often measured around 3800-3900 mm in length. The Saxo’s lightweight construction and smaller footprint made it particularly agile and economical for city use.

The Citroën Saxo Phase I is known for its compact design, nimble handling, and efficient use of space. It was presented as an affordable and practical city car, often equipped with small-displacement petrol engines for fuel economy. The 3-door hatchback layout maximized simplicity and lightness, while offering reasonable space for passengers and luggage. The Saxo’s minimalist yet functional approach made it popular in Europe as an entry-level vehicle.

The Citroën Saxo Phase I 3-door typically seats four passengers comfortably, though five fit if needed, albeit more snugly in the rear. Despite its compact external size, clever interior packaging ensures adequate headroom and legroom for front occupants. Rear passenger space is more limited due to the short wheelbase and 3-door design, but folding rear seats help increase cargo capacity when needed.