1996 Citroen Saxo (Phase I, 1996) 5-door Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Citroen Saxo Phase I 5-door varies between approximately 800 kg and 925 kg (1764 to 2039 lbs), depending on specific trim and options. Its maximum gross weight ranges between 1330 kg and 1400 kg (2932 to 3086 lbs). This relatively light weight contributes to agile handling and decent fuel efficiency, making the Saxo a practical choice for daily commuting with moderate load capacities.

The Citroen Saxo Phase I 5-door offers a luggage capacity of 280 liters (9.9 cubic feet) with the rear seats in their upright position. When the rear seats are folded down, the luggage space increases dramatically to 953 liters (33.6 cubic feet). This flexible rear seating configuration allows for accommodating larger cargo loads, enhancing its practicality as a small hatchback suitable for shopping, travel, or transporting bulky items.

Yes, the Citroen Saxo Phase I 5-door comfortably fits inside a standard single-car garage. Its length of 3718 mm (146.3 inches) and width of 1595 mm (62.8 inches) are well within typical garage space dimensions, which usually start around 2400 mm (94.5 inches) wide and 4800 mm (189 inches) long. The moderate height of 1390 mm (54.7 inches) also provides ample vertical clearance, allowing easy parking and storage without spatial constraints common to larger vehicles.

Compared to its predecessor, the Citroen AX, the Saxo Phase I 5-door is slightly larger in every dimension, reflecting a trend toward more spacious and comfortable small cars in the mid-1990s. The Saxo’s length (3718 mm vs. AX's approximately 3600 mm) and width (1595 mm vs. AX's approximately 1560 mm) increased to provide more interior space for passengers and luggage. These dimensions allowed for better ergonomics and additional comfort while maintaining similar fuel-efficiency benefits. Additionally, the Saxo featured updated styling and improved suspension for enhanced ride quality, distinguishing it from the AX despite their shared role as compact hatchbacks.

In comparison to other compact hatchbacks from the late 1990s, such as the Peugeot 106 or Ford Fiesta of that time, the Citroen Saxo Phase I 5-door holds competitive dimensions. For example, the Peugeot 106 measured approximately 3700 mm in length and 1610 mm in width, quite close to the Saxo’s 3718 mm length and 1595 mm width; similarly, the Ford Fiesta was around 3700 mm long and 1650 mm wide. The Saxo’s slightly lower height at 1390 mm provides a lower center of gravity, potentially aiding handling dynamics. Overall, the Saxo fits squarely into the typical size category of small European hatchbacks of the time, offering a good balance of interior space and compactness.

The Citroen Saxo Phase I 5-door came equipped with rim sizes of 5J x 13 and 5.5J x 14 inches, accommodating tire sizes of 155/70 R13, 165/70 R13, and 165/65 R14. The range of tire sizes allowed for a balance between comfort, handling, and road grip. Smaller 13-inch wheels typically provide a softer ride, while the 14-inch option improves road holding and stability, giving buyers flexibility depending on their driving preferences or conditions.

The approved roof load capacity of the Citroen Saxo Phase I 5-door is 50 kg (approximately 110 lbs). This means the car’s roof can safely support the weight of roof racks, luggage boxes, or other gear up to that limit. For practical use, this allows owners to carry additional cargo such as bicycles or camping equipment on the roof, expanding the vehicle’s versatility. However, exceeding this limit could compromise vehicle stability or damage the roof structure, so it’s important to adhere to the specified maximum roof load.

The Citroen Saxo Phase I 5-door introduced in 1996 marked a shift from earlier small hatchbacks through updated, rounded styling aimed at modern urban drivers. It featured a more aerodynamic body with softer lines and a larger cabin footprint, focusing on passenger comfort and practicality. Technologically, it incorporated improved safety features and offered a variety of petrol engines for better performance and fuel economy. Inside, it provided better interior materials and ergonomics compared to predecessors, making it a more refined and competitive economy hatchback in the mid-90s market.

The Citroen Saxo Phase I 5-door stands out as a practical urban car due to its compact dimensions, light weight, and efficient use of interior space. Its length of 3718 mm (146.3 inches) and narrow width of 1595 mm (62.8 inches) enable easy maneuvering and parking in tight city environments. The generous luggage capacity, especially with rear seats folded (up to 953 liters or 33.6 cubic feet), enhances versatility for daily errands or weekend trips. Furthermore, its modest curb weight contributes to good fuel economy and nimble handling, reducing running costs and making it ideal for city dwellers or small families seeking a reliable, economical hatchback.