Citroën Classic tour: the brand pays tribute to its iconic models!
11-09-2026 22:11 - EVENTS
Drawing on more than 107 years of heritage, Citroën chose to celebrate the vehicles that have shaped its history with the inaugural edition of the Citroën Classic Tour. At Parc André Citroën in Paris, the brand, together with L'Aventure Citroën, showcased nine historic models marking milestone anniversaries this year. The highlight of the day was an exceptional parade through the streets of Paris, bringing together nearly thirty collectors and their vehicles. From the legendary 2CV to the Méhari, including the iconic Traction Avant, the parade offered a true immersion into Citroën’s heritage and history.
“Citroën is one of the few automotive manufacturers able to draw on more than 107 years of history. Celebrating this heritage means paying tribute to the iconic models and innovations that have shaped our brand’s identity across generations. It is also an opportunity to reaffirm what has defined Citroën’s DNA from the very beginning: making mobility accessible to everyone, staying close to people’s needs, while delivering unmatched comfort and distinctive design. This celebration would not be possible without the remarkable commitment of L’Aventure Citroën, which works every day to preserve and pass on our heritage. I would also like to warmly thank the collectors who keep Citroën’s history alive. Through their passion, loyalty, and dedication to the brand, they help promote this exceptional legacy and remind us of the unique place Citroën holds in the hearts of so many generations.” Xavier Chardon, CEO of Citroën
CITROËN CLASSIC TOUR: A NEW MUST-ATTEND EVENT FOR FANS OF THE BRAND
With one of the richest legacies in the automotive industry, Citroën felt it only natural to create an event dedicated to celebrating its history. The brand therefore launched the first edition of the Citroën Classic Tour, a day dedicated to sharing, passing on knowledge, and celebrating passion, while highlighting the iconic models that have marked different eras of its history.
To bring this event to life, Citroën relied on the support of L’Aventure Citroën, whose mission is to preserve, promote, and transmit the brand’s heritage. The Citroën Classic Tour also brought together around thirty passionate collectors who showcased their vehicles, took part in an exceptional parade through the streets of Paris, and shared their enthusiasm for the Citroën universe with the public. Through their commitment and dedication, these collectors help keep alive and pass on a unique automotive heritage that reflects more than a century of history and innovation.
Designed as a moment of gathering and conviviality, the Citroën Classic Tour aims to become the annual meeting place for all enthusiasts of the chevron brand. It offers a unique opportunity to celebrate more than a century of automotive innovation and to share Citroën’s heritage with generations past, present, and future.
NINE ICONIC MODELS CELEBRATED ON THEIR ANNIVERSARY
The year 2026 is particularly symbolic for Citroën, marked by the anniversaries of several of its most iconic vehicles. For the Classic Tour, nine vehicles were brought together at Parc André Citroën to celebrate these milestones in the brand’s history. Together, they represent twenty years of innovation, creativity, and automotive daring, covering the period from 1976 to 1996.
Popular city cars, limited series, sporty models, and family vehicles: each of these nine cars bears witness, in its own way, to a particular era, a specific use, and a vision of the automobile. Gathered for this event, they tell the story of Citroën’s evolution and its enduring ability to provide original answers to the expectations of each generation while maintaining the innovative spirit that has defined the brand for more than a century.
1976: The 2CV Spot and LN Celebrate Their 50th AnniversaryLaunched on April 10, 1976, the 2CV Spot occupies a special place in Citroën history as the brand’s very first limited-edition model. Produced in only 1,800 units and based on the 2CV 4, it stood out thanks to its distinctive Ténéré Orange and Meije White two-tone bodywork designed by graphic artist Serge Gevin. Its festive, summer-inspired appearance made the Spot a true style icon and introduced the limited-edition concept at Citroën.
That same year saw the arrival of the LN, a small city car produced between 1976 and 1978 in approximately 130,000 units. Developed in the context of Peugeot’s acquisition of Citroën and the energy crisis, it borrowed the bodywork of the Peugeot 104 and featured a 602 cc twin-cylinder engine producing around 32 hp, inherited from the 2CV. Compact, lightweight, and economical, the LN embodies a pivotal period in Citroën’s history.
1981: The 2CV 007 Celebrates Its 45th AnniversaryIn 1981, the 2CV 007 brought together two worlds: the popular automobile and the cinema. This special series paid tribute to the James Bond film For Your Eyes Only, in which the British secret agent drives a yellow 2CV during a memorable chase scene.
Based on the styling of the 2CV 6 and built on an Ami Super platform with a 1,015 cc flat-four engine, the model was distinguished above all by its Helios Yellow paintwork, black bullet-hole decals, and “007” logos on the doors. The limited-edition series, which features the engine and platform of the 2CV 6, was produced in just over 700 units; it remains one of the most unique examples of the collaboration between Citroën and the world of cinema.
1986: Three Models, Three Expressions of CitroënThe year 1986 is especially well represented at this first Classic Tour edition, with three models celebrating their 40th anniversary: the 2CV Cocorico, the BX GTI, and the AX.
Produced during the FIFA World Cup period, the 2CV Cocorico displayed an instantly recognizable character. Its white bodywork featured blue and red stripes and “Cocorico” logos inspired by the colors of the French flag. Based on the 2CV 6 and powered by a 29 hp engine, 1,000 examples were produced, making it one of the last major limited editions of the 2CV in France.
The BX GTI revealed an entirely different side of the brand. This sporty sedan stood out not only for its angular styling but also for its widened wheel arches, rear spoiler, dedicated wheels, and GTI badging. Its 1.9-liter petrol engine produced 125 hp while keeping weight to just over one ton, enabling top speeds close to 200 km/h. It successfully combined family-car practicality with genuine sporting character.
Also launched in 1986, the AX followed a different philosophy. Its development focused on reducing weight and fuel consumption. Some versions weighed as little as 670 kg, while the range offered petrol and diesel engines producing between 45 and 100 hp. This emphasis on lightweight efficiency contributed to the model’s commercial success, allowing it to remain in production until 1998.
1991: The ZX Volcane Celebrates Its 35th AnniversaryIntroduced in spring 1991, the ZX enabled Citroën to return to the mid-size vehicle segment between the AX and the BX. This compact five-door hatchback measuring 4.07 meters long stood out for its technological content.
Its most significant innovation was a programmed self-steering rear axle, allowing the rear wheels to steer in the same direction as the front wheels to improve cornering stability. The ZX was also the first European car equipped with a sliding rear bench seat and reclining rear seatbacks.
The Volcane was one of the four versions in the ZX “collection,” alongside the Reflex, Avantage, and Aura. The range initially offered four petrol engines producing between 60 and 130 hp, while its road handling immediately impressed automotive journalists at launch. Subsequent developments increased the power output of this dynamic version to 155 hp and later 167 hp.
1996: The Saxo VTS and Berlingo Celebrate Their 30th AnniversaryIn 1996, two new models showcased two very different visions of the automobile.
With the Saxo VTS, Citroën offered a lightweight and accessible hot hatch, continuing the dynamic DNA established by the AX. Its 1.6-liter 16-valve engine produced 120 hp for a weight of just 935 kg. Capable of reaching 205 km/h, it also featured a sharp chassis and understated styling enhanced by a few distinctive details. Produced in Aulnay-sous-Bois until 2003, it became a benchmark among small performance cars of the 1990s.
The Berlingo explored a radically different philosophy. Launched in 1996, it created the leisure activity vehicle (LAV) concept, combining the practicality of a commercial van with the comfort of a family car. Versatile, spacious, and functional, it appealed from the outset to both professionals and private customers. Over successive generations, it gained modularity, technology, and comfort while remaining faithful to its original purpose. With more than 4.2 million units produced, the Berlingo demonstrates the enduring success of a formula first imagined 30 years ago.
A HERITAGE THAT KEEPS ON ROLLING
Beyond the nine anniversary models displayed at Parc André Citroën, the brand, one of the most widely collected in the world, could also count on the passion and commitment of around thirty Citroën vehicle owners. Gathered for the occasion, they brought the brand’s history to life through an exceptional parade in the streets of Paris. It provided a unique opportunity for the public to rediscover these iconic vehicles and to appreciate the enduring affection they inspire among enthusiasts and casual admirers alike.
The Citroën Classic Tour celebrated far more than anniversaries or iconic models. It highlighted automobiles that defined their era, accompanied several generations, and helped shape the history of mobility. Decades after their launch, these vehicles continue to evoke memories, inspire emotion, and fuel an unwavering passion.
“Citroën is one of the few automotive manufacturers able to draw on more than 107 years of history. Celebrating this heritage means paying tribute to the iconic models and innovations that have shaped our brand’s identity across generations. It is also an opportunity to reaffirm what has defined Citroën’s DNA from the very beginning: making mobility accessible to everyone, staying close to people’s needs, while delivering unmatched comfort and distinctive design. This celebration would not be possible without the remarkable commitment of L’Aventure Citroën, which works every day to preserve and pass on our heritage. I would also like to warmly thank the collectors who keep Citroën’s history alive. Through their passion, loyalty, and dedication to the brand, they help promote this exceptional legacy and remind us of the unique place Citroën holds in the hearts of so many generations.” Xavier Chardon, CEO of Citroën
CITROËN CLASSIC TOUR: A NEW MUST-ATTEND EVENT FOR FANS OF THE BRAND
With one of the richest legacies in the automotive industry, Citroën felt it only natural to create an event dedicated to celebrating its history. The brand therefore launched the first edition of the Citroën Classic Tour, a day dedicated to sharing, passing on knowledge, and celebrating passion, while highlighting the iconic models that have marked different eras of its history.
To bring this event to life, Citroën relied on the support of L’Aventure Citroën, whose mission is to preserve, promote, and transmit the brand’s heritage. The Citroën Classic Tour also brought together around thirty passionate collectors who showcased their vehicles, took part in an exceptional parade through the streets of Paris, and shared their enthusiasm for the Citroën universe with the public. Through their commitment and dedication, these collectors help keep alive and pass on a unique automotive heritage that reflects more than a century of history and innovation.
Designed as a moment of gathering and conviviality, the Citroën Classic Tour aims to become the annual meeting place for all enthusiasts of the chevron brand. It offers a unique opportunity to celebrate more than a century of automotive innovation and to share Citroën’s heritage with generations past, present, and future.
NINE ICONIC MODELS CELEBRATED ON THEIR ANNIVERSARY
The year 2026 is particularly symbolic for Citroën, marked by the anniversaries of several of its most iconic vehicles. For the Classic Tour, nine vehicles were brought together at Parc André Citroën to celebrate these milestones in the brand’s history. Together, they represent twenty years of innovation, creativity, and automotive daring, covering the period from 1976 to 1996.
Popular city cars, limited series, sporty models, and family vehicles: each of these nine cars bears witness, in its own way, to a particular era, a specific use, and a vision of the automobile. Gathered for this event, they tell the story of Citroën’s evolution and its enduring ability to provide original answers to the expectations of each generation while maintaining the innovative spirit that has defined the brand for more than a century.
1976: The 2CV Spot and LN Celebrate Their 50th AnniversaryLaunched on April 10, 1976, the 2CV Spot occupies a special place in Citroën history as the brand’s very first limited-edition model. Produced in only 1,800 units and based on the 2CV 4, it stood out thanks to its distinctive Ténéré Orange and Meije White two-tone bodywork designed by graphic artist Serge Gevin. Its festive, summer-inspired appearance made the Spot a true style icon and introduced the limited-edition concept at Citroën.
That same year saw the arrival of the LN, a small city car produced between 1976 and 1978 in approximately 130,000 units. Developed in the context of Peugeot’s acquisition of Citroën and the energy crisis, it borrowed the bodywork of the Peugeot 104 and featured a 602 cc twin-cylinder engine producing around 32 hp, inherited from the 2CV. Compact, lightweight, and economical, the LN embodies a pivotal period in Citroën’s history.
1981: The 2CV 007 Celebrates Its 45th AnniversaryIn 1981, the 2CV 007 brought together two worlds: the popular automobile and the cinema. This special series paid tribute to the James Bond film For Your Eyes Only, in which the British secret agent drives a yellow 2CV during a memorable chase scene.
Based on the styling of the 2CV 6 and built on an Ami Super platform with a 1,015 cc flat-four engine, the model was distinguished above all by its Helios Yellow paintwork, black bullet-hole decals, and “007” logos on the doors. The limited-edition series, which features the engine and platform of the 2CV 6, was produced in just over 700 units; it remains one of the most unique examples of the collaboration between Citroën and the world of cinema.
1986: Three Models, Three Expressions of CitroënThe year 1986 is especially well represented at this first Classic Tour edition, with three models celebrating their 40th anniversary: the 2CV Cocorico, the BX GTI, and the AX.
Produced during the FIFA World Cup period, the 2CV Cocorico displayed an instantly recognizable character. Its white bodywork featured blue and red stripes and “Cocorico” logos inspired by the colors of the French flag. Based on the 2CV 6 and powered by a 29 hp engine, 1,000 examples were produced, making it one of the last major limited editions of the 2CV in France.
The BX GTI revealed an entirely different side of the brand. This sporty sedan stood out not only for its angular styling but also for its widened wheel arches, rear spoiler, dedicated wheels, and GTI badging. Its 1.9-liter petrol engine produced 125 hp while keeping weight to just over one ton, enabling top speeds close to 200 km/h. It successfully combined family-car practicality with genuine sporting character.
Also launched in 1986, the AX followed a different philosophy. Its development focused on reducing weight and fuel consumption. Some versions weighed as little as 670 kg, while the range offered petrol and diesel engines producing between 45 and 100 hp. This emphasis on lightweight efficiency contributed to the model’s commercial success, allowing it to remain in production until 1998.
1991: The ZX Volcane Celebrates Its 35th AnniversaryIntroduced in spring 1991, the ZX enabled Citroën to return to the mid-size vehicle segment between the AX and the BX. This compact five-door hatchback measuring 4.07 meters long stood out for its technological content.
Its most significant innovation was a programmed self-steering rear axle, allowing the rear wheels to steer in the same direction as the front wheels to improve cornering stability. The ZX was also the first European car equipped with a sliding rear bench seat and reclining rear seatbacks.
The Volcane was one of the four versions in the ZX “collection,” alongside the Reflex, Avantage, and Aura. The range initially offered four petrol engines producing between 60 and 130 hp, while its road handling immediately impressed automotive journalists at launch. Subsequent developments increased the power output of this dynamic version to 155 hp and later 167 hp.
1996: The Saxo VTS and Berlingo Celebrate Their 30th AnniversaryIn 1996, two new models showcased two very different visions of the automobile.
With the Saxo VTS, Citroën offered a lightweight and accessible hot hatch, continuing the dynamic DNA established by the AX. Its 1.6-liter 16-valve engine produced 120 hp for a weight of just 935 kg. Capable of reaching 205 km/h, it also featured a sharp chassis and understated styling enhanced by a few distinctive details. Produced in Aulnay-sous-Bois until 2003, it became a benchmark among small performance cars of the 1990s.
The Berlingo explored a radically different philosophy. Launched in 1996, it created the leisure activity vehicle (LAV) concept, combining the practicality of a commercial van with the comfort of a family car. Versatile, spacious, and functional, it appealed from the outset to both professionals and private customers. Over successive generations, it gained modularity, technology, and comfort while remaining faithful to its original purpose. With more than 4.2 million units produced, the Berlingo demonstrates the enduring success of a formula first imagined 30 years ago.
A HERITAGE THAT KEEPS ON ROLLING
Beyond the nine anniversary models displayed at Parc André Citroën, the brand, one of the most widely collected in the world, could also count on the passion and commitment of around thirty Citroën vehicle owners. Gathered for the occasion, they brought the brand’s history to life through an exceptional parade in the streets of Paris. It provided a unique opportunity for the public to rediscover these iconic vehicles and to appreciate the enduring affection they inspire among enthusiasts and casual admirers alike.
The Citroën Classic Tour celebrated far more than anniversaries or iconic models. It highlighted automobiles that defined their era, accompanied several generations, and helped shape the history of mobility. Decades after their launch, these vehicles continue to evoke memories, inspire emotion, and fuel an unwavering passion.
[
] [
]
[
]
[
]
] []
[]
[] 