Citroen CEO, Thierry Koskas, said that the French automaker needs to focus on mainstream segments for the future, possibly limiting its lineup to five or six “well positioned” models.

Koskas hinted at the demise of the Citroen C5 X flagship after the current generation, and explained why it is hard to make a profitable city car to sit below the subcompact C3.

The C5 X, introduced in 2021, is a blend of wagon and crossover designed to appeal as a successor to notable Citroen flagships such as the DS, CX, XM, and C5/C6 series. Despite reasonable sales performance and distinctive features like spacious cabin and comfort-focused suspension, the C5 X will not see another generation. Koskas expressed that this model falls into a "non-existent" segment from their perspective moving forward.

Addressing future strategy changes, Koskas specified that Citroen aims to condense its vehicle range to "five or six models, well positioned, really appealing to customers." Currently, Citroen’s passenger lineup includes the C3, C3 Aircross, C4, C4 X, C5 Aircross, and C5 X, setting aside the LCV-based vans (Berlingo and SpaceTourer) and the fully electric Ami heavy quadricycle.

In discussing brand direction and philosophy moving ahead, Koskas reiterated their intention to introduce quirky new shapes and shake up the market while maintaining a focus on affordability, simplicity, and comfort for its consumers. The powertrain strategy remains diverse with plans for internal combustion engine models along with hybrids and electric vehicles.

Source: Autocar