Citroen will cease taking new orders in Australia by November 1, 2024, due to consistently low sales, marking the end of the country's longest-running automotive brand, active since 1923.

The decision comes as Citroen’s Australian sales have dwindled to around 200 units annually over the past five years. Despite its century-long presence, Citroen's lineup in Australia, including the C3, C4 crossover, C5 Aircross SUV, and C5 X fastback, failed to attract significant demand. The latest C3 and C3 Aircross models, featuring new styling and the updated double chevron emblem, were never introduced in the Australian market.

Sales have plummeted from a peak of 3,803 units in 2007 to just 175 in 2021, with no signs of recovery. In the first half of 2024, only 87 Citroen vehicles were registered in Australia, placing the brand behind niche luxury marques like Maserati, Ferrari, and Bentley. Only McLaren and Rolls-Royce sold fewer units.

Inchcape Australia, the local distributor, has assured customers that it will honor the five-year unlimited-mile warranty and offer capped-price servicing at its 35 service centers.

David Owen, general manager of Citroen Australia, emphasized the decision was made after careful consideration of the local market's evolving demands and the future product lineup. He acknowledged Citroen’s rich history in Australia but noted that the brand's current focus on smaller, budget-friendly vehicles within the Stellantis group does not align with the preferences of Australian consumers.

Owen concluded by reassuring that Citroen owners in Australia will continue to receive full support for vehicle maintenance, with many Citroen vehicles still on the road.

The brand's local distributor turns its attention to its more successful sibling, Peugeot.

Source: Car Expert