Citroën Bijou
| Company type | Automobile model |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | 1959 |
| Defunct | 1964 |
| Headquarters | Slough , England, United Kingdom |
| Products | Compact coupé cars |
The Citroën Bijou was a compact coupé manufactured by Citroën at their Slough facility in England between 1959 and 1964. Constructed on the Citroën 2CV chassis, it retained the innovative interconnected suspension system and was equipped with a two-cylinder 425 cc engine delivering 12 bhp. Designed with a fibreglass body, the Bijou aimed to appeal to the more traditional British clientele, offering a contrast to the practical nature of the 2CV.
Production totaled just 210 units plus two prototypes. The vehicle's styling was created by Peter Kirwan-Taylor, who was also recognized for designing the 1957 fibreglass-bodied Lotus Elite. The Bijou incorporated elements from the DS model, including its distinctive single-spoke steering wheel. Initially, Whitson & Co near Citroën’s Slough plant managed the body moulding before this task was transferred to a different manufacturer.
The Bijou faced commercial challenges largely due to its launch price of £674, which was considered steep in the cost-conscious British market—where buyers could purchase a four-seat Ford Popular with a larger engine for £494. Although its contemporary design provided improved top speed and fuel economy relative to the 2CV, the added weight from the fibreglass body adversely impacted acceleration and overall driving performance. Reviewers also noted that it was priced higher than competitors such as the Austin Mini, despite targeting a more upscale market segment.
As of 2013, approximately 150 Bijou vehicles were registered with the 2CVGB club, with fewer than 40 remaining in roadworthy condition.