Citroen exits Australia

French car-maker Citroen has today announced the end new car sales for the Australian market.

Citroen dealerships – nine nationally – will now solely provide service and vehicle maintenance support going forward.

Citroën Australia General Manager, David Owen, said: “We know there will continue to be Citroën owners in Australia, with many Citroën vehicles still on the road, and our passionate Citroën Australia team and retailer network are committed to supporting the continued vehicle maintenance needs of our customers.”

Citroen’s local importer, global vehicle distribution giant Inchcape, which also imports Subaru and Peugeot vehicles in Australia, will effectively replace the French brand with Chinese-based Foton vehicles.

The Foton car brand is expected to re-launch in Australia by late 2024, with a range of utes, vans and trucks with both combustion and electrified powertrains, where Citroen’s portfolio was mainly small cars and SUVs comprising C3, C4, C5 Aircross SUV and C5X.

“Whilst we acknowledge and celebrate Citroën’s rich history in the Australian market, we must look to the future and consider the rapidly evolving, dynamic, and competitive nature of the industry and local market, alongside changing consumer demands,” said the Citroen Australia boss.

The Stellantis-owned French manufacturer sold just 13 vehicles in July 2024, for a year-to-date total of 87 units, representing a drop of 39 per cent over the previous year.

“The decision for Citroën Australia to cease new vehicle sales was not made lightly;
it was made after careful consideration of the current and future product available
for our country, in the context of the local market and the preferences and
requirements of Australian new vehicle buyers,” said the Citroen Australia boss.

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