Citroen stands as one of the oldest automobile manufacturers in the world. Andre Citroen founded the company in 1919 in Paris, France. The brand became famous for innovative engineering, distinctive design, and mass production techniques.
Today Citroen operates as part of Stellantis, the global automotive group formed in 2021. The company manufactures passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and electric models sold across Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa.
Citroen vehicles have earned recognition for comfort-focused engineering and bold styling. The brand produces popular models including the C3, C4, C5 Aircross, and Berlingo van range. Research and development takes place at facilities in France.
Citroen History
Citroen Co-founders
Citroen Market Cap
Citroen operates as a brand within Stellantis, so its value forms part of the parent company’s market capitalization. Stellantis trades on the New York Stock Exchange and Euronext with a market cap of approximately $28.8 billion as of 2025.
Citroen Acquisitions
Citroen pursued an aggressive expansion strategy during the 1960s under the leadership of Pierre Bercot. The company sought technology partners and new market segments to grow its automotive empire. This approach led to several notable acquisitions.
In 1965, Citroen acquired Panhard, a French automaker known for mid-sized cars. The companies had cooperated since 1953, sharing sales networks and technology. Citroen phased out the Panhard passenger car brand by 1967 but retained manufacturing expertise.
The same year, Citroen purchased Berliet, a major French truck manufacturer. This acquisition gave Citroen entry into the commercial vehicle market. However, Berliet was later sold to Renault in 1975 following the merger with Peugeot.
In 1968, Citroen made its most ambitious acquisition by purchasing Italian sports car maker Maserati. The goal was to access high-performance engine technology for the SM grand tourer. Maserati developed a 2.7-liter V6 engine that powered the SM from 1970 to 1975. This partnership also brought Maserati vehicles hydropneumatic suspension and other Citroen technologies.
The relationship with Maserati ended poorly. Financial troubles at Citroen during the 1974 oil crisis forced the company to sell Maserati to Alejandro de Tomaso in 1975. The Italian state holding company GEPI took a majority stake in the transaction.
Citroen also formed joint ventures including Comotor with NSU to develop Wankel rotary engines. This venture produced engines for the GS Birotor but failed commercially. The rotary engine program contributed to the financial crisis that led to the Peugeot merger.
Citroen Revenue
Citroen does not report revenue separately from Stellantis. The parent company generated net revenues of 156.9 billion euros in 2024. Citroen and Peugeot together contribute approximately 8% of market share in European automotive sales.
Citroen Competitors
Citroen competes in the mass-market automotive segment across Europe and emerging markets. The brand faces competition from French, German, Japanese, and Korean automakers in its core compact car and SUV categories.
| Company | Headquarters | Primary Segment |
|---|---|---|
| Renault | France | Mass-market, Electric Vehicles |
| Volkswagen | Germany | Mass-market, Premium |
| Toyota | Japan | Mass-market, Hybrids |
| Ford Motor | United States | Mass-market, Commercial |
| Hyundai Motor | South Korea | Mass-market, Electric Vehicles |
| Skoda | Czech Republic | Mass-market, Value |
| Seat/Cupra | Spain | Mass-market, Sport |
| Kia Motors | South Korea | Mass-market, Electric Vehicles |
| Dacia | Romania | Budget, Value |
| Opel/Vauxhall | Germany/UK | Mass-market (Stellantis) |
FAQs
Who owns Citroen now?
Stellantis owns Citroen as part of its 14-brand portfolio. Stellantis formed in 2021 through the merger of PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.
When was Citroen founded?
Andre Citroen founded the company in 1919 in Paris, France. He converted his World War I munitions factory into an automobile manufacturing plant.
What does the Citroen logo represent?
The double chevron logo represents herringbone gears. Andre Citroen discovered this gear-cutting process in Poland in 1902 and bought the patent.
Did Citroen own Maserati?
Yes, Citroen owned Maserati from 1968 to 1975. The partnership produced the SM grand tourer before financial difficulties forced Citroen to sell.
What is Citroen best known for?
Citroen is famous for innovative engineering including hydropneumatic suspension, front-wheel drive, and iconic designs like the 2CV, DS, and Traction Avant.
