Model Cycle

June 1987 - February 1997

Model Segment

Supermini

Body Styles

Hatchback

Driveline

FWD

Engine Options

Petrol: 1.0, 1.1 & 1.4
Diesel: 1.4 & 1.5

Trim Levels: Note Upgrades marked ( )

E (Debut), RE (TGE) (Echo) (Echo Plus), TRE (TRS), TZS (TZX), GT (Forte), RD (TGD) (Echo) (Echo Plus), DTR (TZD).

Significant Model Developments

- Major facelift with slightly improved safety in 1992

Limited Editions

Model // Introduced // Based On // Valuation
Jazz // 90G // 1.0 E // £150
Miami // 91H // 1.0 E // Similar
Highlight // 92J // 1.0 Debut // £50
Neon // 93K // 1.0 Debut // £75
Jive // 93K // 1.0 Debut &Echo Diesel // £75
Salsa // 93K // 1.0 Debut // £75
Cascade // 94L // 1.0 Debut &Echo Diesel // £75
Spree // 94L/M // 1.0 Debut // £150
Dimension // 94M // 1.0 Debut // £150
Memphis // 91H & 95M // 1.1 TGE // £100
GT 500 // 91H // GT // £100
Spree // 97P // 1.0 Debut // Similar

Summary

Running costs for both petrol and diesel versions of the AX are lowest in class. Although the facelift gave the AX a slightly more solid feel, this is one of the least safe cars around. The GT has blistering performance and great handling.
Special/Limited editions offer the best value for money if you can stand the upholstery. Replaced by the Saxo with only Debut base model in diesel and petrol initially continuing in production, latterly called the AX Dimensions.
Following the launch of diesel versions of the Saxo in 1996, only one version - a petrol driven AX 'Spree' - was produced as a base/entry model.

Which Model to choose

AX 1.1 Echo Plus/1.4 Echo Plus Diesel

Alternatives Worth Considering

Peugeot 106
Fiat Punto
Volkswagen Polo
Citroen AX, Daihatsu Charade, Fiat Punto, Fiat Uno, Ford Fiesta, Honda Civic, Kia Pride, Mazda 121, Mitsubishi Colt, Nissan Micra, Peugeot 106, Peugeot 205, Renault 5, Renault Clio, Rover Metro/100, SEAT Ibiza, Subaru Justy, Suzuki Swift, Toyota Starlet,
Vauxhall Nova, Vauxhall Corsa, Volkswagen Polo,

The views expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Carsource.