The 3.0-litre, double overhead cam, 24-valve V6 engine is the same unit found in the Xantia V6 and Peugeot 406

The Australian version of the XM comes with four-speed automatic transmission only

A rotating compensating shaft on the right-hand cylinder head helps damp out vibrations in the engine

Smoothness is assisted by the adoption of offset crankpins to give equal firing intervals

Citroen's hydro pneumatic "Hydractive" suspension adapts to changing driving conditions to maintain stability and ride comfort

Computer processes information on steering wheel angle, accelerator movement, vehicle speed and body movement. The computer reacts in .05 of a second, virtually "anticipating" body movements before they happen

Anti-lock brakes are standard on the XM

Hatchback configuration, with fold-down rear seat, makes the XM a versatile luxury car

Citroen uses "fly by wire" technology to switch the suspension between firm and soft settings

Transverse V6 engine drives the front wheels

Side and rear airbags are standard on the XM

Electric sunroof is standard

A low aerodynamic drag figure of Cd 0.30 is consistent with Citroen's design philosophies

80-litre fuel tank provides a generous touring range and is located ahead of the rear axle for safety

The electronic suspension can be locked in "sports" mode via a switch on the centre console