The 10 best-selling French cars of all time might surprise you, but if you’re a true Francophile, we’d be surprised if you hadn’t driven at least one of them.
Come to think of it, if you’re really turned on by objets français you’ve probably owned one.
What are the best-selling French cars?
It’s hard to deny the allure, charm and engineering prowess of French cars. From zippy city runarounds to luxurious saloons, French automobiles have left an indelible mark on the global automobile industry. The ten best cars we’ll leave for another day, but let’s look at the 10 best-selling French cars through the years.
1. Renault Clio
Since it burst on to the market in 1990, the Clio has been included in numerous ‘Car of the Year’ lists along the way.
Compact and versatile, its stylish exterior, comfortable ride and strong safety features have taken it to the top of the list.
With its innovative features, it continues to be a popular choice in its segment.
Renault sold over 15 million units worldwide by 2019, the third year in a row in which the Clio was the best-selling French car on the planet. The 2005 model is on the right.
2. Peugeot 206
Praised for its keen handling and comfortable interior, the Peugeot 206 enjoyed incredible global popularity, especially in Europe and South America.
Peugeot sold approximately 8.3 million units worldwide between 1998 and 2012.
It was the best-selling car in the UK in 2001 and 2002, and renowned for its style and performance.
Praised for its agile handling and efficient engines, the 206 quickly became a bestseller.
3. Citroën 2CV
The Citroën 2CV, fondly known as the deux chevaux, still enjoys a cult status among best-selling French cars.
And why not?
This economical, easy-to-repair vehicle was France’s answer to the Volkswagen Beetle.
Celebrated for its unconventional design, including a distinctive curved body and a roll-back roof, the 2CV was simple, durable and affordable.
Over 5 million units were produced between 1948 and 1990; it was the best-selling car in France for several years in the 1950s.
4. Renault 4
What the Ford Model T did for the US, the Renault 4 did for France.
The Renault 4, an influential compact car, debuted in 1961, embodying practicality and versatility. Renowned for its utilitarian design, it featured a hatchback, robust suspension and ample interior space.
The Renault 4’s enduring popularity reflected its adaptability. It influenced the style of future compact and family vehicles. It was the first French car to surpass 8 million sales globally.
This evergreen model was in production from until 1994, and approximately 8 million units were sold worldwide over three decades.
That’s the 1974 model on the left.
5. Peugeot 205
The compact Peugeot 205 is perhaps the car that comes to mind when you think of the quintessential hot hatch. Well, maybe back then!
More than 5.3 million units were sold between 1983 and 2001 and it was Peugeot’s top-selling model for several years during the 80s and 90s.
Recognised for its stylish design and engaging driving experience, the 205 achieved considerable success, winning the European Car of the Year award in 1984.
It’s fondly remembered as an influential model in automotive history.
6. Renault 5
The Renault 5 left a lasting legacy for the French automobile industry.
The classic compact car, first introduced in 1972, gained popularity for its practical design and efficiency.
Known for its distinctive silhouette and hatchback style, it became a symbol of the era.
It even came with a turbocharged variant (left), which proved extremely popular.
Over 5.5 million Renault 5 units were sold from 1972-1985, and it was France’s best-selling car during those years.
7. Citroën DS
Full disclosure. This is the French car we have always wanted to drive because it looks like a French car. Too many of those compact cabooses on the list look as though they were made in Asia. Why were the French such copycats?
Anyway, known for its futuristic design and innovative technology, the Citroën DS is considered an icon of 20th century automotive design.
It sold 1.5 million units from 1955 to 1975, which, strangely, doesn’t sound like that many. Like the 2CV, it was featured in countless films (usually driving past Paris scenery that had the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame Cathedral right next to one other). The DS has a special place in pop culture.
8. Renault Twingo
With its unique design and excellent fuel efficiency, the Renault Twingo quickly became a favourite among city dwellers.
Over 2.6 million units have been sold since its release in 1993, when it superseded the Renault 5.
It was popular throughout Europe, and also among the best-selling French cars in Germany in its early years.
The 1995 Twingo is pictured on the left. The keys are in the ignition, but I’m betting against anyone stealing it.
9. Citroën Xsara
The Xsara’s blend of style, comfort and solid performance won it a loyal following, especially among family users.
Approximately 1.8 million units were sold from 1997 to 2006, its years of production.
It was available in various body styles, including hatchback, sedan and estate. Known for its comfortable ride and practical design, the Xsara catered to a broad market.
The sportier Xsara VTS model gained popularity among enthusiasts and it gained fame as the vehicle driven by rally car driver Sébastien Loeb.
We like this one. It has a bit of style about it.
10. Renault 12
We certainly remember this one. It’s probably the first French car I drove.
The Renault 12 remains one of the best-selling French cars globally, famed for its durability and simplicity and, in this case, its horrific colour.
Over 2.5 million units were sold between 1969 and 2000.
It enjoyed considerable popularity in Turkey, where it was manufactured and sold under the brand ‘Toros’.
At least the Turks showed some originality with their car names.
Which of these best-selling French cars is your favourite? Comment below and keep the conversation going.
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