Production versions of the CX were always powered by a modest inline 4 cylinder engine - only the very rare 122 kW (166 PS) GTi Turbo (1985–89) ever had the engine power to match the capabilities of the chassis. At launch, the carburetor CX was positioned below the 104 kW (141 PS) DS 23 Pallas Injection Electronique and the 132 kW (179 PS) SM Injection Electronique.