seat covers rear for Citroën 2CV6

Citroën 2CV Rear Seat: Design, Differences, and Removal

The most distinctive feature of the 2CV rear seat is its original purpose: it was not intended as a permanently installed piece of comfort furniture, but rather as a lightweight, removable utility seat. Citroën even played on this very idea in the 1960s: the bench or seats could be easily removed and taken along for a picnic or “to get some fresh air.”

Technically, the bench consists essentially of a tubular frame to which the upholstery or covering is attached. Early 2CVs still had very simple fastenings using hooks and straps. Starting in October 1954, the system was simplified: instead of flat rings and double hooks, round rubber rings with metal hooks were used, which were stretched between the frame and a sewn-in metal rod in the upholstery.

The seats underwent several changes over the course of 2CV production from 1949 to 1990. Notable differences include, for example:

  • Early 2CV A / AZ: very simple, visible tubular frames, thin upholstery, and minimal cushioning comfort.
  • AZAM from 1963: significantly more comfortable, with thicker foam padding. The tubular frame was largely concealed by the upholstery. At the top edge of the rear backrest, there was a “Hamac porte-objets,” a sort of hammock or storage compartment.
  • 2CV Mixte / ENAC: special rear bench seat, foldable, flip-down, and removable. It was designed for quick switching between passenger and cargo modes and is very rare and sought-after today.
  • From April 1978: The rear bench was equipped with side spring locks on the wheel wells. Previously, since 1949, it had been locked centrally at the rear on the center foot.

In practice, this means: The rear bench can be easily removed. This is precisely one of the 2CV’s best features. In less than a minute, it turns into a comfortable picnic bench for the grass.

Removing the 2CV6 rear seat

  1. Unlocking

    Reach behind the backrest. There, at the bottom center (or on the sides for newer models), you’ll find locking latches that secure the backrest to the body. Pull these upward or toward the center to release the backrest.

  2. Fold forward

    Fold the entire bench forward slightly.

  3. Unhooking

    The bench is not bolted to the floor but is hooked into the bench box with two hook-shaped feet. Lift the bench at an angle of about 45 degrees and pull it backward out of the hooks.

  4. Removing

    Now you can carry the entire bench outside through the rear door or the tailgate.

Tips for outdoor use

  • Stability: On soft ground, such as grass, the bench is quite stable. On hard surfaces like asphalt, however, it can easily tip backward if you lean on it too forcefully.
  • Protection: The lower metal feet are often a bit greasy or dirty. If you place the bench on a picnic blanket, it’s best to put a piece of cardboard or a cloth under the feet.
  • Tailgate: When the bench is set up outdoors, the tailgate of your 2CV—on models with a large combined trunk lid—can be used as a rain cover or to provide shade.

Check when reinstalling the 2CV rear seat

During installation, the two hooks on the underside must be securely hooked into the seat box before you lock the backrest. Otherwise, the bench may slide forward during the first braking maneuver.