France: The new Citroën DS3: antidote to blandness

The DS3 will be the first model from Citroën's brand new DS line, a product range consisting of three distinctively styled, attention-grabbing models that highlight the very best of Citroën's [I]‘créative technologie.'[/I]

Designed to meet the requirements of even the most demanding connoisseur, DS3 offers an extensive array of style, personalisation and quality materials for a bespoke and refined driving experience, whilst at the same time embodying the very latest Citroën technology including fuel-efficient, environmentally-considerate engines.

Inside, the atmosphere in the cabin is one of class and contemporary elegance with an exceptional attention to detail and an extensive use of luxury materials such as leather and chrome. The upper part of the flowing dashboard echoes the floating roof.

Thermo-coated components are used throughout - an organic, soft grain material, which contrasts perfectly with the smooth, lacquered effect of the strip runs the full width of the dash from driver to passenger side.

[B]"MY DS3!"[/B]
Offering freedom of expression, the innovative DS3 provides extensive levels of personalisation - both inside and out.

In addition to a range of body shades, the DS3's distinctive ‘floating' roof is available in a choice of four colours - Black, White, Blue and Red - to contrast with the main body of the car. The wing mirrors and rubbing strips can also be personalised in colours or smart chrome finish and the wheels and wheel centres are available in a wide spectrum of colours.

Inside, DS3 can offer further personalisation with the dashboard strip - which encompasses the air vents, instrument cluster, multi-function screens and even a scented air-fresher - in a choice of six finishes.

[B]ENERGY AND ELEGANCE[/B]

Proving that environmentally-considerate motoring doesn't mean having to compromise on style or performance, the DS3 will be available with a choice of five CO2-efficient Euro V power plants consisting of two HDi diesel units and three BMW co-developed petrol engines, combining refined performance with strong fuel economy.

The two HDi diesels - a 90bhp and an 110bhp - are fitted with Citroën's lauded DPFS (Diesel Particulate Filter System) and the three petrol engines - VTi 95, VTi 120 and THP 150 - are fitted with either 5 or 6 speed manual gearboxes.

Fully in line with Citroën's commitment to producing cleaner, more environmentally considerate vehicles, the two HDi DPFS engines will deliver ultra low CO2 emissions of just 99g/km and 115/g km, whilst the petrol units will emit between 136/km and 160g/km.

[B]LOST IN SPACE[/B]

Both enjoyable and easy to live with, the DS3 combines high-end style with practical versatility, creating an exceptionally spacious cabin out of its compact external dimensions - a Citroën speciality.

One of the smallest vehicles in its class - 3.95m long, 1.71m wide and 1.46m high - the DS3's interior belies its neat frame, setting a new class standard for spaciousness.

The DS3 also boasts the largest boot in its class at 285-litres, and for additional load capacity the 60:40 split-fold rear bench can be tumbled forward in a single, effortless movement.

[B]PLAY IT SAFE[/B]

The DS3 is designed with an emphasis on robustness, strength and optimum safety to ensure protection for all occupants. For reassuring control in any driving situation DS3 models will feature as standard ESP, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and EBA (Emergency Brake Assist) as well as six airbags and Isofix anchor points on the rear side seats.

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Credits: JRC