Citroen has recently announced plans to introduce the Tubik concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The high-tech executive shuttle with boxy styling bold front fascia, a massive grille and miniscule headlights. Most notably, the passenger side has a massive gullwing door which opens to reveal a spacious and airy cabin.

Check out the press release for additional information and full performance data on Citroen Tubik Concept.

Citroen Tubik Concept Gallery:

Press Release

Citroen has recently reveal their latest DS5 at Shanghai debut. The latest Citroen DS5 comes in a crossover-like body-style that differs substantially from the Citroën C5 upon which it is based.

The DS5 is a five-door hatch, with a coupe-like sloping roofline and raised driving position, that measures 4.52 m long and 1.85 m wide – still fairly compact dimensions but definitely within the mid-sized segment the DS5 will compete in.

Check out the press release for additional information and full performance data on Citroen DS5.

Citroen DS5 Gallery:

Press Release:

DARING, RADICAL & ASSERTIVE – CITROËN REVEALS DS5 IN SHANGHAI

Citroën has revealed the eagerly anticipated third model in its innovative and distinctive DS line: DS5. Designed to express the full extent of Citroën’s ‘Créative Technologie’, DS5 combines ground-breaking style, rewarding driving dynamics and exceptional refinement with innovative engineering solutions.

DS5 is the first Citroën model to feature HYbrid4 diesel hybrid technology, providing enhanced performance and class leading environmental credentials. The advanced HYbrid4 system delivers 200bhp; four-wheel drive capability; emission-free electric power for the city; and an acceleration boost function for the open road – with total CO2 emissions of just 99g/km.

The DS line has already redefined expectations in the supermini segment with DS3, and combines the style of a coupé and the flexibility of a five-door hatchback with DS4. Progressing to the executive segment, DS5 targets customers looking for a truly bold and assertive car with a resolutely modern approach to vehicle design.

Based on the futuristic and magical C-SportLounge concept, DS5 bringstrue technological innovation to its class.

The dynamic exterior reflects a modern expression of status and promises enhanced driving pleasure. Flowing lines, a sleek profile and muscular wheel arches – which wrap themselves around the large (16″ to 19″) alloy wheels – give DS5 an undoubted air of refined confidence.

The assertive front end instantly identifies DS5 as a member of the DS family. There is an oversized air intake, a large chrome-finished grille housing the chevrons and a new LED light signature. A distinguishing feature, DS5 boasts chrome-finished ‘sabre’ inserts stretching from the top of each headlamp to the windscreen.

The rear design takes DS5’s on-road presence to yet another level. The car stands firmly on wide tracks, emphasised by two tail pipes built into the rear bumper and highlighted by a rear signature featuring six light guides.

Citroën DS5 is equally charismatic inside, with a remarkable cabin fully consistent with the exterior styling. The driver-focused cockpit features a coupé-like driving position with a near-vertical steering wheel and a wide central console. DS5 instantly fires the imagination. An array of buttons, switches, scroll wheels and toggles are grouped on two central consoles, one low down and one above the driver’s head, ‘pilot-style’. A simple push on the START button brings the interior to life. The colour Head-Up Display projects essential information into the driver’s line of sight and the ambient lighting bathes the cockpit in a heady mix of red and white.

Most importantly, DS5 benefits from Citroën’s expertise in quality and refinement. Each detail has been carefully considered, with premium materials such as fine-grain Club leather and exclusive designs like the ‘watchstrap’ seat upholstery – a signature touch of the DS line that is unique to the market.

Reconciling fun at the wheel with comfort and practicality, DS5 opens up new horizons with pioneering architecture, including:

A sleek, compact body (4.52m long, 1.85m wide) and a driving position worthy of a Gran Turismo coupé.
A roomy boot (up to 465 litres VDA) reminiscent of a Sportwagon.
Five real seats, four doors and all the access and modularity of a hatchback.
For its motor show debut in Shanghai, DS5 appears in a one-off livery as the Citroën DS5 White Pearl. The cabin features ebony-coloured full-grain leather, contrasting subtly with silver-flecked overstitching. Interior detailing includes decorative inserts in Markassa ebony and a highly reflective fascia, created by applying several layers of lacquer. DS5 White Pearl also sports specially designed 20-inch alloy wheels.

Citroen motors has recently reveals their DS3 and C5 Série Noire at the Geneva Motor Show. Production will be limited to 750 units and pricing starts at €24,750.

Check out the press release for additional information and full performance data on Citroen DS3 and C5 Série Noire.

Press Release:

CITROËN REVEALS THE LIMITED EDITION “SERIE NOIRE”

Citroën is presenting “Série Noire”, a limited edition available on order with the Citroën DS3 and Citroën C5. These original versions of two highly successful brand vehicles feature exclusive – and distinctive – exterior and interior styling.

CITROËN DS3 SERIE NOIRE
The Citroën DS3 continues to show bold initiative with this original and exclusive special series. The “Série Noire” model further explores the many customisation options offered by the Citroën DS3. It has matt black bodywork, a shiny black roof, 17-inch black, diamond-tipped Bellone wheels, a chrome-plated rubbing strip and chrome-plated door mirror housings. This limited edition of 750 vehicles also places particular emphasis on interior trim, with Mistral / Lama leather upholstery, and a fascia trim, air vent surrounds, interior door handle trim and gear lever knob in the same shiny black as the roof, Alongside this distinctive ambience, the Citroën DS3 Série Noire features the MyWay navigation system and HiFi system.

The Citroën DS3 Série Noire ships with the THP 150 and HDi 110 engines mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, with prices from €24,750.

CITROËN C5 SERIE NOIRE
The Citroën C5 is now available in a new limited edition aimed at the growing number of motorists looking for something different. Featuring all the equipment delivered with the Exclusive + trim, the Citroën C5 Série Noire also gains – as standard – matt Perla Nera black paint, 19-inch matt grey alloy Hephaïs wheels matching the body colour, chrome-plated door mirror housings, Criollo integral leather upholstery (including the dashboard and central console) and a roof lining in Samoa, a microfibre fabric.
The Citroën C5 Série Noire is equipped with hydractive suspension delivering a unique mix of performance and comfort. This technology, an exclusive in the automotive world, controls vehicle attitude in real time to keep ground clearance constant regardless of load. Vehicle attitude is automatically lowered at high-speeds, for improved aerodynamics and lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

This elegant, dynamic special series is available from €44,600 in saloon and tourer versions with the HDi 200 DPFS and V6 HDi 240 DPFS engines mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Citroën has recently rolled-out their latest Survolt Art Car. Color with a fluorescent paint design by artist Francoise Nielly and the model was the main attraction at the 14th annual C_42 showcase event at the French automaker’s flagship store on the Champs-Elysées in Paris.

Citroën Survolt Art Car Gallery:

Pure, simple and laid-back – Citroen Lacoste concept the latest showcased latest car will revealed at the  Paris Motor Show. The Lacoste concept features minimalistic styling and an open-air design. The Citroen embraces the theme with white “golf ball-style” wheels and a fold down windscreen.

Press Release:

Two names, Citroën and Lacoste, have come together with a shared vision – to cultivate boldness, creativity and optimism. The result of these common values: the new Citroën Lacoste Concept.

To be unveiled at the forthcoming Paris Motor Show, this new model is an emblem for a state-of-mind and a lifestyle. Clearly alluding to leisure and pleasure, it takes a simplified, no-nonsense approach to motoring – without forgetting refinement – and transports passengers to a lighter, fresher world.

The Citroën Lacoste Concept is both resolutely Citroën and typically Lacoste. Positioned at the crossroads of the automotive world, where fashion and sport meet, it makes a number of references to all three sectors. The technology on board also strikes a playful note, underlining the apparent paradox between design expertise and lightness of tone.

With its strong presence and joie de vivre, the high-tech and innovative Citroën Lacoste makes car travel an all-new experience and an incomparable adventure for the senses.

Pure, simple and laid-back, while remaining sophisticated, the Citroën Lacoste takes another step forward towards the car of the future – a vehicle aimed at putting an end to the “always more” mantra that often reigns in the automotive industry. The new model also fuels Citroën’s thinking of focusing on the essentials to create original cars that are affordable and economical, while losing none of their ambition or motoring passion, notably through premium styling.

HEIGHTENED SENSATIONS

Sweeping away preconceived ideas on compact cars – with many being supposedly short on character – the new Citroën Lacoste proudly asserts that another way forward is possible.

Stylishly minimalist and elegantly laid-back, the Citroën Lacoste instantly attracts with its off-beat sports aesthetic. It features a high waistline; bulging and textured wings; minimum overhangs front and rear; and golf ball-style alloy wheels, placed in the furthest corners of the body.

After a longer inspection, it is this car’s “open” physique that appeals – promising a fulfilling drive, while expressing a wealth of inventiveness and elegance.

Passengers enjoy an open-air experience thanks to the broad cut-outs that replace the front doors and the lack of a hard-top roof. Journeys in the Citroën Lacoste inevitably heighten the senses, much more than in a protective bubble that cuts occupants off from the world. As if these intense sensations weren’t enough, the windscreen can also be lowered out of sight, providing a harmonious waistline around the entire cabin, front, back and sides.

The elegance of the Citroën Lacoste is underpinned by the choice of drivetrain. Rather than seeking enhanced driving sensations through flat-out speed, the Citroën Lacoste Concept opts for a 3-cylinder petrol engine with plenty of performance on tap to power a vehicle of this size and weight. With its light timbre, the flexible, economical and ecological powerplant is a perfect match for the car’s “back to essentials” nature.

The Citroën Lacoste Concept respects the environment, not only by virtue of its engine, but also its design choices. Even with its large wheels, the Citroën Lacoste seems to “embrace” rather than confront nature. This impression takes concrete form in the subtle, undulating shape of the wheels, in an approach that suggests Citroën Lacoste drivers are playing with the elements for more fun.

SPONTANEOUS APPROACH

Along with its bright and breezy approach to life, the convertible Citroën Lacoste also features taut, muscular and reassuring lines. Compact and robust (at 3.45m long, 1.80m wide, 1.52m high and with a 2.30m wheelbase), the new model expresses faultless expertise in its styling and design.

The car’s laid-back personality stems from its purity, as evidenced in the body paint in pearlescent white, which is set off by dark blue design motifs and strips underlining the forms of the vehicle.

Cabin access couldn’t be easier, since the doors have been replaced by broad cut-outs that are in perfect harmony with the body styling. Access to the rear seats is just as easy, with passengers simply jumping onto the rear bench. For transporting luggage or sports equipment, the rear bench slides handily into the boot.

The car can also be fitted with specially designed sports equipment, including tennis racquets, golf clubs, skis, a surfboard or a bike, with owners deciding on the theme of their weekends.

At the crossroads of motoring, fashion and sport, the Citroën Lacoste makes a number of references to all three worlds.The cabin contains countless storage areas for enhanced travelling comfort. The compartments are discreetly located under the dashboard and within the two bench seats – with sliding covers that echo the colour of the upholstery. The seats themselves are overstitched in white cotton, with a weave closely resembling that of a polo shirt – an iconic Lacoste design. Building on this theme, the seatbelt anchorage points have “necklines” like a polo shirt, while the seats are covered in robust, rope-like cotton.

Like a wardrobe full of different clothes, accessories and fabrics, the Citroën Lacoste plays with a range of colours and materials. For fun, simplicity and elegance, the emphasis is on bold, traditional colours like white and deep blue. The cabin is then dotted with bright – almost fluorescent – yellow splashes in the storage compartments and on the grab handles, which are finished in soft and tactile rubber, with a tennis ball-like effect.

The fun-loving Citroën Lacoste brings familiar objects to mind. Some details make reference to the sporting world of the Lacoste brand. It boasts square relief designs that resemble sections of a tennis net on several parts of its body. The fairing that rises up from the underbody, at both the front and the rear, recalls the print left by a tennis shoe on a clay court.

CREATIVE & “MAGICAL” TECHNOLOGY

The on-board technology is also of a playful nature, underlining the seeming paradox between design expertise and lightness of tone. Strictly speaking this car has no fixed roof. In its place is a T-shaped structure that extends back to the boot like a “backbone”. With several functions, this structure helps when accessing the vehicle and features an ingenious system that provides shelter for passengers. An auto-inflatable hood deploys all the way along the backbone to form a soft-top roof. In the same yellow as the grab handles, the inflatable roof ensures a light-filled cabin, come rain or shine.

Invisible at first glance, the deployment of the system makes for quite a spectacle. By choosing this inflatable hood rather than a conventional structure, the Citroën Lacoste Concept remains faithful to its simple and light-hearted nature.

In much the same spirit, the fascia strip on the dashboard serves as the car’s display screen, showing driving information such as speed and the directional indicators. Messages take the form of icons with oversized pixels. This is a clear nod to the very first video games, although behind the naïve appearance lie cutting-edge technologies.

The Citroën Lacoste’s two-spoke steering wheel impresses with its minimalist design, simplicity and size. When passengers board, the wheel can be moved from its normal position and located against the upper dashboard – an ingenious way of optimising access to the front bench.

Even the front and rear lights are discreet to the point of being almost invisible. Concealed under the car’s dark blue bodywork, they can be seen only when illuminated. As well as providing visual purity, this design choice delivers a unique and almost magical sight.

Citroën has recently rolled-out their latest car Citroen DS4 that features unique and attractive blend of creativity, dynamism, exclusivity and versatility.

Check out the press release  for additional information and full performance data on Citroen DS4.

Citroen DS4 Gallery:

Press Release:

INTRODUCING THE MULTI-TALENTED NEW CITROËN DS4

Citroën has released first details for the new DS4, a unique and attractive blend of creativity, dynamism, exclusivity and versatility. DS4 is the second model in Citroën’s distinctively-styled DS line.

DS4 brings an alluring mixture of premium design codes and a bold approach to automotive styling, with an emphasis on driving pleasure and advanced vehicle architecture. DS4 is a model with a multitude of talents, effortlessly responding to a broad range of owner needs, while enhancing the appeal and vitality of the motoring experience.

DS4 combines sophistication and refinement with a dynamic coupé-like body, creating exceptional versatility and day-to-day practicality within a compact design – 4.27m (l), 1.81m (w) & 1.53m (h).

DS4 delivers a new “at-the-wheel” experience with unrivalled driving sensations and outstanding agile on-road handling. With its slightly raised stance and taut lines, DS4 is a unique and eye-catching addition to the segment.

Finely crafted to convey a prestigious presence both inside and out, DS4 offers meticulous detailing from carefully applied chrome touches to premium cabin materials – such as the finest quality leather seats. A large panoramic windscreen, offering enhanced occupant visibility, illuminates the driver-focused cockpit, creating a bright and welcoming environment.

Combining coupé style with 2+2 door practicality, DS4 offers three full-sized rear seats, accessed by rear doors with hidden handles that are seamlessly integrated into the body’s flowing lines. DS4 also benefits from a capacious 370-litre boot and a host of clever storage solutions.

DS4 comes with a choice of five refined and efficient engines – two HDi diesels and three petrol powerplants.

All engines deliver a combination of powerful performance – including a new to Citroën 200hp petrol unit – and ecologically sensitive motoring. Citroën’s new e-HDi drivetrains for example deliver improved fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.

DS4 will be revealed at the 2010 Paris Motor Show and is expected to go on sale later in 2011.

UNIQUE STYLING

An example of truly creative design, DS4 boldly blends a mix of the most desirable styling references to create an exciting new automotive proposition. Marc Pinson, DS4’s chief stylist, comments, “Reinterpreting cues opened up new possibilities, bringing practical and surprising solutions to automotive mobility”.

Compact and muscular, the DS signature on the bonnet is complemented by a striking LED light signature around the front fog lights. The LEDs are illuminated both day and night. The eye-catching profile, featuring a chrome-finished waistline surrounding dark tinted windows, is enhanced by muscular wheel arches – that emphasise the large wheels (up to 19″) – and is crowned by a tautly drawn roofline with a spoiler for added vitality. The lower part of the rear bumper is finished in chrome and the horizontal detailing on the rear light clusters highlights their innovative boomerang design.

TAILORED INTERIOR

As with its prestigious exterior, DS4’s cabin exudes power, dynamism and refinement. The driving position is enveloping, with chrome-surround dials focused directly towards the driver’s eye-line. The characterful, sculptured dashboard also uses high quality materials for a superior tactile feel.

DS4’s cabin is dominated by the large panoramic windscreen that extends backwards into the roofline. Offering up to 45° of upward vision, the panoramic glazed area combines with DS4’s slightly raised stance, to provide optimised visibility for the driver, with a bright yet intimate, airy cabin environment for passengers.

Allowing owners to personalise the interior, DS4 is available with a choice of five leather combinations, including two-tone options. Range-topping models are also equipped with high quality leather on the dashboard and door panels – complete with a ‘Bracelet’ design on the seats, evoking the links of a watch strap.

For an added touch of luxury, there is chrome detailing on the air vent surrounds, instrument cluster, gear lever and parts of the central console. Aluminium pedals, embossed leather door handles and ambient lighting are further evidence of DS4’s attention to premium detail.

NATURALLY DYNAMIC & AGILE

With its high-set, taut and agile stance, DS4 is tuned for dynamic performance, appealing to drivers looking for an involving motoring experience. “We really wanted drivers to feel like they have the road at the tips of their fingers”, says Jérémie Maestracci, DS4’s project manager.

On the road, DS4 exercises exemplary control, giving occupants a reassuring sense of safety in all circumstances. Fitted with a MacPherson type suspension assembly at the front, a flexible transverse beam at the rear and hydraulic steering with an electric pump unit, the platform is a tried and tested solution tailored for the distinctive set-up of the car.

Depending on trim level, DS4 is fitted with large-diameter (340mm) ventilated disc brakes and, as standard, with dedicated braking control systems, including ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). Ensuring optimal vehicle control in the most demanding driving situations, DS4 also features intelligent traction control with ESP.

DS4 will be launched with a choice of five refined and highly efficient Euro 5 engines. The two HDi diesels – an HDi 110 (also available as an e-HDi version) and an HDi 160 – are both fitted with Citroën’s Diesel Particulate Filter System. The three petrol powerplants – VTi 120, THP 155 and the new THP 200 – were co-developed with BMW. The new THP 200 – based on the 1.6-litre engine – delivers flexible power delivery and performance thanks to its power output (147kW), plentiful torque (275Nm at 1,700rpm) – with low CO2 emissions of just 149g/km. All engines are available with manual or EGS six-speed gearboxes.

Special attention has been given to the car’s internal acoustics, retaining the refined atmosphere on-board by minimising engine vibration, wind and road noise. This has been achieved by specifying a laminated panoramic windscreen with damping film, fitting additional sound absorbent material around the engine compartment and enhanced sealing barriers on the body and doors.

EXPERTLY EFFICIENT

DS4 was designed from the start to have a reduced environmental footprint – especially evident in its construction – by using top-quality components, an ecologically focused manufacturing process and the use of ‘green materials’ – around 15% of the 200kg of plastic used in DS4 vehicle is derived from ‘green materials.’

DS4 can be specified with Citroen’s micro-hybrid e-HDi technology, which is available from launch on versions powered by the HDi 110 engine.

The e HDi system comprises of:

* an economical HDi Euro 5 diesel power plant

* a new generation Stop & Start system, which instantly cuts out the engine when the car comes to a halt (red lights, traffic jams).

* a second-generation reversible alternator and an e-booster function that restarts the engine instantly (0.4 seconds)

* an electronically controlled alternator that recovers energy during braking;

* an Electronic Gearbox System (EGS) with optimised gear changes.

All required features such as the radio, air-conditioning and steering functions remain in operation when the engine is stopped by the system. This innovative technology can reduce the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by as much as 15% in built-up urban environments.

DAY-TO-DAY PLEASURE

DS4’s compact exterior belies a spacious and luxuriously comfortable cabin, which can be easily accessed by the car’s 2+2 door layout. To make it easier to access the rear seats – often seen as a weak point for some sporty models – DS4 features seamlessly integrated rear doors with handles hidden in the door frames.

Thanks to its optimised design, the front doors of DS4 have been made narrower and lighter, making them easier to open and close, promoting easy access at the front.

Another asset in terms of versatility and roominess is DS4’s 370-litre (VDA) boot, which is similar in volume to that of many conventional saloons.

DS4 also has numerous storage compartments for extra travelling comfort, including a large, well lit glove box; door pockets big enough for 1.5-litre bottles; and even a drawer under the front passenger seat. The intelligent architecture of the high-level central console (available on models fitted with EGS) also provides spacious storage areas. The largest of these – which is cooled, illuminated and protected by a sliding cover – can hold up to four 50-cl bottles and houses a connectivity area with an audio-jack, a USB port and a 12-volt socket. The large compartment located under the front armrest also features an additional power source.

CRÉATIVE TECHNOLOGIE ON-BOARD

Beyond its distinctive styling and dynamic performance, DS4’s cabin overflows with ‘Créative Technologie’, providing equipment, functionality and innovative features for first-class travelling comfort and ultimate user convenience. Features available include an advanced audio system with processing software for effective soundscaping, delivering high quality, authentic sound evenly throughout the cabin. For ultimate driving luxury, massaging front seats are available with electric lumbar adjustment in the front passenger’s and driver’s seat backs.

Another example of the tailored DS4 experience, drivers can select their own on-board ambience from four ranges of polyphonic sounds – Classic, Crystal Symphony, Jungle Fantasy & Urban Rythmik -for alerts and reminders; select from three air-conditioning flow levels – soft, average & intense; and choose from an array of colours for the instrument panel – spanning from white to blue.

Drivers can access all key driving and comfort controls – which are clearly visible and even backlit for night-time use – without taking their hands off the wheel.

For complete peace-of-mind, DS4 is also equipped with a range of safety-enhancing technologies:

* The Citroën eTouch Assistance System automatically or manually makes emergency or assistance calls, using a built-in SIM card, for rapid intervention in the event of an accident or if the car is immobilised.

* Front fog lamps with static cornering lights provide an extra beam that increases visibility when turning – by up to 75° to the left and right of the vehicle. The lights automatically illuminate when the driver indicates or turns the wheel to an angle of more than 60°.

* A blind-spot monitoring system – based on the same technology as reversing parking sensors – the four ultrasound sensors alert the driver if a vehicle is in their blind spot ( an area stretching to around 5m behind the rear bumper and 3.5m from each side of the car). The driver is alerted by means of a pictogram displayed in the wing mirrors.

* Programmable cruise control with speed limiter also allows drivers to pre-set cruising and top speeds for added safety and convenience on the open road.

FIRST-CLASS SERVICE

When launched, DS4 will be available with first-class customer service. Citroën FreeDrive, first introduced with DS3, is a distinctive package for DS4 owners, providingcomplete peace-of-mind with an extensive range of services that can be personalised to meet the specific needs of the customer. FreeDrive contracts can be tailored to cover:

* scheduled and annual servicing
* periodic maintenance
* replacement of wear and tear items
* Citroën Assistance (Roadside/At Home/Recovery/Onward Travel/European Cover)
* replacement vehicle during regular servicing, MOT Testing
* valet cleaning during servicing.

FreeDrive also offers optional tyre replacement cover, a ‘Pick-up’ service from the customer’s home or workplace, or a ‘Pick-up & Delivery’ service.

Press Release:

CITROËN DS3 R3: THE NEW STANDARD

In addition to Citroën Racing’s official participation in WRC, where it has won five FIA World Championship Constructors’ titles, Citroën Racing has always offered products designed for customers. The champion team has now furthered this rich tradition with Citroën DS3 R3, a model set to make its rallying debut at the end of 2010. Versatile, high performance and yet affordably-priced, DS3 R3 is set to become the new leader in its category.

Based on the FIA’s new Group R3T regulations, DS3 R3 features the same structural design and appearance as the production model, with the production steel body shell reinforced by a welded, multi-point roll cage, improving the resilience of the chassis and safety for the driver pairing.

Under the bonnet lies a four-cylinder 1.6-litre THP (high pressure turbo) engine, which has been developed using the PSA production engine. Specific racing parts (air box, camshaft, pistons, connecting rods, exhaust and turbo systems, electronic unit, etc.) have been deployed to boost the car’s power to 210bhp. In addition to its overall power, special attention has been given to increasing the engine’s torque to improve traction, one of the key factors in delivering efficient driving performance. With 350Nm, the DS3 R3 engine offers unrivalled flexibility on the road.

DS3 R3 has benefitted from the extensive expertise acquired by Citroën Racing through its involvement in the World Rally Championship. As with the C4 WRC, the six-speed gearbox features semi-automatic sequential control, enabling gear changes to be made twice as quickly as with a manual gearbox, whilst also improving the reliability of the car’s powertrain.

The suspension system uses the very latest technologies and has been designed for all road surfaces, from rough gravel to smooth tarmac. A wide variety of setup options are available, allowing DS3 R3 to be adapted to all driving styles. Citroën Racing recommends the use of BFGoodrich tyres.

Built using production-derived components and specific racing parts, DS3 R3 is available at an affordable price and will be marketed by Citroën Racing in kit and ready-to-race versions.

CHASSIS: CITROËN RACING, EXPERTS WHEN IT COMES TO SAFETY

Citroën Racing has deployed its extensive expertise in passive safety and chassis rigidity on DS3 R3. The standard monocoque chassis is lighter because it does not have the supports used on the production model. It has been re-welded and fitted with a multi-point roll cage made of over 45 metres of steel tubing. The industrially designed roll cage is pre-assembled outside the car, which means the welding is of a higher quality. Various details of the chassis design, such as the harness cross-member and the door crossbars, help to improve safety for the driver pairing. The monocoque chassis is delivered with all the brackets and mountings required to assemble the car, which reduces the construction time and cost.

In order to improve weight distribution, the battery and automatic fire extinguisher are positioned behind the seats. A steel skidplate protects the underside of the engine and also helps to lower the car’s centre of gravity. The flexible, FIA-homologated fuel tank remains in its original position.

GROUND LINK SYSTEMS: ADAPTABLE AND HIGH-PERFORMANCE SUSPENSION

DS3 R3’s efficiency on all road surfaces stems from the quality of its suspension system, designed to make full use of the Group R regulations. At the front, the production sub-frame has been altered so that tubular wishbones can be fitted. The axle is both lighter and stronger than on the production model. Developed in conjunction with BOS, the shock absorbers boast several innovative features:

- The aluminium struts are lubricated in an oil bath, which improves the consistency and lifespan of the suspension.

- The lower, frontally-offset anchor point helps increase the travel and the guiding length of the shock absorber.

In order to adapt its road handling to all driving styles, DS3 R3 offers a variety of setup options: three track shock absorbers (low and high-speed compression and rebound, adjustable hydraulic bump stop), camber and toe (front and rear), track width and castor (front).

At the rear, the production cross-member has been reinforced and altered to make it easier to fit the anti-roll bar. The removable rear wheel hubs allow the camber and toe settings to be adjusted independently.

The braking system features a ‘pedal box’ assembly with two master cylinders. The discs are held in place by four-calliper pistons at the front and two-calliper pistons at the rear. The handbrake is hydraulic.

ENGINE: A 1.6-LITRE HIGH-PRESSURE TURBO WITH INCREDIBLE TORQUE

For the first time ever, Citroën Racing has produced a customer-racing product fitted with a turbocharged engine. The experience acquired by the brand in WRC for almost ten years has been put to good use in its design. The 1.6-litre THP (high pressure turbo) engine is very closely related to the production model used throughout the PSA Group. Fitted with a regulation-compliant 29mm turbo flange, it develops 210bhp of power and generates a torque of 350Nm (with commercially available fuel). This second value improves traction and delivers excellent versatility at all engine speeds.

In accordance with the regulations, many parts have been taken or derived from the production model. For example, the intake and exhaust manifolds, turbocharger, injectors and injection pumps are identical to those used on production models. The air filter, camshaft, pistons, connecting rods and engine flywheel are, however, specific racing parts. To avoid oil surges during long corners and to increase ground clearance, the oil sump has been altered and fitted with a composite partition. The exhaust and turbocharger system is also specific; the catalytic converter is similar to the one used on C4 WRC. DS3 R3’s engine ECU also includes a data acquisition system that is able to check a large number of parameters.

GEARBOX: A MAJOR FIRST WITH SEMI-AUTOMATIC CONTROL

One of the main innovations on DS3 R3 concerns its gearbox. For the first time, a customer-racing product has been fitted with a semi-automatic gearbox, which reduces the time spent changing gears and increases reliability. The electronic management system only authorises gear changes when the engine parameters allow it. Once again, the expertise developed by Citroën Racing in WRC enabled this cutting-edge technology to be adapted to DS3 R3.

Inside the cabin, the composite fibre steering wheel-mounted paddles are just as ergonomic as on C4 WRC: the driver flicks the paddle backwards to move up the gears and flicks it forwards to move down the gears. The clutch pedal is still present, but is only used to drive off. During subsequent gear changes, the clutch is automatically controlled.

Under the bonnet, the specific elements of the semi-automatic control (solenoid valves, actuators and pressure unit) have all been taken from the production model and adapted to the six-speed gearbox. The housing for the twin-disc clutch has been cast in aluminium, whilst the gearing casing has been cut from the block.

DEVELOPMENT: OVER 10,000KM OF TESTING

After twelve months spent in Citroën Racing’s design office, DS3 R3 made its first outing at the end of August 2009. To check the sturdiness of the various components, initial testing was carried out on ‘rough gravel’ test tracks, typical of the road surfaces seen in Mediterranean rallies. Development testing continued on tarmac, the ideal surface to test performance, and on flowing gravel roads. In total, DS3 R3 covered over 10,000km in development testing, split evenly among the different types of road surfaces.

Several drivers took part in the tests. They all had varying levels of experience, different preferences and driving styles, which meant that the engineers could accumulate data that will benefit future DS3 R3 owners. All of the drivers agreed that the car was easy to drive and highlighted three strengths: the torque of the 1.6-litre engine, the semi-automatic gearbox and the suspension. DS3 R3 offers impressive performance levels and looks set to become the new leader in its category in rallying.