Frankfurt show star: Citroen DS3
The concept of the DS3 has been kicking about for some time, and we're pleased to report that the production version, unveiled today (September 15th), is remarkably familiar; the DS3 should have MINI and Fiat worried.
What's all the fuss about?
Three things: firstly there's another rival for the MINI and the Fiat 500 in the premium small car segment; secondly it'll be priced closer to the Italian; and thirdly, perhaps most importantly, Citroen may very well be back to making really good small cars again.
Anything that stands out?
Citroen is well versed in the art of making cars with unusual aesthetics, but the DS3 manages to combine oddness with a look of aggressive sportiness. It's the glasshouse that really does it: the shark fin B-pillar, for a start, and the fact there are no C-pillars at all. But despite all that glass, Citroen promises it has kept weight to a minimum, despite the DS3 boasting similar proportions to a Ford Fiesta. The cabin is the same as we'll get in the C3 next year too.
The materials are a notch above anything we've ever seen in a Citroen supermini, and because the French maker hopes to steal sales away from its two key rival from Britain and Italy, there'll be a myriad of colour and material options available; it's all about personalisation in this sector.
When can I buy one?
From March 2010, although from this very day (15th September 2009) 100 cars have been made available for people to order exclusively online, then receive first deliveries in Spring. Five engines will come at launch: two 1.6-litre HDi diesels of 90bhp and 110bhp outputs (the former with just 99g/km of CO2), and petrol units ranging from 95bhp to 150bhp. A bigger DS4 is on the way in 2011 too.
Frankfurt show star: Citroen DS3 pictures
