PARIS — PSA has revealed the 2010 Citroën DS3 compact ahead of its official unveiling at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show. It is the first model of the resurrected DS line, a range that will eventually consist of three distinct models.
We first saw the vehicle when pictures were leaked back in February, and the French automaker then showcased the DS Inside concept at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show. The car measures 155.5 inches long and 67.3 inches wide — just slightly longer than a standard Mini Cooper.
Buyers will have the choice between two diesel and three gasoline engines when the car goes on sale. The 90-horsepower and 110-hp diesel units will feature Citroën's diesel particulate filter, and the gas units will be available in 95-hp, 120-hp and 150-hp variants, mated to a five- or six-speed manual gearbox. Six airbags, ESP, ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist (EBA) are all standard.
Like the Mini Cooper, each DS3 has contrasting black A-, B- and C-pillars. However, a "shark-fin"-shaped B-pillar separates the sporty compact from its competitors. Other exterior features include a body kit, alloy wheels, LED lights in the front and the choice of black, white, blue or red for the "floating" roof. The mirrors, wheels and center caps can also be personalized in a variety of colors.
Citroën also allows buyers to customize the interior dashboard strip (which includes the air vents, instrument cluster and multifunction screens) in one of six finishes. Navigation, Bluetooth and an audio system are some of the available options.
The DS3 goes on sale late this year in France and will hit U.K. showrooms in the spring of 2010.
Inside Line says: The DS3 compact has sporty looks and plenty of personalization options for owners. We'll see how it sizes up against competitors after it goes on sale. — Mike Lysaght, Correspondent
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