C’est magnifique! Having whetted the appetite of the world’s press with pictures of its Numero 9 Concept beforehand (we ran an earlier story here), Citroen finally bared all at Auto China 2012 in a dark, classy setting, complete with intricate chandelier hanging just inches from the car’s roof.

Take in that aggressively raked windscreen and rear end adorned with a C-shaped rear spoiler, and those flashy 21-inch wheels. It’s got a profile not unlike that of a shooting brake, and brings a Ferrari FF to mind. Citroen say this concept combines the design cues of a future C- and D-segment sedan and SUV for the DS brand.

You say 9 in French – neuf – and this svelte black beauty could well become the DS9, the big, luxury sedan in the premium DS range, and therefore the true spiritual successor to the legendary Citroen DS of the 1950s. To illustrate this, an original DS 23, in immaculate condition, was placed just across the stand from the new car.

The Numero 9 has a plug-in hybrid powertrain involving a 225 hp 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and an 70 hp electric motor. There is a ‘boost’ function that when activated, Citroen say, will unleash all 300 hp for a 5.4-second 0-100 km/h time.

Citroen’s upmarket DS range currently comprises the DS3, DS4 and DS5, all of which are about to go on sale in China.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Citroën Numéro 9 concept car to be unveiled in Beijing
2. PSA Peugeot Citroën forms alliance with GM – platform sharing, joint purchasing and development on the cards
3. Citroën C4 Aircross set for world premiere in Geneva
4. Citroën DS3 Racing S. Loeb limited edition – just 200 units
5. Citroën DS4 Racing concept – a 256 hp 1.6 litre scorcher
6. GM and PSA Peugeot-Citroen in possible alliance talks
7. Citroën C3 Picasso Code – playing dress up, this SE
8. Citroen C4 Aircross – the French Mitsubishi ASX
9. Citroen Tubik Concept – an odd looking moving apartment
10. PSA Peugeot Citroen-Changan JV gets govt green light

It looks like Citroën will be very busy during the Beijing Motor Show because the French carmaker will be introducing the DS line to the Chinese. And to highlight the occasion, Citroën will be unveiling their latest DS concept, Numéro 9.

Penned in Paris, the Numéro 9 is Citroën’s interpretation of the shooting brake body style, which is basically a love child between a coupé and an estate. And since it is part of the DS line, Numéro 9 gets all of the radical styling like the floating roof and signature grille as well as proportions purposely designed to contribute to the car’s aerodynamic efficiency, which is rated at a CdA of 0.61.

The dimensions for the Numéro 9 are 1270 mm tall, 1,940 mm wide, 1,270 mm tall and a wheelbase of 3,000 mm. Plenty of space for the passengers. The sheet metal features subtle hints of violet on deep-black bodywork. The finishing is called ‘Whisper’, which Citroën says is a perfect match for the warmer ‘Californian’ chrome finish. The Numéro 9 uses the ‘Créative Technologie’ that endows the car with a combination of comfort, safety and respect for the environment.

The powertrain consists of a conventional petrol or diesel engine (depending on the market) with an electric motor that drives the rear axle. The motor develops 70hp and 200Nm of torque and is powered by lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged in just 3.5 hours from a standard home socket. Citroën will display the Numéro 9 with the 1.6 THP petrol engine that generates 225 hp and 275 Nm of torque.

According to Citroën, the plug-in hybrid car has a range of 50 km in all-electric mode and uses both sources of energy to move in typical city conditions. It also puts the combustion engine on standby when it is not needed. On highways, the combustion engine works full time to deliver performance. There’s also a ‘boost’ function that adds the power of the electric motor to give the more power, up to 295 hp. It takes Numéro 9 5.4 seconds to complete the century sprint and 25.3 seconds to travel 1,000 metre from standing.

As for grip, the car switches to four-wheel drive mode; the electric motor helps the rear with the combustion engine powering the front. The driver can manually select 4WD mode if conditions get too difficult. Suspension system uses a hydraulic active setup.

I guess we’ll have to wait for more information that will come when the car is fully unveiled.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Two Honda concepts teased ahead of Beijing Motor Show
2. Porsche Cayenne GTS set for Beijing debut – 420 hp V8
3. Bufori to showcase YTL’s Geneva in China, also plans to open showrooms in Beijing, Chengdu and Shenzhen
4. BMW i8 Spyder Concept – topless i8 set for Beijing debut
5. Citroën DS4 Racing concept – a 256 hp 1.6 litre scorcher
6. Bertone Nuccio concept to be unveiled in Geneva
7. Chevrolet MPV Concept unveiled at Delhi Auto Expo 2012
8. BYD-Daimler set to roll out electric concept at Beijing show
9. Citroen Tubik Concept – an odd looking moving apartment
10. BMW M3 DTM Concept unveiled – looking towards 2012

PSA Peugeot Citroën and General Motors have formed an alliance. The move will see the US carmaker buy a 7% stake in PSA as part of a share issue by the French automaker. GM says it expects to spend from $400 million to $470 million on that.

“This partnership brings tremendous opportunity for our two companies. The alliance synergies, in addition to our independent plans, position GM for long-term sustainable profitability in Europe,” said GM CEO Dan Akerson. But “each company will continue to market and sell its vehicles independently and on a competitive basis,” the statement added.

The scope of the alliance includes the sharing of vehicle platforms, components and modules, and the creation of a global purchasing joint venture for the sourcing of commodities, components and other goods and services from suppliers with combined annual volumes of approximately $125 billion. Bigger buyer gets better deals, as always.

There is also talk on joint development. GM and PSA said the alliance will at first focus on small and midsize vehicles, MPVs and crossovers. The carmakers may also develop a new common platform for low emission vehicles, with the first model expected to debut in 2016.

Cost savings from the deal will be limited in the first two years, but will eventually amount to $2 billion annually, split equally, the companies said. The deal is expected to close and take effect by the second half of this year.

GM is certainly not new in linking up with other companies. The US carmaker had shares in Suzuki Motor Corp, Isuzu Motors and Subaru maker Fuji Heavy Industries before disposing off the stakes few years ago. In the same period, but in Europe, GM had to pay Fiat to end an unsuccessful alliance. They also flirted with Renault-Nissan before. GM’s Opel brand is not doing well at all in Europe, and this move has it in mind.

On the other hand, Peugeot has a better track record with other carmakers, including JVs to build commercial vans with Fiat and an engine partnership with BMW. PSA also makes diesel powertrains with Ford and sells Mitsubishi models in Europe with its own face and badge.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. GM and PSA Peugeot-Citroen in possible alliance talks
2. Daimler-Nissan joint engine production in US begins 2014
3. Peugeot Blue Box Kota Kinabalu commences operations – Peugeot 508 also introduced in Sabah
4. Bentley gets a £3 million conditional grant allocation to support development of new powertrain applications
5. Mitsubishi begins i-MiEV joint testing with PTT in Thailand
6. Proton and Mitsubishi strategic collaboration – Proton to build cars/engines for MMC, parts sharing for small car!
7. Nissan plans ASEAN expansion – Thailand and Indonesia integral to six-year development plan
8. Saab and Youngman to form joint venture to develop three new models: the 9-1, 9-6 and 9-7
9. PSA Peugeot Citroen-Changan JV gets govt green light
10. Nissan-Mitsubishi minicar joint venture underway

It was announced back in September last year, but now the real deal is set to make its official debut in Geneva. The Citroën C4 Aircross will get its world premiere next week at the Swiss show, and the French take on the Mitsubishi ASX will wear a special colour for the occasion.

The Geneva show car will be finished in an all-new Vapor Gray frosted-texture paint. The roof bars, door mirrors and door handles are all chrome-finished to match the new colour, while the two-tone diamond-effect wheel rims sport the same Vapor Gray tone as the interior.

Engine choices for the vehicle, as previously reported, are PSA’s 1.6 litre HDi 110 engine, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox as well as a HDi 150, both available in 2WD or 4WD form. There’s also a 115 hp 1.6 litre petrol engine with 2WD and 5-speed manual transmission option.

The C4 Aircross will feature a wide range of equipment, including NaviDrive satnav with touch screen & reversing camera, hands-free access and ignition, a Rockford Hi-Fi system as well as an integrated server for storing music.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Citroën DS4 Racing concept – a 256 hp 1.6 litre scorcher
2. Maserati GranTurismo Sport facelift to premiere in Geneva
3. Citroën C3 Picasso Code – playing dress up, this SE
4. Honda Small Sports EV concept to premiere in Tokyo
5. Subaru BRZ Concept STI to premiere in LA
6. Citroen C4 Aircross – the French Mitsubishi ASX
7. Citroen Tubik Concept – an odd looking moving apartment
8. World premiere for new SEAT concept sedan at Frankfurt?
9. MINI John Cooper Works Coupé Endurance – all set to premiere at the 24 Hours Nürburgring
10. Opel Astra GTC revealed ahead of Frankfurt premiere

Now, if you’ve got a highly bankable name, why not use it on a special edition? Well, Citroën have decided to do just that, slapping Sebastian Loeb’s moniker on the DS3 Racing and coming up with the DS3 Racing S.Loeb limited edition, which will debut in Geneva.

The model is a signed and numbered series of just 200 examples, based on the DS3 Racing variant, and features distinctive use of colours and materials. The body is cloaked in a unique matte black colour, with a textured effect.

The company says the special finish is not only robust, but also highlights the lines of the car. Meanwhile, the roof, door mirrors, grille, dashboard fascia and gearstick base all feature a contrasting shade of red, and the car also gets special decals and, as an exclusive limited series, sports a numbered identification plate on the roof lining.

There’s no mention of whether the car has been souped-up any more than the base version, which offers 200 hp, a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds and a 235 km/h top speed.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Citroën DS4 Racing concept – a 256 hp 1.6 litre scorcher
2. Peugeot 208 Ice Velvet – limited edition of 650 units
3. Audi A1 quattro: 256 hp and 350 Nm, only 333 units
4. Hyundai sells 2.95 million units worldwide through third quarter 2011 – sales up by 10% over same period in 2010
5. Honda City Special Edition launched – limited to 500 units
6. Sebastien Loeb pens new deal to stay with Citroen till 2013
7. Perodua sales up by 85%, orders for new Myvi hit 25k units
8. MINI One – limited edition 31 units to debut in early August 2011 – more details unveiled!
9. Fiat 500 “First Edition” arrives in China – only 100 units
10. Carbon loaded BMW M3 CRT – 70 kg lighter, only 67 units

Citroën is set to debut a hot-blooded concept in Geneva next month, and this one will feature the most horsepower ever seen in a Citroën series production car. It’s called the DS4 Racing concept, a barnstormer developed by Citroën Racing, the brand’s seven-time WRC winning motorsports division.

Its Citroën Racing-derived 1.6 litre turbo petrol engine offers 256 hp (essentially, 160 hp per litre), which should translate to pretty quick. In addition to plonking in the merry mill, the boys at Citroën Racing have modified the chassis and running gear – the chassis has been lowered by 35 mm, and the track widened by 55 mm at the front and 75 mm at the rear.

Meanwhile, the braking system boasts fixed four-piston callipers at the front together with special 380 mm diameter discs, and the DS4 Racing gets kitted out with 19-inch wheels and 235/40 series tyres. New carbon fibre components are also on, and these include an air diffuser, front splitter and wheel arch extensions.

The car will be finished in a textured-effect matte grey paint, which the company says catches the light to further enhance the lines of the car. Further exterior refinements include a two-tone roof, and the special DS4 Racing design wheels are also done in a two-tone finish.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

Yes, another special edition, this time from Citroën; over in the UK, the company has introduced the C3 Picasso Code, which replaces the previous Blackcherry special edition. The Code edition is effectively a HDi 90 manual VTR+ version, with added equipment.

The base car already has a fair amount of kit, but the C3 Picasso Code gains a ‘Look Pack’ that features more dress-up bits, like 17-inch ‘Clover’ alloy wheels in either Polar White or Cherry Red, depending on body colour, chrome lower bumper inserts and shiny black painted door handles, again featuring chrome for the inserts.

There are also Obsidian Black painted front/rear bumpers and door mirrors, the latter tarted up further with a shiny black surround and base plate, as well as longitudinal roof bars. A choice of four external shades – Polar White, Cherry Red, Belle Ile Blue and Thorium Grey – round off the list.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Citroën C4 launched, RM126k – DS4 coming Feb 2012
2. WRC star Sebastien Ogier leaves Citroen for Volkswagen
3. Citroen DS4 at Brooklands Sungai Besi – launching soon?
4. Citroen C4 Aircross – the French Mitsubishi ASX
5. Citroen Tubik Concept – an odd looking moving apartment
6. Sebastien Loeb pens new deal to stay with Citroen till 2013
7. PSA Peugeot Citroen-Changan JV gets govt green light

Brooklands Motors has officially launched the second-generation Citroën C4 in Malaysia – the five-door hatch was unveiled last night at the company’s new 3S centre and HQ in Petaling Jaya. The night also saw the introduction of the DS4, which will arrive in February next year.

The C4 is available in a single engine form, the familiar THP156 1.6 litre turbo mill, with 156 hp and 240 Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed EGS auto gearbox. Performance specs for the car are a 212 km/h top speed and 0-100 km/h sprint time of 9.6 seconds.

The RM125,990 car comes in a single trim line, this being Exclusive, and standard to the level are 17-inch Phoenix alloys and 225/45 series tyres as well as seats finished in Mistral ‘Saint Cyr’ cloth. A RM7,000 optional accessories package bags 18-inch Newport wheels – and 225/40 rubbers – and Mistral ‘Claudia’ leather seats, which come with a built-in massage function. The package also adds dynamic bi-xenon headlamps into the equation.

Among the standard kit are a dual-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, blind spot monitoring system, front fog lamps, Denon audio system, USB connectivity and an adjustable colour meter cluster, as well as four distinct polyphonic sound themes for driver alerts.

There’s a choice of nine external colour shades, these being Babylon Red, Polar White, Fluid Grey, Motivoire Beige, Bourrasque Blue, Arctic Steel, Shark Grey, Hickory Brown and Perla Nera Black.

Meanwhile, two Prince engine choices are to be had for the upcoming DS4, the THP 156 and THP 200, the EP6CDTX offering 200 hp and 275 Nm for numbers. Two transmission options abound, the THP 156 with the six-speed EGS and the THP 200 with a six-speed manual.

Fitted kit includes a blind spot monitoring system, cruise control and panoramic sunroof, and plenty of customisable options for the interior, which features a lot of chrome detailing – there’s a choice of five leather combinations, including two-tone options, and range-topping models are also equipped with high quality leather complete with a ‘Bracelet’ design on the seats, much like the links of a watch strap.

As standard, the DS4 wears 18-inch wheels, but there’s a 19-inch option. The DS4 is expected to be priced from RM150,000 onwards – for the THP 156 – when it goes on sale in February.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

Highly rated World Rally Championship (WRC) driver Sebastien Ogier has joined Volkswagen after exiting the sport’s top team Citroen. The Frenchman, who was a strong and competitive teammate to 2011 champ and living legend Seb Loeb, will be replaced by Finn Mikko Hirvonen at Citroen.

Ogier, who left Citroen with a year remaining on his contract, is joining Volkswagen effective immediately. The 27-year-old ex Junior World Rally Championship champion will now be helping the development of the Polo R WRC for VW’s planned 2013 entry. This means that we won’t see him in action next season.

“Volkswagen is the number one in Europe and will soon be number one in the world. I’m sure that they’re going to compete with the goal of clinching the WRC title. And I’m happy to be part of this from the outset,” Ogier said.

“We are proud that such a successful and quick duo as Sebastian Ogier and his co-driver Julien Ingrassia have decided to join Volkswagen. The aim of putting a competitive Polo R WRC on the road for them as quickly as possible will additionally drive our team. We look forward to working with them and are hoping for many victories and titles in the future,” said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen.

VW confirmed its 2013 WRC entry and previewed the Polo R WRC back in May. Click here to view a video of it.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Volkswagen Up! – you can squeeze 16 people into one
2. Citroen DS4 at Brooklands Sungai Besi – launching soon?
3. Citroen C4 Aircross – the French Mitsubishi ASX
4. Volkswagen e-up! Concept: production car due in 2013
5. Citroen Tubik Concept – an odd looking moving apartment
6. Volkswagen NILS – one for all, and all for one
7. Sebastien Loeb pens new deal to stay with Citroen till 2013
8. PSA Peugeot Citroen-Changan JV gets govt green light
9. Volkswagen Eos facelift now available – RM257,888
10. Volkswagen Golf24: 450 hp beast set to take on Nürburgring

Reader Theyson snapped some pics of this Citroen DS4 at Brooklands Motors’ Sungai Besi HQ in KL. We can’t confirm, but according to him, this sole unit is brought in for JPJ testing purposes, which could mean that Brooklands is looking to introduce this model in Malaysia soon?

Unveiled at Paris 2010, the DS4 is the second model in Citroen’s DS range after the DS3. It is based on the Citroen C4, but with difference is styling as well as a higher grade interior. It’s available with a choice of five engines in Europe – two HDi diesels and three petrol engines. The most powerful of the latter is a 200 hp THP, joined by a THP 155 and a VTi 120. All three are variants of the 1.6-litre BMW-PSA Prince engine that also feature in Peugeots and MINIs.

But while sister brand Peugeot mates the engines with a six-speed automatic, Citroen prefers its EGS transmission, which is an AMT-style automated clutch manual. The good old stick shift is the preferred choice in Europe.

With the path opened by Peugeot and VW, there has never been a better time than now to bring in European hatchbacks. The DS4 won’t have the backing of a huge support network, but the few who buy it will surely stand out in a sea of 308s and Golfs.

Read all about the DS4 and view the official gallery here.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

Here’s a Citroen for C-segment hatchback buyers that want some SUV looks and a taller ride height. The Citroen C4 Aircross will hit the market in the first half of next year as a rival to the Ford Kuga, Volkswagen Tiguan and Nissan Qashqai. Like the Mitsubishi Outlander based Citroen C-Crosser, this C4 Aircross is a French take on a Mitsubishi, in this case the ASX compact crossover.

Although the ASX’s compact proportions and that signature profile line remain, there’s no mistaking the C4 Aircross for anything but a Citroen. The Aircross’ light signature, visible by day and at night, is formed by the LEDs at the front, which are vertically aligned in the aerodynamic vents. The shape of the 18-inch wheels and the rear lights, directly inspired by the Hypnos concept car, has been reworked for optimal air flow.

Measuring 4,340 mm long, 1,800 mm wide and 1,630 mm high, the five seater Aircross has a 442 litre boot. A good portion of the roof is made up of a large panoramic glass. At night, the roof is lit up by the LED light guides built into it.

The C4 Aircross will come with PSA’s HDi 110 engine, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Citroen says that this model will be one of the front-runners in its segment in terms of CO2 emissions. More performance comes in the form of the HDi 150 engine. Both are available in 2WD or 4WD form. It won’t be popular, but a 115 hp 1.6L petrol engine with 2WD and a 5-speed manual is also available.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Mitsubishi Pajero Sport VGT – 178 PS, 350 Nm, RM167,375
2. Mitsubishi begins i-MiEV joint testing with PTT in Thailand
3. Citroen Tubik Concept – an odd looking moving apartment
4. Sebastien Loeb pens new deal to stay with Citroen till 2013
5. Mitsubishi Triton RA Edition – extra kit, only 500 units
6. Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback RA Edition – only 100 units
7. PSA Peugeot Citroen-Changan JV gets govt green light
8. Mitsubishi to double production in Thailand by next year
9. Mitsubishi i-MiEV – two new trim levels, extended range

Wacky and out of the world concepts are not as common as before, as more carmakers put their resources where it matters. Many concepts these days are already “on the way” or very near production when they hit the motor shows. But trust Citroen to faithfully churn out machines that can drop jaws. After all, how many companies have the word “Creative” in their motto?

This odd looking toaster on wheels is the Tubik Concept. The word Tubik came from the word “TUB”, the nickname of Citroen’s WW2 era delivery van. The TUB’s successor, the Type H, sold half a million units in 34 years on the market. If you know how TUB and his son look like (Google Citroen H Van), you’ll understand why the Tubik has such a snout and a separate head – the old timers look quite cute as well!

But the link is just for the looks. While the H Van was mainly used as a goods delivery van, the Tubik Concept is more like a moving apartment based on one key idea: travel should be fun. The Tubik can ferry nine people max, but when that’s not needed, the cabin can be turned into a lounge style cocoon.

The modular seats, designed to be arranged in different ways (semi-reclined, face-to-face, etc.) and the onboard technology (including a giant, semi-circular screen, and high-definition spatialised sound) turn the cabin into an area “for living and sharing.”

Each seat is independent for maximum comfort. The first row of seats lets two people sit facing the road or facing the other passengers.

The middle row can seat up to three people or, alternatively, it can be converted into a small table, be folded onto the last row to free up an area of almost two by two meters, or be folded out completely to create a “meridienne-style” seat. Passengers become spectators here, directed to the large multimedia screen in a semi-reclined position.

The “moucharaby” and large two-way panoramic window are an original way for passengers to see out easily, without others looking in. Shady businessmen and amorous couples will love it!

More pics of the van of tomorrow is after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Cadillac Ciel Concept is all about the romance of the drive
2. No more teasing, Infiniti JX Concept is now fully revealed
3. Frankfurt preview: B-segment SsangYong Concept XUV 1
4. Frankfurt preview: Jaguar C-X16 production concept
5. Sebastien Loeb pens new deal to stay with Citroen till 2013
6. Daihatsu A Concept scale model – is this the new 30km/l concept car for IIMS?
7. PSA Peugeot Citroen-Changan JV gets govt green light
8. BMW M3 DTM Concept unveiled – looking towards 2012
9. Ford reveals FPV Concept – it’s black all the way
10. BMW to unveil M3 DTM Concept Car next month

Sebastien Loeb, who has won the WRC title seven times running with Citroen, has just penned a new two-year deal that will keep him with the French team till 2013.

After doing it all, the living rally legend had an itch for a new challenge, a new discipline even. “At one point, actually, I wanted a change of scenery. But as I said, between saying and thinking and actually doing it is very different! I thought of new challenges, but ultimately, I am staying, and that’s fine. I am relieved to have made this decision and to continue,” Loeb said, adding that “after careful consideration, I thought that the DTM or the endurance races will have to wait a little.”

He also revealed that Volkswagen tried to pull him over. “I had a proposal from VW, which I must admit had my full attention. The means of VW are very important, superior to Citroen that is clear,” referring to the resources of the Germans.

“With Citroen I evolved, learned a lot, and I won my titles and did not want to hurt the team. They would feel that I had betrayed them by going to another manufacturer. My relationship with the team, with the management of the PSA, the engineers, the mechanics has always been excellent and I did not want to spoil everything.

“With the arrival of other manufacturers in the championship, the competition is going to get tougher in the years to come. All the more so with the rule changes concerning the starting order coming in 2012 as all the drivers will be fighting on a level playing field. To take the fight to them I’m putting my trust in Citroen, a team I know inside out and the DS3 WRC, the car that I helped set up with Citroen Racing,” he shared.

Unlike many of today’s football players, this guy has loyalty. Salute!

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. PSA Peugeot Citroen-Changan JV gets govt green light

There’s plenty of car money to be made in China, and everyone is either striking deals, building plants or increasing output. Now, French automaker PSA Peugeot Citroen revealed that it has attained Chinese government approval for a production joint venture with China Changan Automobile Group. The approval comes exactly a year after both parties signed the JV agreement.

Located in Shenzhen, the 50:50 JV will have initial annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles and a similar amount of engines. Production is expected to start in the second half of 2012, comprising passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. Citroen’s DS line will be launched in China and a proprietary car brand is in the works. Initial investment in the JV will amount to 8.4 billion yuan, according to PSA.

This is actually PSA’s second production JV in China, after a similar setup with Dongfeng Motor Corp. That partnership sold 194,566 Citroens and Peugeots in the first six months of 2011, up 10.2% year-on-year. Buoyed by strong 408 sales, the Peugeot brand saw a 19% increase to 80,893 units, while Citroen sales jumped 6% to 113,673 units.

Closer to home, production of the Peugeot 408 (name not confirmed for our region yet) is scheduled to start by the end of 2011 at Naza’s Gurun plant.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

Related posts:

1. Frankfurt preview: Diesel electric hybrid Peugeot 508 RXH
2. Peugeot ’208′ to debut next year with new family look
3. Mad for matte: Limited edition Peugeot RCZ Asphalt for UK
4. Nasim expands Peugeot presence in Sabah
5. Peugeot 408 (T73 sedan) spotted undergoing camouflaged testing on the highway
6. Peugeot Design Competition seeks potential local talent

Citroen has unveiled the third model in its DS line in Shanghai, and this one is pretty much targeted at the executive segment. The DS5, as it’s called, is based on the C-SportLounge concept, and completes the intended Different Spirit range, the other two being the DS4 and DS3 hatch..

It’s the first model from the brand to feature HYbrid4 diesel hybrid technology, and in this case there’s 200 hp on tap in the four-wheel drive vehicle, which is encapsulated in a 4.52m long and 1.85m wide body.

You get five real seats, four doors and all the access and modularity of a hatchback, as well as a driving position worthy of a Gran Turismo coupe, so says Citroen. There’s good cargo space too, with up to 465 litres to be had in this one.

External design elements include an oversized air intake, a large chrome-finished grille that houses the chevrons, a new LED light signature and chrome-finished ‘sabre’ inserts that stretch from the top of each headlamp to the windscreen.

At the back, key strokes of a very meaty tail include twin tailpipes built into the rear bumper and a rear signature featuring six light guides. A sizeable range of alloy wheels, from 16- to 19-inchers, adds to the flourish.

Inside, the driver-focused cockpit features a coupe-like driving position with a near-vertical steering wheel and a wide central console. Plenty in the way of switchgear too – 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, aircraft-style.

There’s also push-start ignition, a colour Head-Up Display and lots of premium materials and design cues on call, from fine-grain Club leather to the watchstrap-pattern seat upholstery.

For its Shanghai debut, the DS5 on show appears in a one-off livery known as the Citroen DS5 White Pearl, wearing 20-inch alloys. The cabin on this one features ebony-coloured full-grain leather contrasted with silver-flecked overstitching, and interior detailing includes decorative inserts in Markassa ebony and a highly reflective, multi-layered lacquer fascia.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

This here is Heikki Juvonen’s E-3POD Antistatic, a single-seat concept that bagged the top prize in a Citroën sponsored project in the UK called the Double Challenge.

The project, jointly sponsored by French aerodynamic simulation software company EXA, required Royal College of Art MA second-year students to design a compelling ultra-compact model that could establish a unique Citroën e-vehicle aesthetic for the future.

Click to enlarge

Juvonen’s design was chosen as the best overall design by representatives from Citroën’s Style Centre and Electric Vehicle Development Team, and as his prize receives a six month employment contract to work at the prestigious PSA Design Centre in Paris.

His single-seat creation is a bold and engaging take on an urban three- wheel electric vehicle. The distinctive, aerodynamic styling features two smaller wheels at the front with the driver sitting inside a larger third wheel with an innovative hub-less design.

Click to enlarge

Designed for urban commuting, the ultra-light, micro segment, single-seater is not meant to replace cars, but rather an addition to the family transportation fleet, positioned between bikes and cars.

The short length of the vehicle makes it agile in urban environments; at higher speeds, the E-3POD tilts slightly to provide solid grip and an emphasised stance, giving cornering a more responsive feel.

Click to enlarge

The distinctive look of the electric design language was applied to distinguish the product from being associated to cars and for the avoidance of comparison in terms of operational range or refuelling/recharging time.

The E-3POD has a simplified, lightweight construction, with an emphasis on aerodynamics to minimise the required battery size. The lowered weight is emphasised in design elements such as the rear wheel, which works as a supportive structural element, the shared suspension for both front wheels, and the use of scratch resistant plastic for the canopy. The silent electric engines also make sound insulation redundant, allowing for lighter material selection.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

The handsome Citroen C5 has undergone a mild update, consisting of minor tweaks to the looks, new engines and an emergency assist system. Exterior wise, LEDs have been integrated into the headlights while the rear light clusters get a new ‘Dark Crystal’ treatment with clear glass in the central section. These model year 2011 changes are applicable to both saloon and Tourer versions.

The C5 range now has a full Euro 5 compliant engine line-up with the introduction of the 1.6 HDi 110 hp Euro 5 to replace the Euro 4 version. The 1.6 THP 155 hp petrol engine and the 3.0 HDi V6 240 hp unit have been re-homologated. Combined fuel economy increases from 14.1 km/l to 14.9 km/l and 13.5 km/l to 13.9 km/l respectively. CO2 emissions are also down 14 g/km and 6 g/km respectively.

European C5 customers can now enjoy Citroen’s new eTouch Emergency & Assistance System. This service automatically or manually makes emergency calls and allows manual assistance calls – using a built-in SIM card – for rapid response in the event of an accident or if the car is immobilised.

eTouch also allows drivers to consult information online at their ‘MyCITROEN’ personal space, which allows them to monitor their vehicle’s maintenance schedule. Available 24/7, these services are free.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

Having enjoyed a fruitful cooperation on engines thus far, BMW and PSA Peugeot Citroën is set to expand on the level of colloboration, with the joint development of hybrid components for front-wheel drive vehicles next on the cards.

The components will be used in front-wheel-drive vehicles with electrified drive trains. BMW and PSA state that joint development and component production, as well as shared purchasing, will allow not just standardisation of key elements for electric vehicles, but mean lower costs for both partners in the long run.

Earlier in the year, both companies agreed to develop the next generation of their jointly designed Prince four-cylinder petrol engine, which will meet EU 6 requirements.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

Sebastian Loeb who recently won the Rally de France has in effect secured his seventh World Rally Championship Title. He has now collected a total of 226 championship points making it impossible for the other drivers to play catch-up with two more races to go.

Citroen secured a one two finish with Loeb’s teammate Dani Sordo gaining the second fastest time. Sordo is only fifth in the Championship title, but this does mean that Citroen are winners of the manufacturers’ championship.

Thus the battle for 2nd and 3rd has commenced, with Sebastien Ogier currently in 2nd with 166 points and Jari-Matti Latvala in 3rd with 144. Kimi Raikkonen is 10th with a respectable 21 points. The two rallies left are the Spanish and the British leg of the Championship.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

We showed you the great looking Ford Fiesta RS WRC yesterday, and the car that it has to beat in next year’s World Rally Championship is this, the Citroen DS3 WRC.

If you’ve been on another planet, Citroen has won five Manufacturer’s World Champion titles and six Driver & Co-driver titles with Sébastien Loeb and Daniel Elena, and the Sebs (the other DS3 WRC will be driven by Sébastien Ogier) will be banking on this new machine to continue their dominance of the sport. In the current WRC season, with three rounds to go, Loeb leads the championship from Ogier and looks set for his seventh title. The guy is unbeatable.

Using the shell of their DS3 premium hatchback, Citroen’s new car replaces the C4 WRC and conforms to the new rules set by the FIA. More compact than its predecessor, the DS3 WRC uses a 300 hp 1.6-litre direct-injection turbocharged engine tuned by Citroen Racing. The 4WD transmission incorporates a six-speed sequential gearbox and front/rear mechanical differentials.

By the way, FIA’s new rules for next season was designed to limit the budgets required to compete in WRC. It bans expensive materials such as titanium and carbon fibre, while standardising parts like the turbocharger and limiting the changes that can be made to the car throughout the season.

Gallery after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

Visteon will be showcasing a concept vehicle at the 2010 Paris Motor Show called the C-Beyond, based on the Citroen C4 Picasso, developed in partnership with styling firm Estech.

The concept is meant to preview the company’s technologies as an auto component manufacturer to automakers and the general public. “These concepts are designed to inspire vehicle manufacturers to ‘see beyond’ the conventional role of the vehicle to create an innovative user experience enabled by Visteon’s technology and advanced development,” according to Visteon product group head, Steve Meszaros.

This will include advanced connectivity that provides driver coaching and real-time traffic updates for the navigation system. Personal comfort features on the other hand, will include their Visteon vertical airflow concept that creates four discrete vertical airflow zones. This allows for the omission of vents in the back, as it automatically adjusts the flow according to the amount of passengers in the car.

Apart from that it will also feature Visteon’s high-intensity headlamp LED projector module that provides all main beam patterns, camera-driven adaptive high-beam system along with a glare free mode. Not all innovations in automotive technology are developed by the manufacturers, alot of the time it’s the component suppliers that comes up with the new and cool stuff in their respective fields, and then they look for a pioneer automaker to adopt it.

A picture gallery is available after the jump – you should really look at every single photo – many of the new ‘concepts’ you’ll see could make it to production cars soon.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

The battle of the electrics has commenced! The all-electric Citroen Survolt concept recently went head to head with the fully electric Agni Z2 motorbike, at UK’s Thruxton Race Circuit. Behind the wheel of the Citroen Survolt was none other than Le Mans racer Vanina Ickx and piloting the electric bike was British superbike racer Jenny Tinmouth.

The Survolt concept as we know, is capable of accelerating to 100km/h in under 5 seconds, going on to reach a top speed of 260km/h thanks to it’s 220kW/300hp twin electric motors. It’s 31kW lithium ion batteries allow the Survolt to offer up to 200 kilometers in terms of driving range.

The Agni Z2 is no slouch either, even if it only produces about 50kW/65hp from its electric motor, it gets to the 100km/h mark in just 3.5 seconds! The two-wheeler’s top speed is figured at 209km/h.

Catch the video of the two ladies of motorsport in action, as they take their electric monsters round the track. But don’t expect to hear the screams of roaring engines, just the whine of electric motors. Look for a picture gallery and a video after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

Two French brands have teamed up to make a concept design set for a Paris preview. This will be Lacoste and Citroen with their new Citroen Lacoste Concept.

The car is motivated by a three-cylinder engine, which Citroen says provides “plenty of performance for a vehicle of its weight and size”. This is because its about the size of a Toyota Aygo or Citroen C1 and measures in at about 3.45m long, 1.80m wide and 1.52m high.

As you would expect, design of the car mainly concentrates on the whole Lacoste theme. This is seen on the car which sports “golf ball-styled” set of alloy wheels and parts of the body that resemble tennis nets.

They complement the unique feature roof, which is a structure that extends back to the boot like a convertible Jeep. Adding to that is the door-less architecture that gives it a roomy feel. Check out the picture gallery after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

Citoren has unveiled yet another new model in its DS range – the Citroen DS4, bringing the new modern DS line-up up to a total of two models so far.

It’s essentially a very high spec Citroen C4, using the same platform, however dimensions are a little different. It’s shorter, taller and wider than the C4, and while the interior pretty much has a similar design except with much higher grade materials, on the exterior you can notice that the shape of the car between the B and C pillar of the DS4 is noticeably shorter than the C4. The rear door handles have also been hidden in the window trim.

The Citroen DS4 will be available with a choice of 5 engines – two HDi diesels and three petrol engines. The most powerful is the 200 horsepower THP petrol engine, joined by a THP 155 and a VTi 120. All three are different variants of the 1.6 litre BMW-PSA Prince engine, with the THPs being turbocharged and the VTi being a normally aspirated model. You can either have these with a manual transmission or a Citroen EGS transmission which is an AMT-type automated clutch manual.

Look after the jump for more photos and a full press release.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

Brooklands/Competitive Supreme sent over sometime this month a new pricelist for the Citroen and Ssangyong cars they sell. There have been a few price changes but I saw something that piqued my interest – it looks like the 143 horsepower 2.0 litre Citroen Grand C4 Picasso has been replaced by a new model – the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso 1.6 Turbo with 6-speed EGS transmission. The horsepower increase looks minimal – it’s now 150 horsepower but torque is far higher now and also achieved at a very low RPM thanks to the turbocharger.

This makes it the first Citroen in Malaysia to be powered by the PSA-BMW Prince engine that we can find in MINIs and Peugeots on our local soil. The choice of gearbox is also quite interesting. BMW mates the engine in its MINI to a 6-speed Aisin transmission. Peugeot at first used a 4-speed Porsche Tiptronic transmission but are phasing this out in favor of a new 6-speed AT6 box, which like the MINI transmission is supplied by Aisin.

In the Grand C4 Picasso, the Prince engine is mated to a 6-speed BMP6 Electronic Gearbox System transmission from Magneti Marelli, which is basically a manual transmission with an electro-hydraulically operated clutch, much like Selespeed or BMW SMG. This will minimize transmission losses, allowing better fuel efficiency since more of the engine power can get to the wheels. But certain single-clutch AMT transmission can be notoriously rough, so we only find out how smooth Citroen’s EGS is with a test drive. This 6-speeder also includes steering mounted gearshift paddles. Peugeot has used this gearbox in the Peugeot RCZ Hybrid4 concept car.

The price tag has also dropped from the initial price of RM168,000 when the 2.0 litre normally aspirated model was first introduced to a new pricetag of RM158,740 OTR without insurance. UPDATE: The price is now at RM138k non-OTR – clearing stock? It looks like a nice alternative to your choice of a Honda Stream or what not but you may also want to wait for the upcoming Peugeot 5008 which basically rides on the same platform, has a similar engine (with extra 6 horsepower but the same torque) but a regular 6-speed automatic transmission instead of an automated manual. Compare the two before you decide.

I’n not sure whether Brooklands did a launch for this new C4 model or not – if they had one we weren’t invited. So this is basically all I can tell you based on the price list, international specs, and the info on Brooklands’ website. The other two cars offered by Citroen right now is the Citroen C5 2.0 Exclusive with automatic transmission for RM199,028.50 and the Citroen C6 3.0 V6 Exclusive with automatic transmission, going for RM400,645.

Over to the Ssangyong priceless, I was surprised to see the 11-seater Ssangyong Stavic’s price – it’s now going for only RM102,044.99, powered by a Mercedes-Benz 2.7 litre turbodiesel engine and a 5-speed auto. It’s seriously huge and that price is pretty value if you can get over the post-warranty maintenance and the looks of the monster. The Kyron SUV is going for RM151,113.20. The Actyon goes for RM89,989.20 for the pick-up truck and RM134,089.20 for the SUV. The large Rexton RX270 XDi SUV goes for RM169,828.60.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

The otherworldly Citroën Survolt racing car concept made its first all-electric laps of Le Mans circuit last weekend, at the Le Mans Classic event. First seen at this year’s Geneva show, the Survolt was piloted by Vanina Ickx, daughter of Belgian Formula One driver Jacky Ickx.

The experienced racer gave the Survolt the thumbs up. “I am very proud to have participated in this unique project. On the track it felt really good. It’s a real race car, with a very promising potential for the future,” she said

The Survolt, which features the same dramatic design language as the GTbyCITROËN (which was also driven on track) but in a more compact shape, is powered by a 140 kg lithium ion battery and two electric motors producing 300 hp. With that, the car does 0-100 km/h in less than five seconds on to a top speed of 260 km/h. The battery is good for a 200 km range and can be recharged in two hours with a specialised power supply or in 10 hours with a standard 220V plug.

Images after the jump.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

PSA Peugeot Citroen and Changan Automobiles have announced the finalization of a 50-50 JV in China, financed by an initial investment of 8.4 billion Yuan (RM4 billion).. First on their list is the introduction of the C3-based DS3 line up. The first vehicle is set to be launched in the second half of 2012.

The tie up will see the development of cars and light commercial vehicles with an initial annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles and engines at Shenzhen. The new factory will be running two lines, which will include the renovation of an existing production line and the addition of a second line. There are also plans for a new R&D centre to be built.

Apart from this new joint venture, PSA has a partnership with Dongfeng Motor Group Co to build Peugeot cars such as Peugeot 408 (which is somewhat like a 308 Sedan) and also Citroen C5 sedans. It looks like the rest of the Citroen line-up will be taken care by the Changan JV.

Source

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

Citroen have announced that they will make on board WiFi access available on most of their model line-up, which will include the new C3, C3 Picasso, C4, C4 Picasso, C5, C6 and DS3 models. The way it works is with the use of a 3G WiFi router much like a MiFi device which will act as a modem/router. It creates a wireless network within the vehicle when used with a 3G SIM card. This allows access to the internet using devices such as laptops, mobile phones and portable games consoles.

If by any chance you wish to take your vehicle abroad, the system deactivates itself avoiding expensive data costs. Citroen will charge you £545 for the pleasure of the internet in your car. With this move, Citroen joins the ranks of various other car makers which are offering MiFi-like devices in their cars such as Audi, GM and Chrysler. BMW’s iDrive also has the ability to use a SIM card to access data services however you can only use it with iDrive and not any external third party device.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

Citroen has revealed information and a teaser video of the electric concept Survolt ahead of the car’s debut at the Le Mans Classic on July 10th.

The car is motivated by two electric motors powered by twin 31kW lithium-ion batteries that produce a combined 300hp. This propels the electric sports car to the century mark in less than five seconds and goes on to reach a top speed of 260km/h. Driving range for this car will be 200 kilometres on a single charge while the batteries can either be replenished using a standard 220 volt outlet in 10 hours or with a rapid charger in 2 hours.

A car that combines economical driving and sporting performance, the car features a tubular chassis, flat underside with an extractor and full carbon bodywork. This gives the Survolt a kerb weight of just 1.15 tonnes and compact dimensions of 3.85m long, 1.87m wide and 1.2m high.

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.

This is the new Citroen DS3 R3, built to the FIA’s new Group R3T regulations. It features he same structural design and appearance as the production model, with the production steel body shell reinforced by a welded, multi-point roll cage.

The engine is the BMW PSA Prince 1.6 litre THP engine modified with uprated parts such as a racing air box, cams, pistons, conrods, exhaust system, turbo and ECU, helping boost power up to 210hp (with 350Nm torque) from the usual 156hp to 175hp range found in the production cars. The oil sump has been modified and fitted with a composite partiten to both increase ground clearance and avoid oil surges during long corners.

The engine is mated to a 6-speed sequential racing gearbox with paddle shifts, the same model in the C4 WRC. A clutch is still present but is only required to start from standstill – afterwards its just flicking the pedal forward to downshift and pull them back to upshift.

The car will be sold by Citroën Racing in kit and ready-to-race versions, so privateer teams can start buying it. The base car is a DS3 THP 150 and there’s a whole new list of 500 new parts required to turn it into the DS3 R3 – you can find this list after the jump.

COMPOSITION OF THE DS3 R3 KIT

(Marketed by Citroën Racing for assembly on a DS3 THP 150)

TARMAC RACING KIT (500 PARTS)

- Racing engine, assembled and bench-tested, ready to be mounted

- Gearbox, assembled and bench-tested, ready to be mounted

- Reinforced body shell, with roll-cage and seat attachment brackets and accessories (handbrake, ECUs, spare wheel, mounting brackets)

- Reinforced engine sub-frame

- Protective skidplate for engine and exhaust

- Adjustable front and rear suspension elements

- Reinforced hub carriers

- Adjustable specific front suspension wishbones

- Maximum size front and rear brake discs

- Front and rear specific brake callipers

- Reinforced rear axle

- Set of rear axle geometry adjustment shims

- Direct power-steering rack

- Specific braking system

- Specific ‘pedal box’ assembly

- Tarmac 7×17’’ wheels

- Fuel system with FIA-homologated tank

- Specific engine and gearbox cooling system

- Air/high-capacity air exchanger and specific booster circuit

- Aviation type electrical system with digital instrument panel display

- Data acquisition system built into the injection unit

- Roof-mounted air intake

- Glossy dashboard strip

- Specific wheel arch protections

- Front and rear tow straps

- Spare wheel straps

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT:

- Gravel rallying adaptation kit, including shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bar, front brake discs, 6×15’’ gravel wheels and bodywork protective covers

- Short or long torque settings

- Co-driver footrest

- Citroën Racing rear-view mirrors

- FIA-homologated crash panel doors

- Xenon headlamp assembly

- 64MB data acquisition unit upgrade

- Specific mapping for racing fuel

- Tool kit, including: wheel hub fitting tool, brake fluid bleed device, steering rack shim

- Springs of varying levels of stiffness

- Anti-roll bar of varying diameters

- Standard bodywork spare parts kit

EQUIPMENT NOT INCLUDED IN THE KIT:

- Seats

- Harness

- Fire extinguishers

- Battery

- Spare wheel

- Jack and tyre-changing accessories

- Radio equipment and on-board computer

- FIA-approved anti-shatter protective film

- Tyres

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

CHASSIS

Structure Reinforced body with welded, multi-point roll cage

Bodywork DS3 THP 150 with specific roof-mounted air intake and rear-view mirrors

ENGINE

Type 1.6 THP PSA

Bore x stroke 77×85.8 mm

Capacity 1,598cc

Maximum power 210bhp at 4,750rpm

Maximum torque 35Nm at 3,000rpm

Specific output 131.4bhp/litre

Distribution Double overhead camshaft valve train

Breaker arm with adapted cam profile

Specific pistons, connecting rods, engine flywheel and camshaft

Fuel feed Direct injection

Motorized single throttle valve

CLUTCH

Type Thrust mechanism

184mm cerametallic twin-disk

TRANSMISSION

Type Front-wheel drive

Gearbox Six-speed sequential

Control Electronically controlled with steering wheel-mounted paddle

Differential Self-locking type ZF differential

BRAKES

Front Ventilated disks, 330x30mm (tarmac) and 300x30mm (gravel)

4-piston callipers

Rear 300x8mm discs

2-piston callipers

Distribution Adjustable

Handbrake Hydraulic control

SUSPENSION

Front McPherson type

Specific hinges and hub carriers

Rear H-shaped axles

Shock absorbers BOS three-track adjustable shock absorbers (low-and high-speed compression and rebound)

Adjustable hydraulic bump stop

STEERING

Type Hydraulic power-assisted steering

WHEELS

Tarmac 7×17’’ wheels

BFGoodrich 200/50/R17 tyres

Gravel 6×15’’ wheels

BFGoodrich 195/70/R15 tyres

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES

Length 3,948mm

Width 1,715mm

Wheel base 2,465mm

Track 1,520mm (front) – 1,490mm (rear)

Fuel tank 67 litres

Weight 1,230kg with driver pairing (regulations)

Weight distribution 64/36% (front/rear)

© 2012 Paul Tan's Automotive News. All Rights Reserved.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:19 +0000.

No related posts.