Test Drive of the DS3 Chic with a Renewed Powertrain | Citroën

Citroen DS3 Chic | Citroën DS3 Chic

Individuality That Stands Out After Four Years

Test Drive of the DS3 Chic with a Renewed Powertrain

Among the DS line of distinctive Citroën models, the most compact, the "DS3," has received a powertrain update. Replacing the previous 1.6-liter 4-cylinder with a 4-speed automatic transmission is an entirely new combination: a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder paired with a 5-speed single-clutch gearbox. A simple comparison of numbers might suggest a trade-off in power for fuel efficiency, but what is it like in reality? Fumio Ogawa takes it for a spin.

Text by Fumio OgawaPhotographs by Hidenori Hanamura

The DS3 Lineup: Clearly Defined Characters

Even four years after its debut, the Citroën " DS3" has not lost its fresh styling concept. This compact hatchback coupe has recently been equipped with a new, fuel-efficient engine.

The newly installed engine is a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder, which the Japanese subsidiary, Peugeot Citroën Japon, claims "reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions." It was announced in Japan on February 17, 2014, as the "DS3 Chic."

Additionally, it comes standard with a 5-speed robotized manual transmission and a stop-start system that automatically stops the engine at idle and restarts it when moving off – these are the new features.

Compared to the previous DS3 Chic, which featured a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine with a 4-speed AT, Peugeot Citroën Japon states that fuel consumption has "improved by approximately 49 percent, achieving 18.6 km/l."

Meanwhile, the "DS3 Sport Chic," equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, remains in the catalog with its 156ps 1.6-liter engine. With this lineup revision, the DS3 has been clearly divided into fuel-efficiency-oriented and power-oriented models.

Citroen DS3 Chic | Citroën DS3 Chic

Individuality That Stands Out After Four Years

Test Drive of the DS3 Chic with a Renewed Powertrain (2)

Enjoying the Pleasures of a Naturally Aspirated Engine

This new engine has already been featured in models like the Peugeot "208" and the "2008". It is a next-generation power unit developed by the Peugeot Citroën Group. Positioned as an engine for base models, it delivers a maximum output of 82ps and a peak torque of 118Nm.

It boasts approximately 30 percent reduced friction loss, smooth rotational characteristics, and excellent quietness and durability. To achieve optimal combustion efficiency in both fuel economy and power, it is equipped with a continuously variable valve timing system.

In practice, it's impressive how smoothly the engine revs up to the redline in response to accelerator pedal input. With peak torque available from 2,750 rpm, it delivers enjoyable acceleration with ample power from 3,000 rpm upwards. Furthermore, as it's a naturally aspirated engine without a turbocharger, it's satisfying to feel the power build consistently all the way to the red zone on the tachometer.

The transmission operates like an automatic, without a clutch pedal, using hydraulic actuators for shifting up and down. For those unaccustomed to it, there can be a slight jerkiness in engagement, particularly at lower RPMs.

Citroen DS3 Chic | Citroën DS3 Chic

Individuality That Stands Out After Four Years

Test Drive of the DS3 Chic with a Renewed Powertrain (3)

A Driving Experience More Enjoyable Than It Looks

While the initial takeoff requires some getting used to due to less-than-expected smooth upshifts, once you switch to using the paddle shifters, which can be operated without taking your hands off the wheel, the driving becomes surprisingly enjoyable.

Personally, I prefer using the manual mode, shifting gears by moving the shift lever forward and backward, as it evokes the feeling of driving a race car.

By selecting gears so that the tachometer needle hovers around 4,000 rpm, you can experience a delightful, direct sensation as the car responds to subtle changes in pressure on the accelerator pedal, allowing for smooth acceleration and deceleration.

The engine seems to enjoy being pushed to higher revs, and its strength is such that it belies the knowledge that it's a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder without a turbocharger. The DS3 already has a well-tuned suspension and handles corners adeptly. Despite its cute and fashionable exterior image, it remains a model that offers a surprisingly fun driving experience, and that impression hasn't changed.

Since the base is a manual transmission, several features have been incorporated to provide the convenience of a two-pedal system. One is the creep mechanism that engages the clutch early during takeoff. Another is the hill start assist, which ensures smooth starts on inclines.

Citroen DS3 Chic | Citroën DS3 Chic

Individuality That Stands Out After Four Years

Test Drive of the DS3 Chic with a Renewed Powertrain (4)

It Will Be a Timely and Excellent Partner

As mentioned earlier, while the DS3 Sport Chic emphasizes powerful driving, the DS3 Chic is characterized by its focus on fuel efficiency. Therefore, it might be best enjoyed by driving in lower RPM ranges with fuel economy in mind.

However, for a car enthusiast, doing so in a DS3 would be an almost unbearable penance. This is because, as previously noted, it's simply fun to drive by revving the engine hard. It feels as though the manufacturer is saying, why buy such a distinctive hatchback coupe if you're not going to enjoy it?

Citroën's lineup sometimes has a character that might be too strong for some Japanese women. Among them, the DS3 alone has received the highest praise from Japanese women, often described as "cute!" Its appeal lies in numerous elements: the substantial tires, the lively proportions, the slightly aggressive headlamps and daytime running lights, the thick and seemingly safe C-pillars, and its unique body color schemes.

The DS3 Sport Chic (¥2.78 million) faces a formidable rival in the recently redesigned "MINI Cooper" (¥2.66 million). Meanwhile, in the market where the DS3 Chic (¥2.55 million) is positioned, distinctive products include the Renault "Clio" (from ¥2.055 million) and the Fiat "500" (from ¥1.998 million). Furthermore, in terms of balancing fuel economy and quality, strong competitors exist such as the Volkswagen "up!" (from ¥1.548 million) and the "Polo" (from ¥2.276 million), or the Ford "Fiesta" (approx. ¥2.355 million).

The DS3 possesses an individuality that allows it to stand out amidst these competitors. If you appreciate its styling and have the budget, I would recommend the Sport Chic for a wider range of driving enjoyment.

However, in today's world of rising gasoline prices, fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for daily use. Considering this, the arrival of the Chic with its new powertrain is timely. It will likely become a good partner in many respects.