Citroën DS3 Cabrio Arrives! | Citroën

Citroen DS3 Cabrio | Citroen DS3 Cabrio

The Fourth Model in the DS Line

DS3 Cabrio Arrives!

Citroen has announced that it will give the "DS3 Cabrio" its world premiere to coincide with the Paris Motor Show, and has released advance information.The DS3 Hatchback,The SUV-Style DS4, andThe DS5 Recently Introduced in Japancomplete the lineup of distinctively characterful models that are uniquely Citroen.DS Serieswill soon welcome a new member.

Text by HORIGUCHI Yoshihiro（OPENERS）

The Latest DS Series Model is a Cabriolet

The DS3 Cabrio, as its name suggests, is a soft-top version based on the DS3. While it's a cabriolet, the roof opens in a manner similar to the Fiat "500C", where only the top part opens while the pillars remain, allowing all occupants to enjoy the open air when fully open, extending to the luggage compartment.

The roof opens and closes electrically via a switch above the driver's seat. It can be operated at speeds up to 120 km/h. When open, a deflector net extends from the front to prevent wind buffeting.

The canvas top of the DS3 Cabriolet uses high-quality materials designed to meet the same sound insulation standards as a conventional hatchback with a fixed roof. It is available in three stylish patterns characteristic of the DS line: "Black," "Infini Blue," and "DS Monogram."

Due to the mechanism that folds the canvas top above the hatch when open, the luggage compartment opening is also unique. At first glance, it might seem to open downwards like a Mini Convertible, but it actually extends outwards and then lifts upwards, similar to a vertically oriented sliding door. Please watch the video below for the actual operation. The luggage capacity is 245 liters. The rear seats are split 60/40, allowing for increased capacity when needed.

What Hasn't Changed, What Has Changed from the DS3

To ensure the DS3 Cabrio retains the enjoyable driving experience of the DS3, the fundamental aspects of the car have been designed to remain largely unchanged. While the dimensions are 3.95m long x 1.71m wide x 1.46m high, the weight has only increased by 25kg despite the addition of the canvas top mechanism. Measures have been taken to reinforce the body structure, which can be a concern with large openings like the luggage compartment, to counteract any potential decrease in rigidity.

Meanwhile, elements related to design have evolved further, in true DS line fashion.

The most striking exterior feature is the rear LED combination lamps. Framed in chrome, the taillights create an effect that appears to have infinite depth, like an image generated by facing mirrors. This almost magical lighting is achieved by combining 31 LEDs with reflectors. Outside the combination lamps, under a smoked cover, are embossed DS patterns and logos.

The DS3 Cabrio is scheduled to go on sale in France in early 2013.