Citroën DS3: Originality and Innovation in a Compact Car

CITROEN DS3 | CITROËN DS3

A Compact Car Blending Originality and Innovation

From Citroën, a marque that has always forged its own path to create captivating cars, unbound by convention, comes the Citroën DS3 – a compact car that embodies both originality and innovation.

Text by OPENERSPhotos by Peugeot Citroën Japon

The "DS" - A Special Model with Original, Innovative Character

The Citroën DS3 was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2009. It is a three-door compact hatchback featuring a novel styling, a refined interior, a compact body size, class-leading interior space, and "vehicle personalization" that allows owners to express their individuality.

7 body colors, 4 roof & door mirror colors. Combinations create diverse expressions.

It is important to note that the "DS" designation for the DS3 is not a revival of the iconic DS19, which captivated audiences in 1955. Just as the DS19 was praised as "a car ten years ahead of its time" for its groundbreaking individuality, the "DS" name is now reserved for special models that possess a unique and innovative character, setting them apart from Citroën's traditional model lineup. The newly released DS3, therefore, complements Citroën's established "C" series, forming a broader range of Citroën vehicles.

A Style That Expresses the Owner's Individuality

Among the features of the DS3, available in two types – Chic and Sport Chic – the aforementioned "vehicle personalization" is most noteworthy. First, you can choose from seven body colors and four roof and door mirror colors. Alloy wheels are also available in four colors for Chic and two for Sport Chic. Inside, the dashboard can be selected from five colors, and the seats are available in five fabric and leather options.

The dynamic styling is also striking. Dedicated emblems adorn the front and rear, and "front LED lights" are positioned on either side of the front grille.

Inside, the dashboard can be selected from five colors, and the seats are available in five fabric and leather options.

Furthermore, the "floating roof" design, achieved by treating the B-pillar in black, creates the illusion that the entire roof is suspended in mid-air. Chrome accents on elements like the door handles, door mirror bases, and exhaust tips add to the robust and voluminous design.

The interior design, featuring a glossy, lustrous material on the dashboard panel that differs from other Citroën models, exudes sophistication and luxury. While ensuring ample living space, the luggage compartment offers a generous 285 liters (VDA standard). The 60/40 split-folding rear seats further enhance practicality.

Chic with a 1.6-liter Inline-4 DOHC, Sport Chic with a Turbocharger

Two engine options are available. The Chic model is equipped with a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter DOHC 16V engine, characterized by its smooth power delivery and light-revving feel. This power unit, producing a maximum output of 88 kW (120 ps) at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 160 Nm (16.3 kgm) at 4,250 rpm, features excellent combustion efficiency thanks to its all-range continuously variable valve timing and lift system. It is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The Sport Chic, a made-to-order model, features a DOHC 16V engine with a direct injection twin-scroll turbocharger. Despite its 1.6-liter displacement, it produces a maximum output of 115 kW (156 ps) at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 240 Nm (24.5 kgm) between 1,400 and 3,500 rpm. Combined with a 6-speed manual transmission, it offers a more spirited driving experience.

The power steering system, supporting agile driving, incorporates an "active return function" that assists the steering wheel in returning to its straight-ahead position, an "active damping function" that maintains steering stability at high speeds or on unpaved roads, and a "lock limit control function" that mitigates shocks from the steering wheel during full lock maneuvers. These features significantly enhance the steering feel. Both engines utilize a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension.

In terms of safety, the car ensures a high level of crashworthiness by strategically employing materials of varying strengths. All models come standard with ESP (Electronic Stability Program), along with a 6-airbag system, rear parking sensors, automatic wipers, and automatic headlights. It has achieved the highest rating of 5 stars in the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP).