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Citroen is unleashing a hot new Citroen DS3 at the Geneva Motor Show – the limited edition 200hp Citroen DS3 Racing.

Developed by Citroen Racing – the winning team behind five WRC manufacturer’s titles and six driver’s titles for Sebastien Loeb and Daniel Elena – Citroen DS3 Racing is a special edition with a 100% sporting pedigree. Planned for the second half of 2010, the exclusive Citroen DS3 R will be limited to just 1000 production units. With integrated carbon-trimmed components and specialist motorsports equipment, Citroen DS3 Racing’s tuned and turbo-charged 1.6-litre THP 150 engine develops 200hp – a power increase of almost 30% over the standard unit – with a torque increase of 15% from 240Nm to 275Nm.

To achieve the additional power output, from 156hp to 200hp, Citroen Racing’s engineers modified and optimised the powertrain components, tuned the performance of the turbo and adjusted the mapping of the engine control unit. A special tail pipe and muffler were also added.

Allowing Citroen DS3 R to stick to the road, the car has undergone some significant sporting enhancements. The steering has been made even more precise, with the control system modified for the new tyres. The fitment of stiffer suspension springs, adapted front and rear shock absorbers (to handle the increased power), and the widening of the front and rear tracks by 30mm – plus lowering the car by 15mm – all dramatically change the driving dynamics.

These important developments reinforce both the stability and dynamic control of the car, and enhance the feedback between the road and the driver.

The braking system has also been up-rated to ensure control over the car’s additional horsepower. The front wheels get 4-piston racing callipers and special disc-brakes – with drilled discs at the rear. For enhanced control, the ESP has been adapted to complement the sportier handling, but can be disengaged according to the driver’s preference.

In addition to the distinctive, radical styling of Citroen DS3, the new Racing edition inherits Citroen Racing’s expertise in motorsport design to provide advanced technological and stylistic sporting prowess.

The preview model, to be presented at Geneva, is in a special livery and features sporty ‘Citroen DS3’, ‘Citroen Racing’ and chequered flag graphics on the roof, in front of the rear wheel arches, under the side mirrors and next to the fuel cap.

Measuring 3.94m long, Citroen DS3 Racing’s dark grey body is tastefully contrasted with a vibrant, bright orange-coloured roof, side mirrors and brake callipers. The alloy wheels and front grille surround – with integrated chevrons – are finished in orange chrome.

A sporty carbon finish is used around the front bumper, lower body trim and wing extensions, whilst large 18” alloy wheels, chrome door handles and even a chrome-finished exhaust complete the dynamic styling.

Inside the cabin, smart carbon trim adorns the dashboard, centre console, steering wheel embellisher, armrests and door side mouldings. The vibrant orange bodywork and decals continue into the cabin with the glossy strip of the dash, gear stick and gear stick surround finished in the same bright tone. The sporty, figure-hugging seats are also touched with orange elements and are embossed with ‘Citroen Racing’.

A Citroen DS3 R signature on the rear tailgate and an individually numbered identification plate fixed to the roof-lining further confirm the model’s exclusivity.

On the road, Citroen DS3 Racing’s WRC pedigree is evident. Benefiting from Citroen’s extensive knowledge of racing dynamics, a carbon-finished air diffuser stabilises the car at high speeds, whilst the chassis and suspension have been adapted to provide even more precision, control, sportier handling and swifter cornering.

Based on the existing DSport powered by the THP 150, production Citroen DS3 R editions will be finished in a special workshop and fitted with a parts kit developed according to Citroen Racing specifications.

CITROEN C-ZERO: THE NEW 100% ELECTRIC CITY CAR

Zero fuel consumption, zero CO2 emissions and zero engine noise: with the C-ZERO, CITROEN is broadening its compact vehicle range with a 100% electric offering.

The new city car is designed to make urban mobility easier – thanks to its compact dimensions, rapid charge and generous range for day-to-day car journeys. And all of this in a silence that makes occupants forget about the noise of the city. The C-ZERO combines technology and creativity to meet tomorrow’s challenges today.

Having already produced more than 5,500 electric vehicles, CITROEN has the experience vital to being a front-runner in a market segment that is set to grow significantly in the coming years.

Due for launch in the last quarter of 2010, the C-ZERO is developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.

A NEW PRODUCT OFFERING CONSISTENT WITH CITROEN POLICY

Long committed to a policy of reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, CITROEN – a leading manufacturer of low CO2 cars – is adding the C-ZERO to a range that already features a wealth of environmentally respectful products.

Current CITROEN achievements:

New C3 and DS3 models emitting 99g/km of CO2 will be available from launch in 2010.
More than 30% of CITROEN vehicles sold emit less than 120g/km of CO2.

Up-coming technologies:

Widespread application of second-generation Stop & Start in 2010.

Launch of a full-hybrid vehicle, the DS5, in 2011.

A 100% ELECTRIC VEHICLE

The CITROEN C-ZERO is a full-electric vehicle powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 47kW or 64bhp EEC from 3,000 to 6,000rpm. Maximum torque of 180Nm is available from 0 to 2,000rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear axle via a single-speed reduction gear.

The motor is powered by a latest-generation 330-volt lithium-ion battery system comprising 88 50Ah cells (for onboard energy of 16kWh), mounted in the center of the vehicle. Lithium-ion technology keeps battery weight down compared with conventional technology, while offering equivalent performance. It is also resistant to partial re-charges, which have no impact on battery longevity.

EASY TO CHARGE, EASY TO USE

Re-charging the C-ZERO’s batteries could not be simpler. Owners plug the supply cord into a 220-volt socket. A complete charge takes six hours, while an 80% charge is possible in just 30 minutes using an external station with a single-phase current of 125A at 400V, for power of up to 50kW.

Using the car is equally simple. When the driver turns the ignition key, a beep confirms that the car is running. CITROEN C-ZERO drives like a regular car with an automatic gearbox. The traditional fuel gauge is replaced by a battery charge indicator.

PERFORMANCE & FEATURES FOR TODAY’S NEEDS

The CITROEN C-ZERO is perfectly adapted to the needs of all kinds of users – including public sector operators, local authorities, smaller businesses and company fleets – and also to those of private customers looking for a car with exceptionally low running costs.

With four real seats – thanks to a 2.55m wheelbase – and a 166 litre boot, the C-ZERO is impressively quiet to drive and boasts a plethora of comfort and safety equipment. Original-fit features include power steering, ABS, traction control, ESP, electric windows, six airbags and air conditioning.

A CITY CAR AT EASE ON THE OPEN ROAD

The C-ZERO’s compact exterior dimensions – 3.48m long – and a 9m turning circle, make it a cinch to nip in and out of city traffic. And with a top speed of 130kph (80mph), acceleration from 0-100kph (0-62mph) in 15 seconds and 60-90kph (37-56mph) in 6 seconds, along with a range of around 130km (80miles), over a standard combined cycle, it is also fully at ease out on the open road.

The new Citroen DS3 will be available in Spring 2010. The expectations for this model are very big, because of innovate vehicle design and the new more powerful and fuel efficient engines. The 3 petrol engines are co-developed with BMW, which is a proof of excellence.

The two HDi diesels – a 90bhp and an 110bhp – are fitted with Citroën’s lauded DPFS (Diesel Particulate Filter System) and the three petrol engines – VTi 95, VTi 120 and THP 150 – are fitted with either 5 or 6 speed manual gearboxes.

The electronic systems will take care about your safety – ABS, ESP, EBD and EBA come in standard with every Citroen DS3.

At first glance it doesn’t look like Citroen C3, sport lines, aggressive front and back, big rims, sharp style. The DS3 will be more than little city car, it has its own style.

Citroën DS3 will be shown on September 15 at Frankfurt Motor Show for the first time.

The DS3 will be the first model from Citroën’s brand new DS line, a product range consisting of three distinctively styled, attention-grabbing models that highlight the very best of Citroën’s ‘créative technologie.’

With razor sharp styling and a visually-arresting design, DS3 is a radical take on the compact urban vehicle and a contemporary breath of fresh air for the class.

Designed to meet the requirements of even the most demanding connoisseur, DS3 offers an extensive array of style, personalisation and quality materials for a bespoke and refined driving experience, whilst at the same time embodying the very latest Citroën technology including fuel-efficient, environmentally-considerate engines.

STUDIO STYLING

Citroën’s creative talent for innovative vehicle design manifests itself on every feature of the DS3.

From all angles, the car’s undeniable on-road presence and refreshing style is evident with stand-out elements such as the colour-contrasted ‘floating roof’, ‘shark fin’ B-pillar and sleek design of the front LED lights – a desirable feature usually seen on premium models.

Inside, the atmosphere in the cabin is one of class and contemporary elegance with an exceptional attention to detail and an extensive use of luxury materials such as leather and chrome. The upper part of the flowing dashboard echoes the floating roof. Thermo-coated components are used throughout – an organic, soft grain material, which contrasts perfectly with the smooth, lacquered effect of the strip runs the full width of the dash from driver to passenger side.

“MY DS3!”

Offering freedom of expression, the innovative DS3 provides extensive levels of personalisation – both inside and out.

In addition to a range of body shades, the DS3’s distinctive ‘floating’ roof is available in a choice of four colours – Black, White, Blue and Red – to contrast with the main body of the car. The wing mirrors and rubbing strips can also be personalised in colours or smart chrome finish and the wheels and wheel centres are available in a wide spectrum of colours.

Inside, DS3 can offer further personalisation with the dashboard strip – which encompasses the air vents, instrument cluster, multi-function screens and even a scented air-fresher – in a choice of six finishes.

The modern seat upholstery design is available in a variety of coloured fabrics and leather; even the gear knob can be tailored in five different trims, combining satin-finish chrome with an array of colours and leather. The smart chrome touches which adorn the DS3’s cabin will also be available in a satin-textured finish. You can even carry a bit of your DS3 with you thanks to each distinctly styled DS3 key fob featuring a disc coloured to match your choice of body paint.

ENERGY AND ELEGANCE

Proving that environmentally-considerate motoring doesn’t mean having to compromise on style or performance, the DS3 will be available with a choice of five CO2-efficient Euro V power plants consisting of two HDi diesel units and three BMW co-developed petrol engines, combining refined performance with strong fuel economy.

The two HDi diesels – a 90bhp and an 110bhp – are fitted with Citroën’s lauded DPFS (Diesel Particulate Filter System) and the three petrol engines – VTi 95, VTi 120 and THP 150 – are fitted with either 5 or 6 speed manual gearboxes.

Fully in line with Citroën’s commitment to producing cleaner, more environmentally considerate vehicles, the two HDi DPFS engines will deliver ultra low CO2 emissions of just 99g/km and 115/g km, whilst the petrol units will emit between 136g/km and 160g/km.

LOST IN SPACE

Both enjoyable and easy to live with, the DS3 combines high-end style with practical versatility, creating an exceptionally spacious cabin out of its compact external dimensions – a Citroën speciality.

One of the smallest vehicles in its class – 3.95m long, 1.71m wide and 1.46m high – the DS3’s interior belies its neat frame, setting a new class standard for spaciousness. The result of extensive work on the architecture of the car’s interior design, occupants can enjoy levels of roominess normally associated with models in the segment above.

A ‘raised’ dashboard design creates increased amounts of front leg room whilst the slender front seats and intelligent rear design increases space for rear occupants with all passengers able to enjoy five full-sized seats and ample arm, leg and headroom.

The DS3 also boasts the largest boot in its class at 285-litres, and for additional load capacity the 60:40 split-fold rear bench can be tumbled forward in a single, effortless movement.

FUN AT THE WHEEL

A cockpit-inspired driving position puts the driver firmly in control with a sports-styled instrument cluster featuring three conical dials, small-diameter wheel and low-slung, body-hugging seats. DS3 delivers a nimble driving experience with a turning circle of around 10.3m also making it a surefooted companion for manoeuvring around cramped urban environments.

Building upon Citroën’s extensive experience in producing smooth running-gear, DS3 delivers impressive ride comfort together with responsive road-handling and dynamic poise. Drivers also benefit from excellent body roll control, responsive and confident cornering thus providing a secure and fulfilling drive.

I.C.E. COOL

DS3 is available with Citroën’s latest in-car technology such as the integrated MyWay satellite navigation unit which incorporates a sophisticated audio and multimedia system, wide format colour screen, MP3 and WMA compatible CD player and Bluetooth® hands free kit. Providing exceptional acoustic clarity, the audio system benefits from a third speaker in the middle of the upper dashboard as well as an amplified subwoofer mounted in the boot for a broader frequency response and immersive audio experience.

A convenient range of driving aids will also be available including cruise control with speed limiter, and an intelligent indicator which recommends the optimal moment for gear changes allowing drivers to improve their fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.

PLAY IT SAFE

The DS3 is designed with an emphasis on robustness, strength and optimum safety to ensure protection for all occupants. For reassuring control in any driving situation DS3 models will feature as standard ESP, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and EBA (Emergency Brake Assist) as well as six airbags and Isofix anchor points on the rear side seats.

The DS3 will arrive in the UK in Spring 2010. ‘On Sale’ date, prices and further details on this exciting new Citroën model will be announced in the forthcoming months. The DS3 will join Citroën’s latest vehicle range as the Company continues its 90th birthday celebrations at the Frankfurt Motor Show which runs from 15th to the 27th of September.

Beautiful, young, intelligent. The new C3 by Citroën.

Coming out in November 2009, the new Citroën C3 has a strong ambition: to replace a bestseller that has sold more than 2 million units. “This is a major renewal for the Marque and gives us the wherewithal to achieve our target of increasing market share even more, among both individual and corporate customers,” says Frédéric Banzet, Managing Director of Citroën.

The winning formula: take the best of the C3 and make it even better. The new C3 is packed with seductive features: tauter styling, high-class trim, intelligent architecture creating exceptional interior space in what is still one of the most compact vehicles on the market, and superior on-board comfort and road handling, both in the city and on the open road. With the most advanced features in the segment, the new Citroën C3 will be ideal as the main family car or core fleet vehicle.

But that’s not all. The Zenith windscreen makes the new C3 unique. As well as drenching the cabin in light and expanding visibility, this windscreen introduces passengers of our Visiodrive to a new driving experience. “With the new C3, Citroën is opening up a new automobile universe. A universe where reason and responsibility leave room for new driving pleasure. And new sensations,” says Vincent Besson, Products and Markets, Citroën.

These quality features are confirmed in the design and manufacturing of the new Citroën C3. Made in France, on the industrial sites of Aulnay and Poissy, the new vehicle meets high quality standards, both new and over time. To guarantee optimum reliability, and iron out the last imperfections, it will be put through more than 2 million kilometres of on-road testing before the market release.

A UNIQUE, ALLURING PERSONALITY

The new C3 is asserting its personality. The recognisable protective roundness of its predecessor is given a sportier edge with tauter, smoother lines. Exciting with a gentle touch: the essence of seduction.

The styling and refinement of the new C3 are seductive. The materials are high class, such as the thermo-coated dash, highlighted by a cross strip in satin grey or gloss brushed aluminium, and chrome detailing. The new C3 takes trim level and quality to a new dimension. This is illustrated perfectly by care with gap and flush, attention to every detail and robust design.

INTELLIGENT ARCHITECTURE

The new C3 is one of the most compact vehicles in its segment. With a length of 3.94 m, a width of 1.71 m and a 10.2 m turning circle, it is perfect for the city.

A compact exterior, without compromising on interior space. The new C3 has the roominess it needs to assert its new status as the main family car or core fleet vehicle. This can been seen in the generous 300 litres of optimised boot capacity, numerous storage spaces (console, glovebox, central armrest…), medium-height seats facilitating access and visibility, and optimised interior space offering more knee room. The new Citroën C3 is more spacious, but still compact. It’s a “real” car, with upper-segment features.

A NEW DRIVING EXPERIENCE

The new experience goes further and gets better with the Zenith windscreen, a technological feat. This exceptionally long windscreen expands the front occupants’ field of vision by 80° upwards. Combined with slimmer pillars, the Zenith gives all occupants a sense of unlimited, high-definition vision. Total immersion. As a world first, the progressive glass smoothes the transition from the strong sun protection above the front passengers to the standard clear glass for looking forwards. The saloon with the biggest windscreen and the smallest roof on the market delivers more new driving sensations! The new C3 offers more visibility and light, for more safety and driving pleasure.

Speaking of pleasure, our Visiodrive naturally benefits from the Marque’s know-how in comfort. Everyone will be extremely comfortable on board the new Citroën C3 for all the senses: not just low noise and low vibration, but fragrant and nice to look at, with the many windows and air freshener. A relaxing atmosphere. A great car to drive and be driven in.

The new C3 is a “connected” car. In addition to the RD4 mp3 audio system, the USB Box (USB slot + jack, full iPod compatibility, Bluetooth® hands-free kit) and MyWay navigation, the new Hifi System® surrounds passengers with sound, as if they were in a concert hall. The system offers not only exceptional sound quality, but comes with a competitive price tag.

IMPRESSIVE AND REASONABLE DYNAMIC FEATURES

The new Citroën C3 will make others green with envy… with more dynamic road handling, it is as comfortable on the open road as in the city, and has managed to keep a slim figure by not putting on any weight! An exceptional achievement given the convincing increase in comfort and interior space. This weight control, combined with optimised aerodynamics (a Cx of 0.30), the new C3 manages its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions intelligently. Right from launch, it will come in a version emitting 99 g/km de CO2, with the HDi 90 DPFS engine.

That expertise in managing fuel consumption will reach a new stage with the arrival of new powerplants in 2011, incorporating second-generation Stop & Start. Coupled with five- and six-speed electronic gearboxes, they will equip diesel versions emitting only 95 and 90 g/km de CO2. In short, the new generation of three-cylinder engines will enable versions emitting less than 100 g/km de CO2.

2009 Citroen C5

FIRST DETAILS – CITROËN’S NEW 3.0HDi V6 DIESEL – MORE POWER, YET BETTER ECONOMY & LESS CO2

 

Citroën has released first details of an advanced 3.0HDi V6 240hp engine to be introduced to the C5 and C6 ranges later this summer. The unit is the most powerful production engine in the history of the Marque.

It delivers the neat trick of offering more power and improved performance, alongside better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions. The new engine improves fuel economy by 13-17% and reduces CO2 by 12-15%, compared to the current 2.7HDi V6 208hp unit.

With advanced new engine technology, the new V6 diesel incorporates the third generation of Citroën’s common-rail direct injection system and offers drivers a refined driving experience with its quiet operation and more efficient performance. Delivering an abundance of torque, the new V6 diesel provides exceptional driving pleasure for every-day motoring.

Fuel saving features in the new engine include a piloted alternator, which recovers energy during deceleration and braking. The engine also fully complies with future Euro V standards, ahead of the compulsory introduction to production vehicles in January 2011.

Mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox, the powerful and efficient unit means drivers can now benefit from up to 38mpg on the combined cycle. Highlighting Citroën’s continuing commitment to the environment, not only does this engine come with a Diesel Particulate Filter System (DPFS) for an ultra-clean exhaust, but CO2 emissions are also reduced to 195g/km.

The improved emissions also put both new C5 and C6 V6 diesel models into the lower Tax band J, creating a saving of £325 on cars registered in the 2010/11 RFL period.

The striking GTbyCitroën supercar concept will make its UK debut climbing the famous 1.16-mile Goodwood Hill at this year’s Festival of Speed (3-5 July).

Getting in some practice for the Festival of Speed, GTbyCITROËN has been busy completing laps of honour at both the Nürburgring and Le Mans 24 hour endurance races. The 2008 Louis Vuitton Classic Concept Award winner took to the Le Mans circuit this weekend with 150 cars for the famous parade lap.

The car first hit the headlines at the Paris Motorshow last October where the unique partnership between Citroën and Polyphony, designer of the driving simulation game Gran Turismo5 on the Playstation 3, unveiled the real world replica of the digital vehicle.

Measuring nearly five-metres long (4.96m), and just over a metre high (1.09m), the GTbyCitroën is characterised by a large wraparound windscreen which flows into the roof and on into the rear mobile airfoil. The dynamic supercar feel is further enhanced by wide air intakes, a flat underside, rear air-diffuser, clear-cut horizontal headlamps, gullwing doors and diamond-effect 21 inch aluminium wheels.

The GTbyCitroën will climb the Goodwood Hill as part of the Sunday Times Supercar Run.

Following Clio 2009 range’s world debut alongside New Scénic range, New Mégane Sport Tourer and New Mégane Renaultsport 250 at the Geneva motor show last month, UK pricing has now been released for the new 3- and 5-door, and Sport Tourer versions.

Featuring refreshed styling and two new versions – TomTom Edition and GT – the new line-up is available to order now and arrives in showrooms on 15th May 2009.

The new Clio 2009 range starts with entry-level Extreme on 3-door versions only. Offering generous equipment levels with 4×20W radio CD MP3 and RCA socket, six airbags, front fog lights and electric front windows, the car has a starting price of £9,995.

Moving up to Expression in 5-door and Sport Tourer guise, the second most popular trim level offers 60:40 split folding rear seat, electric heated door mirrors and driver’s seat height adjustment for added comfort and convenience.

Additional standard equipment on the Sport Tourer version includes black roof bars, body coloured rear spoiler and removable boot floor for extra versatility and security.

Designed to appeal to fleets in particular, Expression A/C (5 door and Sport Tourer) naturally adds air conditioning to the generous Expression trim level.

The core model, Dynamique, retains its 16″ alloy wheels with extended front wings, air conditioning, auto headlights and wipers, curtain airbags, one-touch front electric windows (driver’s side), as well as its sport-oriented leather steering wheel and gearknob, satin chrome interior detailing and soft touch dashboard.

Following the launch of the first affordable integrated satellite navigation system with Carminat TomTom in New Grand Scénic, Clio 2009 is the second range to benefit.

The new Carminat TomTom (5.8 inch colour screen) can be specified either as an option (with remote control and SD card) for £450, or as part of a model in its own right, with the launch of the new TomTom Edition. Sitting just above Dynamique, the two versions available offer all of its ample equipment list, plus cruise control and speed limiter.

Bridging the gap between the sporty Dynamique and flagship Renaultsport 200 models, another trim level, GT, joins the fold. Underlining its warm hatch potency, the three-door model gains a new Clio engine – the 1.6 VVT 128 petrol, with several exterior and interior features highlighting its sportiness.

Distinguishable from lesser models on the outside, the alterations include new 16″ ‘GT’ alloy wheels, extra tinted rear windows and tailgate, fixed cornering lights with black surrounds and, most notably, GT front and rear spoilers, side skirts and twin exhausts.

The performance-oriented enhancements continue on the inside with bespoke GT seats in dark and light carbon with GT logo, drilled aluminium pedal facings, white rev counter and GT leather steering wheel.

Completing the range are the luxury Privilege and Initiale models, reserved for 5-door versions only. Like the GT, both are available with the flagship diesel engine, 1.5 dCi 106 with six-speed gearbox.

The former offers an abundance of comfort features such as climate control, electric front windows with one touch control for driver and front passenger, electric rear windows, Renault hands free keycard with reach adjustable steering wheel, as well as the chic part leather upholstery.

Last, Initiale offers the finest choice of specification, typical of much larger cars, with 4×20W radio CD MP3 with Bluetooth and ‘Plug & Music’ (RCA socket and USB connection), Thatcham category 1 alarm, Carminat TomTom, climate control, electrically heated and folding door mirrors, beige leather upholstery, metallic paint, rear parking proximity sensors and Storage Pack (sunglasses holder, rear sunblind and under parcel shelf garment carrier).

For customers wishing to tailor versions to their exacting tastes, an extensive range of options are available. Among them are (prices quoted include VAT):

-4×20W radio CD MP3 with Bluetooth and ‘Plug & Music’ £275
-Air conditioning £550
-15″ ‘Del Arte’ alloy wheels £500
-Fixed cornering lights with black surrounds £150
-Electrically heated and folding door mirrors £150
-Rear parking proximity sensors £300
-Renault Hands Free keycard £275

Five Option Packs also feature:

Cool – manual air con and electronic panoramic sunroof £1,020
Protection – curtain airbags, three 3-point rear seatbelts with pretensioners on outer seats (Expression £200). Plus three height adjustable rear headrests and 60:40 split folding rear seat (Extreme – £250)
Outdoor (Sport Tourer Dynamique) – satin chrome roof bars and fixed cornering lights with black surrounds £250
Expression Look (Sport Tourer) – black headlight surrounds, extra tinted rear windows and tailgate, body coloured side mouldings, satin chrome roof bars £300
Storage – sunglasses holder, rear sunblind and under parcel shelf garment carrier £100

Full pricing for the Clio 2009 range is outlined below:

3 door

5 door

Sport Tourer

The day after the fourth round of this year’s WRC season in Portugal, which was won by the C4 WRC, Citroën Racing did some testing with the Citroën C4 WRC HYbrid4 concept car on an asphalt road close to Faro. Spanish star Dani Sordo was at the wheel.

Having been born out of the Citroën Racing team’s creative desire to perfect a competitive yet innovative racer, the Citroën C4 WRC HYbrid4 project met with a warm reception when it was presented at the Paris Motor Show. The concept went on to make a hit at the Bologna Motor Show and then at the opening ceremony of the Rally Norway. Since the Geneva Motor Show, it carries the new livery of the title-winning Citroën C4 WRC.

The Citroën C4 WRC HYbrid4 was developed using Citroën’s current World Rally Championship contender as a base. An electrical propulsion system has been added to the internal combustion engine, gearbox, and transmission that are specific to the WRC machine.

The addition of a 990-cell Ion Lithium battery on top of the petrol tank and a 1 25 kW electric motor driving the rear wheels puts an extra 150 kg onto the overall weight.

This system, developed by Citroën Racing, allows the driver to choose between four different modes of functionality » explains Didier Clement, one of the race engineers.

In internal combustion mode, the Citroën C4 WRC HYbrid4 behaves exactly like one of the C4 WRCs that compete on the World Rally Championship. In internal combustion mode with energy recovery switched on, braking endurance is improved and the batteries get charged. On road sections and in the service park, electric mode with energy recovery means that there is less nuisance, increased range and less wear on the conventional engine. Finally, boost mode – which employs both the internal combustion engine and the electric motor – gives an extra 300 Nm of torque when engaged.

The two engines are linked to the same drivetrain. The driver can choose electric mode simply by switching on the ignition without starting the internal combustion engine. The gearbox paddles then give him a choice of three settings: forwards, backwards and neutral.

Didier Raso, an electrical and systems engineer, comments: The objective with this project was to be able to use the electric motor to drive on some of the road sections. This fully operational concept responds to that design brief. Citroën Racing wanted to show its ability to adapt this technology to motorsport. If at any point in the future the regulations permit the use of hybrid technology, we will be able to react straight away.

During the test session, Citroën Total World Rally Team driver Dani Sordo was able to evaluate the dynamic properties of the C4 WRC HYbrid4. One of the highlights of the day was a road section that passed through the village of Barranco do Velho, which was of course open to normal traffic. This allowed the team to assess the advantages of zero emissions in a life-sized context.

The second part of the test was a somewhat more familiar territory for Citroën Racing’s development team: a narrow and twisty asphalt road, not at all dissimilar to many of the demanding stages seen on the World Rally Championship.

Following the three challenging days of Rally Portugal, which resulted in a third place for Dani Sordo, the young Spaniard looked forward to his latest task with enthusiasm. In electric mode, you can drive through villages without making the slightest noise, which is very unusual for a competition car he reported during the hybrid car’s test. It’s better for the environment and also more comfortable for the crew, making road sections more pleasant.

Sordo’s comments on the car’s pure performance were equally complimentary. On the stages, I would say that the overall behaviour of the car is slightly different to that of the C4 WRC, with more weight to the rear he reported after his first few flying kilometres in internal combustion mode. The boost function means that we can choose when to benefit from extra torque under acceleration. When it comes in, the effect is impressive.

Just as is the case on the C4 WRC, the car set-up and tyre choice allow the driver to fine-tune the handling. The feeling is on the whole the same as the one I have with the standard rally car, added Sordo. And I love the way that the C4 goes on asphalt!

Throughout this test session, which well and truly underlined the creativity of Citroën Racing, the Citroën C4 WRC HYbrid4 demonstrated all the credentials that make it an important technological advance in rallying. Driving a C4 HYbrid4 that nonetheless has several things in common with his usual car, Dani Sordo successfully completed a fruitful test in which several valuable lessons were learned for the future.

Citroën’s popular C4 Coupe has been given the WRC treatment for a new limited, special edition. The Citroën C4 ‘by Loeb’, named after the world’s most successful rally driver ever – Sebastien Loeb – features sporty new interior and exterior designing, dynamic body colours and a well specified equipment list. Each limited edition will also be tagged with a unique serial number plaque mounted in the cabin.

Available in either Sport Red or Black, the racy new C4 ‘by Loeb’ features Sébastien Loeb’s signature on the doors, a unique ‘by Loeb’ sticker on the tailgate and door mirrors finished in either red, or black with aluminium-effect. Completing the car’s sporty style, the C4 ‘by Loeb’ is fitted with a sleek spoiler and dynamic 17” alloy wheels coloured in either white or black depending on the body colour.

Inside the car’s sporty personality continues with steel décor around the central air vents and aluminium finishes on both the pedals and gear knob. The leather steering wheel and gear lever are complemented by smart red stitching and the sports seats are finished in black and red ‘3D X-ray’ mesh cloth. There are also floor mats with red surrounds detailed with a unique ‘by Loeb’ design.

For comfort, convenience, and safety the C4 ‘by Loeb’ is kitted out with air conditioning, automatic rain-sensitive windscreen wipers, automatic headlights, electrochrome rear view mirror, MP3 compatible CD player and Citroën’s innovative fixed-centred controls steering wheel. The C4 is one of the safest vehicles on the road today with six airbags, ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), cruise control with speed limiter and ESP with traction control1.

Combining punchy performance with fuel economy and low CO2 emissions, the C4 ‘by Loeb’ can offer a frugal combined 62.8mpg with the 1.6HDi 16V 110hp, or an impressive 0-62mph in just 8.4 seconds with the 1.6i 16V THP 150hp.

1.6 16V VTi 120hp ‘by Loeb’ £14,395.00 OTR
1.6i 16V THP 150hp ‘by Loeb’ £15,395.00 OTR
1.6HDi 16V 110hp ‘by Loeb’ £15,895.01 OTR

Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger and players, Gael Clichy and Robin van Persie joined world famous cartoonist Gerald Scarfe last week to unveil a unique Citroën C4.

The ‘Ultimate Arsenal Fans’ Car’ was designed by Scarfe in consultation with the players and is being raffled in aid of Arsenal’s Charity of the Season, Teenage Cancer Trust.
Citroën, Arsenal Football Club’s official car supplier, donated the stylish new C4 to the Club for the unique project to help raise awareness and funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Tickets to win the car cost just £2 with all funds going to Teenage Cancer Trust.

The car will be displayed at the Emirates Stadium for the next three Arsenal home matches (14th March Arsenal FC vs. Blackburn, 4th April Arsenal FC vs. Manchester City and 26th April Arsenal FC vs. Middlesbrough).

Supporters are invited to give their input on what they would like to find inside the hatchback via http://www.arsenal.com/tctcitroenc4