Citroen’s tasty trio set for Frankfurt

Citroen has chosen this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show (12-25 September) to show off a trio of new models. The awesome-looking C-SportLounge concept car stars alongside the eagerly awaited flagship Citroen C6, whilst an updated version of the C3 supermini is being introduced to the world.

Capturing the true essence of a Grand Tourer for the twenty-first century, the Citroen C-SportLounge beautifully combines powerful, sleek lines along with 2+2 comfort and refinement.

Over 4.5m long, the C-SportLounge’s flowing lines, flared wheel arches housing 20" alloys, imposing front end design and distinctive use of chrome detailing, all combine to communicate power and elegance. Power can be provided by either petrol or diesel engines, delivering up to 200bhp, and is translated via a paddle-shift six-speed gearbox.

Thanks to its eye-catching design and incorporation of advanced technological features, the C-SportLounge is remarkably aerodynamic, with an ultra-low drag coefficient of just 0.26. The various features include a three-point reverse mobile aerofoil, an electro-mechanical system that creates a virtual aerofoil, air ducts on both sides of the front bumper and a smooth underbelly.

Inside the sculpted body, the driver sits in an aviation-inspired, one-piece ‘cockpit’, equipped with several easy-to-read translucent yellow displays. The ‘pilot’ only has to reach for the roof-mounted start button to breath life into this latest concept, while on-board touch screens in the front doors give access to numerous functions such as the telecommunication, navigation and multimedia systems.

The use of high quality materials, as exemplified by the padded, bronze-coloured leather upholstery, contributes to the luxurious ambiance of the interior, where the large windscreen and four-part sunroof ensure a light and airy feel. LED lighting in the armrests further enhances the refined feel of the cabin, while the C-SportLounge’s reverse opening doors provide easy access to the rear seats.

The Frankfurt Show also provides car enthusiasts with the opportunity to view the elegant and sophisticated C6, set to hit the UK’s showrooms early next year. With its coupé-like styling and limo-style comfort and refinement, the C6 clearly builds on Citroen’s long and illustrious heritage of creating large, stylish, executive cars.

At the same time, Citroen’s new model looks to the future by incorporating cutting-edge features and technologies. A Head-Up display, active bonnet, hydractive suspension with electronically-controlled springing and damping, speed-sensitive air deflector and laminated side windows are all expected to be standard on most UK models, which will come with either high performance V6 petrol or diesel engines.

Visitors to the Show will be the first to see how the looks of the curvy C3 have been updated to further increase the appeal of Citroen’s popular small car. And with the announcement that a 1.6HDi 110hp diesel engine is to be introduced to the range, offering an excellent power/weight ratio, the new C3 will also be even better placed to meet the growing demand for compact, flexible and frugal diesel superminis.

The new C3’s redesigned front end features a more imposing bumper, wider lower air intake, single air intake slit below the restyled radiator grille and a re-positioned number plate. The rear is brightened up by the newly designed lights with crystal coloured section, while new 16" alloys and 15" embellishers can provide the finishing touches.

The passenger compartment of the new C3 has been significantly enhanced with the fitting of a restyled dashboard with high-quality finish, as well as a new, modern instrument cluster making the driver information easier to read. Smart, light metallic grey embellishers around the central section of the fascia and air vents contribute to the updated interior, as do the completely re-designed front and rear door panels and trims.

The new high performance 1.6HDi 110hp engine combines excellent useable low-rev pulling power (240Nm at just 1,750rpm) with superb fuel economy of almost 63mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 120g/km. A built-in overboost function delivers an additional 20Nm of torque when short bursts of acceleration are needed.

The C2 and C3 Pluriel ranges also benefit from the C3’s upgraded dashboard. In addition, a new environmentally-friendly C2 Stop & Start model will also be unveiled
at Frankfurt, which will benefit from the same innovative technology currently available on the C3.

The C2 Stop & Start will be equipped with a 1.4i 16V 90bhp petrol engine, mated to a SensoDrive gearbox, and will offer customers reduced fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions, whilst also eliminating all noise when the vehicle is stationary. An electronically controlled reversible alternator stops the engine as the vehicle comes to a standstill and automatically starts the engine again once the brake pedal is released.