Citroen has been rapidly expanding its DS sub-brand, which at the moment includes the DS3, DS4 and DS5 models. Now, if a report from Autocar is to be believed, the success of the DS3 supermini has prompted the French carmaker to effectively double its DS range.
The first of the three new models will most likely be a luxury flagship sedan based on the well-received Metropolis concept that was exhibited at the 2010 Shanghai Show.
The impressive limousine measures 5.3 m long but just 1.4m tall and in concept form, is motivated by a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.0-liter V6 petrol engine with an electric motor for a total output of 272HP.
Citroen’s product planning chief, Thomas d’Haussy, said that the flagship model would be aimed at the Chinese market and most likely won’t make it to Europe, since all of PSA efforts in the luxury segment have proved unsuccessful.
What Europe will get, according to d’Haussy, is a DS-badged city car. The huge success of the stylish Fiat 500 prompted Citroen’s management to consider an upmarket mini since there seems to be a huge demand for distinctive, customizable city cars.
If Citroen gives the DS1 the green light, it will be based on the second-generation C1 that along with its Peugeot 107 and Toyota Aygo siblings, are expected to debut at next year’s Paris Motor Show.
D’Haussy hinted that the third model may be a hybrid, all-wheel drive version of the DS4 that using the same drivetrain as the 3008 and DS5.
The Citroen chief also noted that the DS Racing project is yet another effort worth pursuing and that the DS3 Racing “wasn’t a one-off”, adding that “we could have sold more than the 2,300 we did.”
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