With the first images of the open-top version of the DS3 B-segment hatchback having already hit the net, Citroen today released official information and a boatload of images of the DS3 Cabrio prior to its live appearance at the Paris Motor Show next month.
The DS3 Cabrio is based on the closed-top model which, in the two years since its launch, has already sold close to 180,000 units. The Cabrio sports the exact same dimensions at 3.95 m long, 1.71 m wide and 1.46 m high.
The obvious difference is that the center section of the roof has given its place to a folding canvas top, though the doors and roof arches remain intact.
The soft top is available in three designs named black, “Infini” blue and DS Monogramme, while buyers can also choose from 10 different colors for the surrounding roof bars (Urban Tribe, Onde, Perle, Zèbre, Map, Plane, Co Design, Flavio, Flower and Graphic Art).
A button on the ceiling console operates the top that takes 16 seconds to open or close at speeds of up to 120 km/h (75 mph) and can be set in three positions: fully open, horizontal and intermediate.
Citroen claims that its engineers have ensured that the soundproofing on the roof offers acoustics comparable to the hatchback DS3 with the top closed. They have also added a deflector net when the roof opens, which prevents air buffeting.
The French company offers six different interior trims (grey, Brillant black, white, Carbotech, Infini blue and Moondust grey) and seven body colours.
At the rear end, the DS3 Cabrio sports “3D” taillights, comprising a rectangular set of 31 LEDs and semi-reflecting mirrors, and a chrome-finished handle at the top of the tail gate.
Even though Citroen did not remove the roof completely, it still had to add structural reinforcements around the boot. According to the automaker, the total weight increased by 25 kg while the aerodynamics are identical to the hatchback thanks to the addition of a long spoiler and aerodynamic deflectors on the quarter-light surrounds.
The French company notes that the DS3 Cabrio is the only real five-seater in its segment and also has largest boot at 245 liters.
The DS3 Cabrio borrows its engine line up from the regular model and will include an eco-friendly version emitting just 99 g/km of CO2.
It will be manufactured at the Citroen’s Poissy plant in France and will go on sale in Europe early next year.
By Andrew Tsaousis
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