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Citroen has revealed details of its planned upmarket DS4 and DS5 models which are scheduled for launch in 2011.
As their names suggest, these will be mechanically related to the C4 and C5 ranges, but they will be even further differentiated from their counterparts than the DS3 and C3.
The DS4 is inspired by the C-Sportlounge concept, and will have a high-riding crossover feel.
The C-Sportlounge, which was revealed in 2005, was an egg-shaped coupe-come-MPV hybrid, which also influenced the styling of the latest C4 Picasso. A sporty 2+2, it was described by designer Mark Lloyd as ‘a GT for the modern age’.
Such a model would supplement the continuing C4 hatchbacks and Picasso – as well as give Citroen a rival for the likes of the Nissan Qashqai and Peugeot 3008.
DS5 will also have a crossover character: Citroen references the BMW X6 as an example of a similar coupe-SUV.
It will be derived from the Hypnos concept, which was revealed at the Paris motor show last autumn, and and while the production version will not get the rear-hinged ‘suicide’ rear doors, or colour-changing upholstery, it will take a very similar outline as well as a diesel-electric hybrid powertrain.
The production version of the DS3, meanwhile, will be launched at the Frankfurt motor show this autumn.
Citroen insiders say that many details of the DS Inside concept will make it into the real thing; though the textured leather roof isn’t viable, a similar vinyl option may well be available. Even the leather seats, with interlocking patches and colour graduating from black to pale grey, could be offered.
Mechanically, the DS3 will share the same underpinnings and some of the powertrains of the new C3, which will also make its debut in Frankfurt. Its engines will include the 150bhp turbocharged 1.6 petrol unit fitted in the DS Inside.
However, ‘every body panel will be different’, says Citroen – not least because the DS3 will be a three-door supermini, and the mainstream C3 five-door only.
Citroen has also revealed that production of current C3 and Pluriel is to end in November, that there's no plans to replace the Pluriel, and that a car derived from the C-Cactus concept could be used to replace the out-going C2, which will not be replaced.
Farah Alkhalisi
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