Citroën is launching two new models as part of its aspirations as a global brand. The Citroën C-Elysée and the Citroën C4 L will launch in Mediterranean and Chinese markets by the end of 2012, and in Russian markets in 2013.
It will officially launch its DS brand in China on June 28. Citroën's DS3, DS 4 and DS5 models will go on sale shortly after.
The Citroën C-Elysée will be manufactured at PSA’s factory in Vigo, Spain and is destined for Turkey, Spain, central Europe and Algeria. The three-box C-segment saloon will be powered by PSA’s new VTi 72 petrol engine which Citroën says has been specially tailored to driving conditions and fuel quality in emerging markets.
The new engine produces 72bhp and 81lb ft of torque from 3000rpm. Fuel consumption is rated at 56.5mpg and emissions are 115g/km, a 22 per cent improvement on the 1.4-litre unit it replaces. Is will be offered with a five-speed manual or automated gearbox. The new VTi 115 engine, combined with a manual or automatic gearbox is also available, alongide PSA's HDi 92 engine which emits 108g/km and can return 68.9mpg.
Citroën claims the C-Elysée will have a roomy interior with a rear that is comparable with cars in the D-segment and a 506-litre boot. A 2.65m wheelbase makes it the longest in its class.
The Citroën C4 L is positioned towards the top of the C-segment and is the first model to emerge from Citroën’s Shanghai style centre. The C4 L will be built locally in each of the countries it will be sold. Production will begin in Kaluga, Russia and at the PSA/Dongfeng plant in Wuhan, China in the first half of 2013.
The engine line-up will comprise the BMW/PSA-developed THP 155 and 175 petrol engines and PSA’s own VTi 135 unit. Both engines will be offered with a new automatic or a sequential six-speed gearbox.
Citroën claims a first-class passenger experience with a “lounge-like” rear compartment made possible by a long wheelbase, wraparound seats and steeply reclined backrests with “extra-comfortable” headrests. Keyless entry and start, touchscreen sat-nav, a reversing camera, heated front windscreen and air ioniser will be offered.
