Citroen to launch hot version of DS3 model

Citroën will take the wraps off its new premium model, the DS3, which is due in New Zealand in August, when it reveals the 147 kW Citroen DS3 Racing at the Geneva International Motor Show in March.

Citroën has shown its mettle in the world of racing by dominating the World Rally Championship over the past six years – six manufacturers’ titles and seven drivers’ titles for Citroen’s Sébastien Loeb – so the Racing DS3 is sure to be real performance machine.

While official performance figures have not been released yet, the 1.6-litre turbocharged engine offers 147kW and 275 Nm of torque on tap.

The chassis of the DS3 has been reworked, with the suspension lowered, the track widened, 18 inch alloy wheels fitted, the springs stiffened and the shock absorbers re-rated. Additionally the brakes have been enlarged and the ESP system has been reprogrammed.

“The Citroën DS3 Racing represents an outstanding concentration of behind-the-wheel thrills with an artful blend of performance and efficiency,” says Lawrie Malatios, General Manager for Citroen in New Zealand.

“The DS3 Racing will take up its place in the DS3 range with an appealing combination of verve and vitality and it provides a clear indication of what we can expect when the DS3 arrives in New Zealand in August.”

The DS3 Racing will be launched in Europe with a limited series of 1000 units in second-half 2010. New Zealand availability will be announced when the DS3 is launched in August.