Citroen has boosted it’s already stylish DS range of passenger cars with the addition of the DS3 Cabrio, a cabriolet take on the DS3 hatch. In its relative short life since its introduction three years ago, the DS3 has proven to be a popular model for Citroen and motorists alike, with approximately 180,000 units sold worldwide. The DS3 is charming hatchback that’s now got another string added to its bow, with the introduction of this new Cabrio variant.
The loss of a solid roof has thankfully not detracted from the DS3’s proficient road handling capabilities, which impressed us in its hatch sibling last year. Citroen’s engineers have managed to design and build a cabriolet model that’s just 25 kilograms heavier than the DS3 hatchback. The Cabrio variant is just as much fun to drive on a twisty country road, it darts around corners with an abundance of grip, the steering is accurately weighted with plenty of feedback felt through the steering wheel. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that powered our test car is an eager unit, delivering 155hp and 240Nm of torque. The throttle response is sharp and encourages you to enjoy a spirited drive. There is also a 1.2-litre variant available, it produces 80hp and a 1.6-litre e-HDi 92hp diesel engine, our preferred choice is definitely the 1.6-litre THP petrol unit, it’s perfectly suited to the character and exceptional chassis of the DS3 Cabrio.
It’s whisper quiet inside too, with the canvas roof fully closed, it can close from its fully retracted position in just 16 seconds at speeds of up to 120km/h. When the roof is fully open, with the rear window folded down the visibility is somewhat hindered in the rear view mirror. The interior of the DS3 Cabrio is as stylish as its exterior, with coloured dash inserts, air vent surrounds and gear stick to coordinate with the body colour of the car.
The DS3 Cabrio is available across three trim levels, DSIGN, DSTYLE and DSPORT. Customers can also choose from one of three soft-top roofs, black, Infinite blue and DS Monogramme. The entry-level DSIGN variant comes with an abundance of equipment as standard, this includes sports suspension, rear parking sensors, cruise control with speed limiter, 3D LED rear lights, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and ESC (Electronic Stability Control). The DSTYLE variant is treated to 16” alloy wheels, daytime running LEDs, air conditioning and interior mood lighting. Our test car was the DSPORT model, some of its features include, 17” alloy wheels, double chrome exhaust, climate control, anti-theft alarm, Bluetooth and USB connectivity and a carbon fibre effect dashboard.
The DS range is a fresh, modern line-up of stylish cars from Citroen. The addition of the DS3 Cabrio further strengthens its array and is one that genuinely puts a smile on your face when driving.
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