First Details - Citroën's New 3.0HDi V6 Diesel

More Power, Yet Better Economy & Less CO2

Citroën has released first details of an advanced 3.0HDi V6 240hp engine to be introduced to the C5 and C6 ranges later this summer. The unit is the most powerful production engine in the history of the Marque.

It delivers the neat trick of offering more power and improved performance, alongside better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions. The new engine improves fuel economy by 13-17% and reduces CO2 by 12-15%, compared to the current 2.7HDi V6 208hp unit.

With advanced new engine technology, the new V6 diesel incorporates the third generation of Citroën’s common-rail direct injection system and offers drivers a refined driving experience with its quiet operation and more efficient performance. Delivering an abundance of torque, the new V6 diesel provides exceptional driving pleasure for every-day motoring.

Fuel saving features in the new engine include a piloted alternator, which recovers energy during deceleration and braking. The engine also fully complies with future Euro V standards, ahead of the compulsory introduction to production vehicles in January 2011.

Mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox, the powerful and efficient unit means drivers can now benefit from up to 38mpg on the combined cycle. Highlighting Citroën’s continuing commitment to the environment, not only does this engine come with a Diesel Particulate Filter System (DPFS) for an ultra-clean exhaust, but CO2 emissions are also reduced to 195g/km.

The improved emissions also put both new C5 and C6 V6 diesel models into the lower Tax band J, creating a saving of £325 on cars registered in the 2010/11 RFL period.

 

Citroën's Clean ‘Green’ Winning Streak – Grand C4 Picasso's unbeaten run as ‘Best Green MPV’ at 2009 WHAT CAR? Green Awards

Citroën’s firm family favourite, the Grand C4 Picasso, has been named ‘Best Green MPV’ for the second year running at What Car?’s Green Awards - the only MPV to have been awarded the title since the awards were introduced.

The Grand C4 Picasso impressed the What Car? judges with its clean and efficient 1.6HDi 110bhp engine delivering money-saving fuel economy of 53.3mpg, CO2 emissions of just 140g/km and the pulling power to comfortably transport seven adults with luggage. While consumers shift their priorities from greener to more frugal driving, the Grand C4 Picasso allows drivers to enjoy the best of both as well as some of the best space, technology, comfort and visibility in the class.

What Car? Editor, Steve Fowler, commented; “The Grand C4 Picasso is fully deserving of this award for the second year in a row. It’s affordable to buy and own, practical, well-equipped, good to drive and emits far less CO2 than most rivals. In fact, for a car this size, carbon dioxide emissions of 140g/km are a terrific achievement.”

Earlier this year, the Grand C4 Picasso was also named What Car?’s ‘Best MPV’ for the third time in a row, and this latest accolade is further confirmation of the model’s success story.

The C3 Picasso was also a highly commended runner-up in the MPV category. The judges praised Citroën’s ‘Spacebox’ MPV for being ‘the best real-world small MPV around’ and for its ‘clean and efficient’ petrol engine. The panel were also impressed with the model’s practicality and affordability.

Step inside the Citroën DS Concept Car

Citroën has provided its first hint at the interior styling of the all-new DS3 by unveiling a new iteration of the DS Inside concept model.

At its launch in early 2010, the DS3 will present owners with an unprecedented range of touches to express their personality, and the haute-couture cabin of the latest DS Inside goes some way to previewing the level of detail and individuality that will be available.

The dashboard is flowing and airy, whilst the instrument cluster, steering wheel and low, body-hugging seats extend the feeling of dynamism. Black chrome touches around the cabin and a thick lounge style carpet, leave the DS Inside exuding class, style and distinction. The concept is strikingly finished with a premium leather roof in pearlescent ivory with a powder-like finish that bears the DS insignia.

The styling project for the DS line has been led by British designer, Mark Lloyd. Beginning with the DS3, the new DS line will deliver a powerful identity to the Citroën family. Representing “Different Spirit”, it will present an identity strong on modernity and distinction, drawing its DNA clearly from Citroën’s history of innovation and unforgettable design.

Citroën has embarked on a new project to look into the feasibility of producing an ultra-environmentally friendly vehicle based on the critically acclaimed C-Cactus concept car.

The C-Cactus represents a new approach to eco-friendly design. The radical, essentialist vehicle, with its emphasis on environmental technology, features a simplified design throughout, significantly reducing the number of components and leading to a reduction in weight, cost and the impact on the environment.

Removing features that are non-essential to the running of the car or the comfort and safety of the occupants – even doing away with the dashboard – has resulted in an interior comprising around half the parts of a similarly-sized conventional car. The door panels are made of just two parts, compared to twelve in a conventional car and many components are made from recycled materials.

The project will consider a range of powerplants including a 1.0 litre, sub 100g/km CO2 , petrol; a HYmotion2 diesel–electric hybrid returning near 100mpg fuel economy and CO2 emissions of just 78g/km or a 100% electric model, similar to the version which is on display at the Paris motor show and which offers zero emissions together with a top speed and range of almost 70mph and 100 miles respectively.