Citroen DS3 in South Africa with new engines
The addition of Puretech engine technology in the Citroen DS3 is just the start of a more focused line-up for 2016. It also marks 60 years of DS heritage, started by the DS19 in 1955 and staying true to those virtues all these years later.
The 2016 Citroen DS3 range now includes five models comprised four engines, two gearboxes and three levels of trim. Those previous cost options are now included in the deal, making for a better value package. In fact, extended warranty, service plan or metallic paint form the only cost options above the advertised price.
“The DS nameplate enjoys special significance in the Citroën universe,” says Francis Harnie, managing director of PCSA. “It expresses the elegance, forward-thinking design, innovation and heritage that is at the core of Citroën’s products, but in an even more concentrated, more individual way.
“The upgraded Citroen DS3 line-up presents the distinctive DS offering in a more focused range that emphasises high across-the-range equipment levels, new engine technology and a more succinct naming structure. It is further proof of our commitment to the SA market and its customers, and our intention to offer local buyers meaningful, desirable products,” Harnie concluded.
Engine range starts with the normally aspirated 60kW 3-cylinder engine and ends with the 1.6-litre 4-cylinder with 120kW and 240Nm. Between that there’s the 81kW/205Nm 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbo which will probably prove the most popular with 0-100km/h in 10.6 seconds and low running costs. Manual transmissions are still favoured but there’s an antiquated four-speed box in the mix. That specific model also happens to be one of the thirstier drivetrain options with 6.6l/100km and Co2 emissions of 150g/km. Other engines have more competitive figures with consumption figures under 5.0l/100km (claimed) and Co2 emissions under 120g/km – and therefore exempt from tax.
Besides those chic aesthetics, the DS3 impresses with the high level of standard kit. Aside from steel wheels in the base model, there’s LED lights, upmarket Alcantara trim, multifunction wheel, Bluetooth, USB, six airbags and various traction and stability modes. Jump into the Style model and besides an upgrade to alloys, comes with rear parking sensors, auto headlamps, tinted windows and auto wipers. The THP 120kW Sport chips in automatic climate control, upgraded audio, and satellite navigation.
Citroen DS3 pricing, service and warranty
Prices include a three-year/100 000 km warranty, a four-year/60 000 km service plan and three years of 24-hour AA Roadside Assistance. A five-year/100 000 km warranty extension and FreeDrive (comprising a five-year/100 000 km warranty plus five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan) can be specified at added cost.
DS3 PureTech 60 kW DESIGN R239 900
DS3 e-THP PureTech 81 kW STYLE R279 900
DS3 VTi 88 kW STYLE Automatic R294 900
DS3 Cabrio e-THP Puretech 81 kW STYLE R304 900
DS3 e-THP 120 kW SPORT R329 900
