Test Drive Citroen DS3 since 2009 hatchback

Citroen DS3. Old people are not a place

Test Drive Fiat Doblocitroen DS3. Price: from 649,000 rubles. On sale: since May 2010

Reviving Abbreviation DS, Citroen decided not to indulge nostalgia: followers of the legendary Citroen DS19 will not have anything in common with their predecessor

Test pilot
Maxim Fedorov, 32 years old, car journalist, driving experience 6 years, personal car - Ford Focus II

Unlike reincarnated Mini or Fiat 500, in the Citroen DS genetic code, there are no progenitor DNA. If the French tried to make modern interpretation of the DS19, they would have to drive themselves into a hard framework due to the class and body type of the car.

But the Citroen is wider. For them, abbreviation DS is a new brand under which several models of different segments will be released. Following the compact Citroen DS3, DS4 and DS5 will appear, respectively, respectively to the C- and D-segment.

What is DS3, if not the three-door version of Citroen C3? Yes, the chassis here is exactly the same, and the salon is like two drops of water, but nevertheless these cars are different. Even with the face of Alfas, you can find a number of differences. Thus, in the three-door Citroen emblem blurred in the shape of edging of the radiator lattice, and on the place where the C3 has a double chevron, there is a new logo of intertwined letters D and S. Citroen DS3 samoye scholar design with spectacular central fin and darkened body racks, Creating an effect of the soaring roof (this is perhaps the only detail in which the similarity of the novelty can be caught with Citroen DS19).

But the most important and decisive difference DS3 from C3 is another. For buyers of the three-door version, the widest possibilities for the configuration of the car's appearance are provided. Choosing various color solutions for the body, roofs and plastic linings in the cabin, experimenting with the design and size of the wheelboys, as well as options for the upholstery and the drawings of the roof appliques, you can collect the car to your liking. Real lego for adults!

Another feature of the novelty engines. For Citroen DS3, accessories of 1.6 liter beemwash aggregates: atmospheric 120-strong and turbocharged, 150 liters. With. At Citroen C3, such motors are not put, and sorry! After taking the sharpening, the 150-strong version behind the wheel, I got a lot of positive emotions, not only from the dynamics, but also from a clear work of the 6-speed mechanics. When familiarizing with the new C3, it was the omissible selectivity of the transmission for me the main minus in general is very sour and obedient in the management of the car. Here, this disadvantage was leveled, which is why the ride process has become a truly exciting occupation.


What do you want, choose
Buyer Citroen DS3 can choose one of the four colors of the roof and applique for it, pick up the original color for alloy wheels, as well as the housing of the mirrors and edging doors. In addition, there are eight types of front panel decor, seven variations of the gear shift lever, three leather finish colors ... so as not to get confused in this manifold, you can use the ready-made solution: Citroen designers have come up with seven win-win plotting combinations. About exclusivity In this case, speech does not go, but it will be possible to get such a car much faster.


Driving
The suspension shakes, but the car rings perfectly.

Salon
The same stylish and high-quality, like C3, but with a claim for individuality. You can choose even a drawing on the salon mats.

Comfort
On the second row, passengers are surprising not closely, but at the front at all.

Safety
The system of compulsory speed limit will not get caught on the radar.

Price
It is not suicato, but if you compare with mini or Alfa Romeo Mito, then not so expensive.


Assistance and shortcomings
+ Design Unisex, many finishing options, rich basic equipment, roomy interior, excellent handling, powerful engines.
- High initial price, hard suspension.


Specifications
Brand and Model - Citroen DS3 1.6 THP
Dimensions - 3950x1715x1460 mm
Engine - gasoline, 4 cylinders, 1598 cm3, 150 hp / 6000 min-1
Transmission - Mechanical, 6-speed
Dynamics - 214 km / h; 8.1 s to 100 km / h
Competitors - Audi A1, Mini, Alfa Romeo Mito.


Our opinion
Citroen decided to take away bread from tuning-office, engaged in satisfying the needs of car owners in the individualization of the appearance of their car. Now tuning is put on the stream: for Citroen DS3 buyers, the car is hampered right at the factory in French Puissy.


Posted by: Maxim Fedorov

 

A source: Journal 5 Wheel [April 2010]