Range Rover

Citroen C-Elysée and Citroen C4 L are the new models which are part of the Citroen’s goal to extend the C range. Both cars have been developed for overseas markets, and if they both look a little familiar, there's good reason.

The C-Elysée will be European-built (in Spain) and go on sale in Central Europe, Turkey and Algeria by the end of this year, expected to be powered by PSA’s lower powered 1.4-liter and 1.6-liter diesel engines, as well as their petrol counterparts - it won’t get any THP turbo engines, though.

As for mechanicals,the C4 L will be available with three engine choices, these being the THP 150 and 170 as well as a normally-aspirated VTi 135. These can be paired to a new automatic or sequential six-speed gearbox. The C4 L is set to be manufactured in each of the zones where it will be sold, and this is Wuhan, China (by end 2012) and Kaluga, Russia (first half of 2013).

Interior features include a lounge-like rear compartment as the result of the long wheelbase, with wraparound seats, backrests inclined to 29° and headrests designed for added comfort being part of the parcel. Innovative technologies include hands-free access and start, touch-screen GPS, reversing camera, fully heated windscreen and air ioniser.




Press Release


CITROËN STEPS UP ITS STRATEGY FOR INTERNATIONAL GROWTH WITH TWO NEW MODELS


Citroën is stepping up its worldwide development and consolidating its standing as a global brand.


After Europe, Russia and Latin America, the DS line will be launched in China on 28 June. The brand is also extending and modernising its main range with two new models. Citroën is strengthening its product offering, in particular in the C segment, in order to break into high-growth international markets such as the Mediterranean basin, China and Russia. The compact saloon market is the biggest automotive market in the world, with more than 20 million vehicle registrations in 2011, representing almost one third of all worldwide sales of passenger cars.


Citroën is launching the new Citroën C-Elysée and the C4 L, a ‘lounge' version of the C4 to cover this market, 43% of which is made up of three-box models in Russia, and even 79% in China. These two saloons have highly specific personalities, form a tight fit in their respective market positioning and respect the codes of their target segments. Harnessing all the expertise of Citroën's international teams, these French-designed models embody the excellence of the Brand in terms of style, technology, development and quality.


The new Citroën C-Elysée was designed to meet the expectations of a demanding clientele, looking for a car that is both attractive and accessible. With its harmonious, prestigious and robust styling, it is every inch a Citroën. The innovative design offers a roomy interior that is ideal for families (a rear compartment befitting a saloon in the next higher category and a 506-litre VDA boot), thanks to the 2.65 m wheelbase, the longest in its category. It can also be fitted out with a broad range of comfort equipment, from air conditioning with a digital readout, to the MP3 car radio with its Bluetooth handsfree kit. On certain markets, the new Citroën C-Elysée will also be available with the latest-generation VTi 72 engine, boasting technology that combines top performance with moderate fuel consumption and durability. Finally, it also benefits from the Brand's full range of expert knowledge and know-how, from the chassis and suspension, to quality assurance. The car's design (specific clearance, protective guards, etc.) was tested all over the world and under all driving conditions, guaranteeing reliability to stand any test. Points that are all fundamental for very demanding customers who view their car as a long-term investment. Manufactured in Vigo, Spain, this three-box saloon will initially be launched in
Turkey, Spain, Central Europe and Algeria at the end of 2012.


The Citroën C4 L is positioned in the top part of the C segment. Just like the Citroën C4, this visibly prestigious and elegant car offers all of the Brand's emblematic qualities, from a range-topping finish, to outstandingly comfortable suspension and standard-setting onboard comforts. The new model exudes positive energy. It is the first Citroën to come out of the Shanghai style centre. The elegant and dynamic lines, highlighted by a light signature at the front and the rear, produce the effect of a prestigious profile at first sight. On board, the driver and passengers enjoy the pleasures of first-class travel, thanks to thr quiet and the comfortable temperature of the interior, the lounge-like rear compartment (long wheelbase, wraparound seats, backrests inclined at 29°, extra-comfortable headrests) and innovative comfort-enhancing technology (hands-free access and start, touch-screen GPS, reversing camera, fully heated windscreen, air ioniser, etc.). The Citroën C4 L is also fitted with latest-generation petrol engines: the THP 155/170 (according to country), developed in partnership with the BMW Group, and the VTi 135. Both engines can be mated to a new automatic and sequential 6-speed gearbox. To meet the specific needs of each of its markets more closely, the Citroën C4 L will be made in each of the zones where it will be sold: in Wuhan, China by the end of 2012 and Kaluga, Russia in the first half of 2013.


Citroën's international activity:
- 500,000 vehicles sold outside Europe in 2011
- 33% of sales outside Europe, up 10 points in 10 years and 3 points up on 2010
- 1,000 of points of contact with customers in more than 55 countries outside Europe

Citroen has unveiled today the first details on the new DS4, the second model in Citroen’s distinctively-styled DS line. Official debut will be made at the Paris Auto Show and sales will begin in 2011.

Based on the Citroen C4, the vehicle measures 4.27m in length, 1.81m in width and 1.53m in height. Even though the car comes in a coupe-like form, Citroen promises that this does not sacrifice practicality, as the vehicle is a proper 2+2 (the handles of the rear doors are hidden), offering rear seats that can accommodate 2 adults and providing a boot space of 370 liters.

The Citroen DS4 will be available with a choice of 5 engines – two HDi diesels and three petrol engines. The most powerful is the 200 horsepower THP petrol engine, joined by a THP 155 and a VTi 120. All three are different variants of the 1.6 liter BMW-PSA Prince engine, with the THPs being turbocharged and the VTi being a normally aspirated model. You can either have these with a manual transmission or a Citroen EGS transmission which is an AMT-type automated clutch manual.

The Citroen DS4 has a 2+2 door configuration and offers 370-litre (VDA) of boot space, and various other storage spaces including a cooled, illuminated one, protected by a sliding cover that can hold up to four 50-cl bottles.

The interior boasts higher-class materials than in the regular C4 hatch. Liberal use of chrome for the dials, leather on the dash and doors, plus aluminium for the pedals demonstrates the firm’s attention to getting the luxury details right. Buyers will be given the choice of five leather combinations. Top-specification cars feature hide trim designed to mimic expensive watch bracelets linked together. Meanwhile, every variant gets a panoramic windscreen which extends backwards into the roof line and helps bathe the cabin in light.

Press release

Citroën has released first details for the new DS4, a unique and attractive blend of creativity, dynamism, exclusivity and versatility. DS4 is the second model in Citroën’s distinctively-styled DS line.

DS4 brings an alluring mixture of premium design codes and a bold approach to automotive styling, with an emphasis on driving pleasure and advanced vehicle architecture. DS4 is a model with a multitude of talents, effortlessly responding to a broad range of owner needs, while enhancing the appeal and vitality of the motoring experience.

DS4 combines sophistication and refinement with a dynamic coupé-like body, creating exceptional versatility and day-to-day practicality within a compact design - 4.27m (l), 1.81m (w) & 1.53m (h).

DS4 delivers a “new at-the-wheel” experience with unrivalled driving sensations and outstanding agile on-road handling. With its slightly raised stance and taut lines, DS4 is a unique and eye-catching addition to the segment.

Finely crafted to convey a prestigious presence both inside and out, DS4 offers meticulous detailing from carefully applied chrome touches to premium cabin materials - such as the finest quality leather seats. A large panoramic windscreen, offering enhanced occupant visibility, illuminates the driver-focused cockpit, creating a bright and welcoming environment.

Combining coupé style with 2+2 door practicality, DS4 offers three full-sized rear seats, accessed by rear doors with hidden handles that are seamlessly integrated into the body’s flowing lines. DS4 also benefits from a capacious 370-litre boot and a host of clever storage solutions.

DS4 comes with a choice of five refined and efficient engines - two HDi diesels and three petrol powerplants. All engines deliver a combination of powerful performance – including a new to Citroën 200hp petrol unit - and ecologically sensitive motoring. Citroën’s new e-HDi drivetrains for example deliver improved fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.

DS4 will be revealed at the 2010 Paris Motor Show and is expected to go on sale later in 2011.

UNIQUE STYLING

An example of truly creative design, DS4 boldly blends a mix of the most desirable styling references to create an exciting new automotive proposition. Marc Pinson, DS4’s chief stylist, comments, “Reinterpreting cues opened up new possibilities, bringing practical and surprising solutions to automotive mobility”.

Compact and muscular, the DS signature on the bonnet is complemented by a striking LED light signature around the front fog lights. The LEDs are illuminated both day and night. The eye-catching profile, featuring a chrome-finished waistline surrounding dark tinted windows, is enhanced by muscular wheel arches - that emphasise the large wheels (up to 19”) - and is crowned by a tautly drawn roofline with a spoiler for added vitality. The lower part of the rear bumper is finished in chrome and the horizontal detailing on the rear light clusters highlights their innovative boomerang design.

TAILORED INTERIOR

As with its prestigious exterior, DS4’s cabin exudes power, dynamism and refinement. The driving position is enveloping, with chrome-surround dials focused directly towards the driver’s eye-line. The characterful, sculptured dashboard also uses high quality materials for a superior tactile feel.

DS4’s cabin is dominated by the large panoramic windscreen that extends backwards into the roofline. Offering up to 45° of upward vision, the panoramic glazed area combines with DS4’s slightly raised stance, to provide optimised visibility for the driver, with a bright yet intimate, airy cabin environment for passengers.

Allowing owners to personalise the interior, DS4 is available with a choice of five leather combinations, including two-tone options. Range-topping models are also equipped with high quality leather on the dashboard and door panels - complete with a ‘Bracelet’ design on the seats, evoking the links of a watch strap.

For an added touch of luxury, there is chrome detailing on the air vent surrounds, instrument cluster, gear lever and parts of the central console. Aluminium pedals, embossed leather door handles and ambient lighting are further evidence of DS4’s attention to premium detail.

NATURALLY DYNAMIC & AGILE

With its high-set, taut and agile stance, DS4 is tuned for dynamic performance, appealing to drivers looking for an involving motoring experience. “We really wanted drivers to feel like they have the road at the tips of their fingers”, says Jérémie Maestracci, DS4’s project manager.

On the road, DS4 exercises exemplary control, giving occupants a reassuring sense of safety in all circumstances. Fitted with a MacPherson type suspension assembly at the front, a flexible transverse beam at the rear and hydraulic steering with an electric pump unit, the platform is a tried and tested solution tailored for the distinctive set-up of the car.

Depending on trim level, DS4 is fitted with large-diameter (340mm) ventilated disc brakes and, as standard, with dedicated braking control systems, including ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). Ensuring optimal vehicle control in the most demanding driving situations, DS4 also features intelligent traction control with ESP.

DS4 will be launched with a choice of five refined and highly efficient Euro 5 engines. The two HDi diesels - an HDi 110 (also available as an e-HDi version) and an HDi 160 - are both fitted with Citroën’s Diesel Particulate Filter System. The three petrol powerplants - VTi 120, THP 155 and the new THP 200 - were co-developed with BMW. The new THP 200 - based on the 1.6-litre engine - delivers flexible power delivery and performance thanks to its power output (147kW), plentiful torque (275Nm at 1,700rpm) - with low CO2 emissions of just 149g/km. All engines are available with manual or EGS six-speed gearboxes.

Special attention has been given to the car’s internal acoustics, retaining the refined atmosphere on-board by minimising engine vibration, wind and road noise. This has been achieved by specifying a laminated panoramic windscreen with damping film, fitting additional sound absorbent material around the engine compartment and enhanced sealing barriers on the body and doors.

EXPERTLY EFFICIENT

DS4 was designed from the start to have a reduced environmental footprint - especially evident in its construction - by using top-quality components, an ecologically focused manufacturing process and the use of ‘green materials’ - around 15% of the 200kg of plastic used in DS4 vehicle is derived from ‘green materials.’ DS4 can be specified with Citroen’s micro-hybrid e-HDi technology, which is available from launch on versions powered by the HDi 110 engine.
The e HDi system comprises of:

• an economical HDi Euro V diesel power plant
• a new generation Stop & Start system, which instantly cuts out the engine when the car comes to a halt (red lights, traffic jams).
• a second-generation reversible alternator and an e-booster function that restarts the engine instantly (0.4 seconds)
• an electronically controlled alternator that recovers energy during braking;
• an electronic gearbox system (EGS) with optimised gear changes.

All required features such as the radio, air-conditioning and steering functions remain in operation when the engine is stopped by the system. This innovative technology can reduce the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by as much as 15% in built-up urban environments.

DAY-TO-DAY PLEASURE

DS4’s compact exterior belies a spacious and luxuriously comfortable cabin, which can be easily accessed by the car’s 2+2 door layout. To make it easier to access the rear seats - often seen as a weak point for some sporty models - DS4 features seamlessly integrated rear doors with handles hidden in the door frames.

Thanks to its optimised design, the front doors of DS4 have been made narrower and lighter, making them easier to open and close, promoting easy access at the front.

Another asset in terms of versatility and roominess is DS4’s 370-litre (VDA) boot, which is similar in volume to that of many conventional saloons.

DS4 also has numerous storage compartments for extra travelling comfort, including a large, well lit glove box; door pockets big enough for 1.5-litre bottles; and even a drawer under the front passenger seat. The intelligent architecture of the high-level central console (available on models fitted with EGS) also provides spacious storage areas. The largest of these - which is cooled, illuminated and protected by a sliding cover - can hold up to four 50-cl bottles and houses a connectivity area with an audio-jack, a USB port and a 12-volt socket. The large compartment located under the front armrest also features an additional power source.

CRÉATIVE TECHNOLOGIE ON-BOARD

Beyond its distinctive styling and dynamic performance, DS4’s cabin overflows with ‘Créative Technologie’, providing equipment, functionality and innovative features for first-class travelling comfort and ultimate user convenience. Features available include an advanced audio system with processing software for effective soundscaping, delivering high quality, authentic sound evenly throughout the cabin. For ultimate driving luxury, massaging front seats are available with electric lumbar adjustment in the front passenger’s and driver’s seat backs.

Another example of the tailored DS4 experience, drivers can select their own on-board ambience from four ranges of polyphonic sounds - Classic, Crystal Symphony, Jungle Fantasy & Urban Rythmik - for alerts and reminders; select from three air-conditioning flow levels - soft, average & intense; and choose from an array of colours for the instrument panel - spanning from white to blue.

Drivers can access all key driving and comfort controls - which are clearly visible and even backlit for night-time use - without taking their hands off the wheel.

For complete peace-of-mind, DS4 is also equipped with a range of safety-enhancing technologies:

The Citroën eTouch Assistance System automatically or manually makes emergency or assistance calls, using a built-in SIM card, for rapid intervention in the event of an accident or if the car is immobilised.

Front fog lamps with static cornering lights provide an extra beam that increases visibility when turning

by up to 75° to the left and right of the vehicle. The lights automatically illuminate when the driver indicates or turns the wheel to an angle of more than 60°.

A blind-spot monitoring system - based on the same technology as reversing parking sensors - the four ultrasound sensors alert the driver if a vehicle is in their blind spot ( an area stretching to around 5m behind the rear bumper and 3.5m from each side of the car). The driver is alerted by means of a pictogram displayed in the wing mirrors.

Programmable cruise control with speed limiter also allows drivers to pre-set cruising and top speeds for added safety and convenience on the open road.

FIRST-CLASS SERVICE

When launched, DS4 will be available with first-class customer service. Citroën FreeDrive, first introduced with DS3, is a distinctive package for DS4 owners, providing complete peace-of-mind with an extensive range of services that can be personalised to meet the specific needs of the customer. FreeDrive contracts can be tailored to cover:
scheduled and annual servicing periodic maintenance replacement of wear and tear items Citroën Assistance (Roadside/At Home/Recovery/Onward Travel/European Cover) replacement vehicle during regular servicing, MOT Testing valet cleaning during servicing. FreeDrive also offers optional tyre replacement cover, a ‘Pick-up’ service from the customer’s home or workplace, or a ‘Pick-up & Delivery’ service.

Citroën Racing have released their favourite top ten “big air” images from their time in WRC. Ten excellent photos of the Citroën C4 WRC flying through the air of Italy, New Zealand, Finland, Norway and Sweden have been released by the automaker to build excitement for the upcoming Rally Finland.  Trying to catch the "big air" moments, the ten pix feature driver Sébastien Loeb and others pushing their cars to incredible limits.

"It was an incredible sensation as we were up in the air for several seconds," Loeb said of a massive 85-meter jump in Turkey.  "Not for a moment did we imagine that we would jump so far."




Press Release

CITROËN JUMPS INTO ACTION WITH TOP-TEN ‘BIG AIR' IMAGES

Thrills, spills, and ‘big air' are synonymous with World Rallying.

During April's Rally of Turkey, Citroën's Sébastien Loeb literally took off on the fast Ballica stage propelling his C4 WRC car an incredible 85 metres into the air.

To celebrate over six years at the top of the sport, Citroën has picked ten of its most spectacular gravity defying jumps ahead of next weekend's Rally Finland.

These stunning photos were captured on events including New Zealand, Sweden, Italy, Norway and arguably the spiritual home of ‘big air' moments - Finland.

Commenting on his incredible Turkish jump, Loeb said: "It was an incredible sensation as we were up in the air for several seconds. Not for a moment did we imagine that we would jump so far."

The Citroën Total World Rally Team have been competing in the FIA World Rally Championship since 2001 during which they have won five manufacturers titles and powered Sébastien Loeb to all six of his World Drivers' Championship crowns to make him the most successful rally driver in history.

The Frenchman heads into round eight of the 2010 championship in Finland with a 51 point lead over his closest rival and firmly in the hunt for a record seventh drivers' crown. The Citroën Total World Rally Team also holds a 47 point lead in the Manufacturers' standings.

Mitsubishi's compact Outlander Sport will go the same route as its larger Outlander brethren and head to Europe as rebadged Citroens and Peugeots in early 2012.

PSA Peugeot-Citroen wants to build two compact SUVs based on Mitsubishi’s new ASX compact sport-utility vehicle. The project will represent the fourth industrial collaboration between the two automakers, adding to their existing deals on mid-sized SUVs, electric cars and a joint car factory in Russia.

Power will be provided by a 1.6-liter HDi diesel engine with 110 bhp (82 kW / 112 PS) and 177 lb-ft (240 Nm) of torque. Mated to front-wheel drive, the engine will consume less than 4.7 liters per 100 km (50 mpg US / 60.1 mpg UK) while emitting 123 grams of CO2 per km.

In addition to the Outlander and Outlander Sport, Mitsubishi's i-MiEV city car is being rebadged as the Citroen C-Zero and Peugeot iOn for the European market, starting later this year.






Press Release

Mitsubishi Motors and PSA Peugeot Citroen Begin a New Collaboration on a Compact SUV

Tokyo / Paris, April 27, 2010-Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and PSA Peugeot Citroën have announced today that the parties have come to an agreement to start a new collaborative project regarding a compact SUV.

This agreement provides for the development and adaptation for both the Peugeot and Citroën marques of a compact SUV, based on an existing Mitsubishi platform.

Launched early 2012 in Europe, these new compact SUVs will have specific designs for Peugeot and Citroën while sharing many components with the Mitsubishi vehicle, named RVR in Japan and ASX in Europe.

These vehicles will be available in both four- and two-wheel drive. The projected volume for Peugeot and Citroën will reach 50,000 units per year for both brands.

Under the agreement, PSA Peugeot Citroën will use its 1.6 HDi diesel engine for its own models. CO2 emissions with this engine will be particularly low for this type of vehicle, targeting, for the two-wheel drive version, 123g CO2 / km or less than 4.7 litres per 100km.

For PSA Peugeot Citroën, the new vehicles will expand the ranges of both Peugeot and Citroën and attract new customers in a market segment that is expected to grow worldwide by almost 60% by 2015.

For Mitsubishi Motors, the additional volume will enable it to bolster production of this platform, allowing it to enjoy benefits of economies of scale.

This is the 4th cooperative project between the two partners, after the SUV Mitsubishi Outlander, Peugeot 4007 and Citroën C-Crosser agreement in 2005, the construction of a joint plant in Russia that has just been inaugurated, and the European launch in late 2010 of the Peugeot iOn and Citroën C-zero electric vehicles, based on MMC's Japanese i-MiEV* model.

*Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle, based on the "i" minicar

Citroën has announced last year it intends to present a lot of new vehicles. Most of them will be versions of existing cars, such as the new AirCross, an "adventure" version of the C3 Picasso. The company will first present it in Brazil, possibly in the second semester of 2010, but its first official images have been presented today, through its Twitter. Check them below.

more detail. ...

In an attempt to shake off spy photographers following close behind, the driver of this Citroen DS4 test prototype in northern Sweden got a little too anxious and overshot the entrance to the Bosch winter test facilities. In his haste he attempted to make a dramatic u-turn, but instead lost control of the disguised vehicle, lodging it into a snow bank. The sequence of photos show his attempts to free the vehicle as snow is flung into the air from the front wheels.


The irate test engineer now cornered by the photographers had no choice but to relent. As he wait for rescue, the engineer not only gave photographers a good look at the vehicle, but inadvertently opened the doors giving a glimpse of the interior as well as revealing it's a five door.


As the second model in the DS line, the High Rider concept which is set to make its public debut in Geneva next week previews the DS4 model. No specs were given on the car's powertrain, but it is said to be a "full hybrid" using a HDi engine with diesel particulate filter system (DPFS). The engine is mated to an electric motor at the rear axle, with capabilities of running on all-electric for short distances.




More Photos

So, you find Citroen's C-Crosser SUV being a tad on the dull side? Well, then we're pretty certain that you'll appreciate this custom-made creation that that goes by the name D-Crosser. It combines a modified body of the classic Citroen DS with the chassis and powetrain of one of the most capable 4x4s, the Toyota Land Cruiser.







via:carscoop