DS 3 loses Citroen badging, gains new high-performance engine

The Citroen DS 3 is the latest model to lose its double-chevron badge, instead joining the new DS brand. Aside from a new grille, the DS 3 gains new technology including MirrorLink and Apple CarPlay connectivity, plus a new Performance trim level with 208PS engine.

In total there are seven engines – five petrol and two diesel. The petrol range kicks off with an 82PS 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol, plus there is a 110PS three-cylinder paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. Emissions range from 105g/km for the hatchback to 112g/km for the cabriolet, with respective economy figures of 61.4mpg and 57.6mpg.

The same engine, but with power cranked up to 130PS, is available with a six-speed manual, with 105g/km emissions and a claimed 62.8mpg. Perhaps the biggest news is the new Performance model, which has a 208PS 1.6-litre petrol engine with peak torque of 300Nm. Transmission is a six-speed manual, plus there is a Torsen limited-slip differential to improve cornering traction.

There are larger brakes, plus lowered suspension and sportier exterior styling, including twin tailpipes, carbon side mouldings and wheel arch extensions. Inside, the Performance model gets bucket seats trimmed in leather and Alcantara.

Diesel engines produce 120PS or 100PS and deliver emissions of below 100g/km, meaning free VED – these are carried over from the existing Citroen DS3, along with a 165PS 1.6-litre THP petrol.

Among the new equipment offered across the DS 3 range is a seven-inch touchscreen system, which includes a reversing camera, MirrorLink smartphone connectivity for Android phones and Apple CarPlay for iPhones. Optionally, buyers can specify a DS Connect Box, which adds SOS assistance, a monitoring pack that warns when servicing is due, a mapping pack with customisable alerts based on car location and tracking, which can be used to recover the vehicle if it’s stolen.

Active City Brake is available and is designed to help avoid or reduce the severity of slow-speed collisions, by automatically braking at speeds up to 18mph, to a complete stop of necessary. As before there’s a wide range of customisation options, including 78 body colour and roof combinations, various interior upholstery and dashboard finishes.