Perhaps the most interesting car shown at this year’s edition of the Beijing Motor Show was the super Numero 9 concept from Citroen. This represents the first vehicle in a new wave of upcoming DS models. The styling of the car previews three new DS models that Citroen is going to launch in the future; a premium sedan that will have the size of a Volkswagen Jetta; a BMW 5-Series-sized executive sedan and also an SUV.
With the occasion of the Beijing Motor Show, Citroen has introduced in China its current DS3, DS4 and DS5 models. Up until now, in its most important markets, the French automaker has managed to sell 200,000 DS vehicles, and they this year they plan on introducing these cars to emerging markets as well, countries like China, Brazil and Russia.
According to various reports, at least two of the three new DS models which will be launched in the future are going to be sold in Europe. The Numero 9 concept in these pictures is 4930 mm long, 1270 mm high, and 1940 mm wide, while its wheelbase measures 3000 mm. This means that it is bigger than the 5-Series but smaller than the 7-Series. The car rides on 21-inch aerodynamic alloys which can aid channel the air around the wheel arches.
The concept was designed in Paris and has a curb weight of 1,500 kg. It boasts several features that we haven’t seen up until now on a DS model, like the full LED headlights, a 3D-effect front grille, along with that distinctive strip on the LED DLRs. These features, along with the glazed side surfaces, the floating roof effect and the chrome trim will be seen in upcoming DS models.
The Citroen Numero 9 concept is motivated by an all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid system consisting of an electric motor with 69 hp and 148 lb.-ft which powers the rear wheels, along with a 1.6-liter THP gasoline engine that produces 221 hp and 203 lb.-ft which drives the front wheels. The concept is able to do the 0-62 mph sprint in just 5.4 seconds and has CO2 emissions of just 39 g/km, while fuel economy is rated at 166 mpg UK.
Source: Citroen via Autocar
