It seems that the French automaker Citroen plans on launching a convertible version of its DS3 model, following the footsteps of Fiat’s 500C as both cars have a canvas roof that opens, leaving the door frames in place. This is only a spy shot so there hasn’t been a confirmation from Citroen yet, but the photo shows that the carmaker is developing a rival for the popular Mini cabrio.
These superminis were located on a transporter at the moment of the shot and we notice that the protective white tape was covering the canvas roof which is probably opened just about the same as we’ve seen on Fiat’s 500C. In other words, the DS3’s top concertinas back onto the car’s rear deck so the roof bars will remain in place. This is the reason the cars grabbed by the camera in this photo have been left with the B-pillars and the bootlid’s leading edge discovered since these will not be changed. As a consequence, the hatchback’s glass will remain the same, except for the rear windscreen.
There aren’t any official details about the engine lineup which will power the upcoming model, but judging by the alloy wheels and the twin exhaust system, the ones in the photo are most likely the DS3 Sport version that is motivated by a 4-cylinder turbocharged engine which pumps out 148 hp. Most likely, Citroen plans on launching lower-powered versions of the DS3 Convertible, as well as a diesel-powered model. Also in the works is probably the DStyle version that will get a 1.6-liter diesel with 108 hp.
We should expect to see an official unveiled of the Citroen DS3 Convertible this September at the Paris Motor Show in France, while the car should arrive in the showrooms sometime next year. As far as the price tag is concerned, most likely the convertible version of the DS3 will be about 2,000 pounds more expensive than its hatchback counterpart so expect to see a price for the DStyle version of approximately 17,000 pounds.
Source: Auto Express
