Citroen releases more DS3, DS4 and DS5 info

The DS Inside previews the DS3 - a three-door-only plush version of the all-new five-door-only Citroen C3 which will be unveiled next month. According to a Citroen spokesman, the Inside is “between 90 and 95 percent production car” – the finished version of which arrives at Frankfurt in mid-September.

The DS3 is pitched at the Alfa MiTo and, because of its size, the MINI Clubman. But whereas these two offer a sporty drive, the DS3 is a comfort-biased machine. It’ll be similarly priced to the MiTo, and use a selection of powerplants including the 1.6-litre petrol engine as seen in the MINI, albeit detuned. The DS3 will offer more personalisation options than MINI offers too.

Looking further forward, Citroen is likely to show off the DS4 and DS5 at Paris 2010. The DS4 will be based on the PSA platform two, conventionally powered, and inspired by the Citroen C-Sportlounge concept car shown in 2005. The DS4 will fit in a niche that Citroen created with its funky four-seater C4 Picasso Lounge launched in early 2008.

As for the DS5, Citroen has confirmed that the car will be based on the cool Hypnos concept. It’ll be an SUV crossover that takes after the BMW X6 hybrid. But whereas the BMW will be a left-hand-drive only, and won’t be sold in the UK, the DS5 will hit showrooms here in 2011 and will feature the firm’s diesel electric powertrain. A 200hp four-cylinder diesel engine drives the front wheels, while an electric motor drives the rears. Just as with the Ds3 and DS4, the DS5 will get a luxurious, flexible and comfortable interior.

Aside from the DS range, Citroen also announced that it was currently evaluating a production version of the C-Cactus concept. It would offer a cool, eco-conscious entry to Citroen ownership, and could be seen in production form alongside the DS4 and DS5.

The C-Cactus wouldn’t be badged as a DS2 however. Instead, Citroen is likely to use the production version of the Cactus launch an eco sub-brand.