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The Citroen DS3 will make it's world debut at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September 2009, combining luxury, style and exclusivity in a smaller package that meets today demands for fuel efficient, low emission cars without loosing the delights that make motoring such a pleasure.
The Citroen DS3 - standing for Different Spirit - is one of a growing breed of tiny luxury cars designed to take advantage of tax breaks for fuel efficient vehicles in Europe.
The funky three-door marks the launch of an all-new luxury sub-brand for the French manufacturer, which is keen to capitalise on the changing buying patterns of luxury car buyers.
Setting the DS3 apart from the rest of the Citroen range is it's own, individual sense of style, including a 'floating' roof, a 'shark fin' that lends vigour to the waistline and recesses on the nose housing LED Lights.
As with the Mini, the DS3's rival, buyers will be able to choose from a wide array of different exterior and interior styling themes. The roof is available in four colours: Black, white, blue and red. Buyers can also specify the colour of their side mirrors, wheels and dashboard inserts.
But unlike the Mini, the DS3 will have five seats and a decent-sized boot.
Citroen Australia says the DS3 is aimed at luxury car buyers who are downsizing because they don't want to pay the increasingly stiff taxes levied on larger cars in Europe.
Come cities in Europe have banned large cars from their central business districts, while others levy taxes as high as $8000 for a large car. The definition of a "large" car is also very different, with Toyota Corolla-sized vehicles classed as large cars for taxation purposes.
People want to downsize from a larger luxury car but they dont want to lose individual style, exclusivity, performance and features. They dont just want a mass market car they want exclusivity. That's why Citroen has created a whole new brand.
The DS3 is due to arrive in Australia in mid to late 2010 priced competitivley to compete wth the BMW's Mini, Alfa Romeo's MiTo and Audi's upcoming A1 luxury mini.
Australia is likely to get a choice of two engines, a 1.6 litre diesel putting out 82 kW and a 1.6 litre turbo petrol engine producing 110 kW. Manual and Auto transmissions will be available.
For more information on the DS3 please contact Ralf Behrens on 02 6162 0987 or ralfb@gulson.com.au
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