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Citroën's officially debuting its badge-engineered Mitsubishi Outlander clone, the C-Crosser, at Geneva next month. As such, more info and imagery is starting to flow from France. Of the two PSA Peugeot Citroen versions of the Mitsu, we like the appearance of the Citroen a lot more than its Peugeot stablemate. The pronounced chevrons are a lot easier on the eyes than Peugeot's "gaping maw" front-end look.

In terms of features, it's got essentially everything you can get on the Outlander. Also worth noting is that the Citroën offers a backup camera that will display the view behind the SUV on the nav screen -- a practical feature whose omission on the US car is curious, to say the least. We're sure it'll come if there's a demand for it stateside.

The launch engine, co-developed with Ford, is a 2.2L HDi diesel with particulate filter producing 160 horsepower (156HP EEC) and 280 lb-ft of torque. It can handle up to 30% biodiesel, is mated to a six-speed manual tranny, and fuel economy is a respectable 32.2 mpg in the combined cycle. New photos inside and out are available in the gallery below.

[Source: Citroen]

PRESS RELEASE:
CITROËN'S C-CROSSER TO BE UNVEILED AT GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

Citroën's bold, innovative and versatile C-Crosser is to make its World Show debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month. Citroën's first ever SUV will then go on sale in Europe later this summer.

With its strong styling, flexible 5+2 seating configuration, powerful yet environmentally friendly diesel engine (capable of virtually 40mpg on the combined cycle), together with its 4-wheel drive capability, the C-Crosser will complement Citroën's range and offer a vehicle to appeal to drivers with a love of outdoor pursuits.

The C-Crosser's exterior styling radiates vitality and robustness with the front of the vehicle dominated by the familiar Citroën chevrons that stretch across the multiple-ribbed bonnet to unite with the streamlined headlights. The chunky wheel arches, elegant chrome detailing and striking two-tone wheels further emphasise the C-Crosser's muscular design.

Citroën's impressive, new generation 156bhp 2.2HDi engine produces a massive 380Nm of torque at just 2,000rpm. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, the engine has strong green credentials with its low fuel consumption, ultra-clean Diesel Particulate Filter System and ability to run on 30% bio-diesel.

To ensure an optimum blend of comfort, road holding and off-road capability, drivers have a choice of three transmission settings that can be changed depending on road conditions and driving style. Drivers can switch between two-wheel drive, electronically controlled four-wheel drive and a lock setting for low-grip conditions, all of which can be selected using a control mounted on the central console.

Occupants benefit from the versatile second and third row of seats, which feature an easy-to-use modular design allowing seating changes to be made quickly and effortlessly to provide a flat floor and vast load space. The vehicle's generous dimensions offer comfortable passenger space, over 20 storage compartments and a large boot with a useful split-opening tailgate for easy loading.

This tailgate optimises the advantages of the flat boot space so heavy objects can simply slide in. Opening in two sections, the lower part is able to support up to 200kg, allowing it to double up as an al fresco seat, perfect for owners with a love of outdoor pursuits.

To further enhance passenger comfort the C-Crosser offers a selection of optional hi-tech equipment, including a useful reversing camera which assists with manoeuvring and parking in tight spaces. Located above the number plate, the camera is automatically activated once the vehicle is shifted into reverse and the image is displayed on the smart navigation screen.

Citroën's managing director Xavier Duchemin commented; "The C-Crosser will add a new dimension to the already diverse Citroën range and ensures that we have a vehicle to suit all our customer needs, whether it be an SUV, a compact MPV or a supermini."