Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Citroën Wild Rubis helps the DS cross over]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/citroen-wild-rubis-shanghai-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/citroen-wild-rubis-shanghai-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/citroen-wild-rubis-shanghai-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Citroën Wild Rubis concept - live at 2013 Shanghai Motor Show

What we have here is an urban crossover from Citroën that is the newest member of its well-received DS lineup, and we're told it will soon lead to a production machine with similar styling and intent. We'd love to tell you more, but the quirky French manufacturer hasn't actually revealed many details about the machine.

We do know that the Wild Rubis boasts a full plug-in hybrid drivetrain, but we have no idea what that all includes, what kind of power it produces or, well... anything else, really. Come to think of it, we don't even know if it can move under its own power. It's painted a wild ruby color, hence its name, and we think it's pretty.

If you're hankering for more detail than that, we're afraid you'll have to fly out to Shanghai and corral a few French executives for yourself. Or you could just sit back and stare at our high-res image gallery, live from the show floor, and read through the brief and uninformative press release below. It's up to you, but choose wisely. Oh, did we mention that it's pretty?

Continue reading Citroën Wild Rubis helps the DS cross over

Citroën Wild Rubis helps the DS cross over originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 shanghai motor showcitroencitroen wild rubisshanghaishanghai motor showwild rubis conceptSat, 20 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546135/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/20/citroen-wild-rubis-shanghai-2013/20546135/article-detail.xml 20546135 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/628-citroen-wild-rubis-shanghai_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/628-citroen-wild-rubis-shanghai.jpg <![CDATA[Citroën bringing Wild Rubis concept to Shanghai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/citroen-bringing-wild-rubis-concept-to-shanghai/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/citroen-bringing-wild-rubis-concept-to-shanghai/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/citroen-bringing-wild-rubis-concept-to-shanghai/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Citroën announced that it will be bringing the "latest expression" of its DS lineup to the Shanghai Motor Show next week, with this aubergine-hued concept called Wild Rubis. For the record, "Rubis" is French for "Ruby" and alludes to that purple/red paint, as far as we can make out.

The French automaker tells us that the Wild Rubis foreshadows an upcoming DS SUV. The concept is going to be "full-hybrid, plug-in technology," beyond that, however, details are quite sparse. We expect that we'll receive a lot more in the way of detail about the Wild Rubis when Citroën rolls it out on the stage in China.

What the press release lacks in detail, however, Citroën has certainly made up for in imagery. It seems that before shipping the concept to Shanghai, the Wild Rubis was photographed extensively at the Cheval Blanc wine-growing estate in the Saint-Emilion area of France. The result is a massive image gallery for you to explore and enjoy.

Continue reading Citroën bringing Wild Rubis concept to Shanghai

Citroën bringing Wild Rubis concept to Shanghai originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroencitroen dscitroen wild rubis conceptshanghai motor showThu, 11 Apr 2013 19:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20537674/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/11/citroen-bringing-wild-rubis-concept-to-shanghai/20537674/article-detail.xml 20537674 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/citroen-wild-rubis-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/citroen-wild-rubis-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Citroën C4 Picasso arrives lighter, roomier and Euro 6-approved [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/citroen-c4-picasso-arrives-lighter-roomier-and-euro-6-approved/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/citroen-c4-picasso-arrives-lighter-roomier-and-euro-6-approved/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/citroen-c4-picasso-arrives-lighter-roomier-and-euro-6-approved/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2014 Citroen C4 Picasso - front three-quarter view

The 2013 Citroën C4 Picasso brings some unexpected company to the new 2014 Jeep Cherokee and its novel headlight arrangement. And since two such designs are rarely an accident in vehicle design, we'll say this could be a trend. More traditionally, the C4 Picasso brings smaller dimensions outside, more space inside, lighter weight and more technology to Europe's small people-mover game.

Built on PSA-Peugeot/Citroën's Efficient Modular Platform 2, it's lost 140 kilograms (308 pounds) so it weighs as much - or as little - as the Citroën C3 Picasso and its new design has an air drag index that's better than the Audi R8 and Ford GT. The wheelbase is stretched, the front overhang is reduced by 70 millimeters, and the lower position of the engine and floor drop the center of gravity and the wider track makes for a more aggressive stance and delivers better handling.

Inside, the do-it-all center stack is topped by a 12-inch high-definition screen augmented by a seven-inch touchscreen. The dividers in the two-tone instrument panel are black on the driver's side and Champagne or Ardoise on the passenger side. The info display on the larger screen is reconfigurable, while the smaller, seven-inch screen controls functions like the air conditioning, navigation and Multicity Connect apps. The first row of seats is patterned to look like a one-piece bench, the second row can move fore and aft, standard trunk space is a around 19 cubic feet and the tailgate made of composites opens and closes electronically. Airiness is ensured by the panoramic windscreen and glass roof.

Among its engines are the brand's first BlueHDi diesel engines to meet Euro 6 standards. They can be paired with a six-speed manual, a six-speed clutchless gearbox and, coming in early 2014, a six-speed automatic. Safety and convenience comes with surround cameras in a package called 360 Vision*, Park Assist, adaptive cruise control, active seatbelts, automatic high beam, blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning systems.

It will go on sale in France in June of this year. For more on this funky four-wheeled Technospace, check out the press release and video below for more details.

Continue reading Citroën C4 Picasso arrives lighter, roomier and Euro 6-approved [w/video]

Citroën C4 Picasso arrives lighter, roomier and Euro 6-approved [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 citroen c4 picassocitroën c4 picassocitroencitroen c4citroen c4 picassompvtechnospacevideoFri, 05 Apr 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20527269/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/05/citroen-c4-picasso-arrives-lighter-roomier-and-euro-6-approved/20527269/article-detail.xml 20527269 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-citroen-c4-picasso-04-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-citroen-c4-picasso-04-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Peugeot returning to Pikes Peak with Sébastien Loeb [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/peugeot-returning-to-pikes-peak-with-sebastien-loeb-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/peugeot-returning-to-pikes-peak-with-sebastien-loeb-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/02/peugeot-returning-to-pikes-peak-with-sebastien-loeb-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Peugeot returning to Pikes Peak - video graphic

In spite of troubles in other areas - and there are plenty of them - sales of the Peugeot 208 are a bright spot for the French carmaker. Attempting to grab that light and make sure it shines everywhere, the company is returning the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on June 30 with a specially prepared 208 driven by nine-time World Rally Champion Sébastien Loeb.

Citroën has loaned Loeb to its PSA/Peugeot-Citroën sister company so that he could contest his first Pikes Peak - it only makes sense that he's looking to try new pastures after winning all of those World Rally Championship titles with Citroën. The 208, which will have the start number '208,' will be revealed in April. Peugeot has won the race twice, once with Ari Vatanen in a 206 205 T16 in 1988 and again the next year with Robby Unser in a 405 T16.

To get you ready, there's a press release and a short film below called Climb Dance which follows Vatanen's drive. We highly recommend a watch - better vintage car porn is hard to find.

Continue reading Peugeot returning to Pikes Peak with Sébastien Loeb [w/video]

Peugeot returning to Pikes Peak with Sébastien Loeb [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>208ari vatanencitroëncitroenclimb dancepeugeotpeugeot 208pikes peakpikes peak international hill climbsebastien loebvideoTue, 02 Apr 2013 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20523791/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/02/peugeot-returning-to-pikes-peak-with-sebastien-loeb-w-video/20523791/article-detail.xml 20523791 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/peugeotpikespeak2013_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/peugeotpikespeak2013.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Model S pitted against... Citroën DS-19?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/tesla-model-s-pitted-against-citroen-ds-19/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/tesla-model-s-pitted-against-citroen-ds-19/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/tesla-model-s-pitted-against-citroen-ds-19/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Citroen DS vs Tesla - Motor Trend Head 2 Head series screencap with Jonny Lieberman

Motor Trend has taken it upon itself to pit the lauded 2013 Tesla Model S against the venerable 1956 Citroën DS-19 in the magazine's latest Head 2 Head video. In what realm do these two machines cross tracks? Host Jonny Lieberman makes a strong case for the fact that both cars represent the pinnacle of automotive innovation from their respective eras, but we're guessing he was really just looking for an excuse to spend a few days whirring around in a DS. Lieberman is an unabashed fan of all things Citroën, and the DS understandably sits at the top of that list.

Still, he would appear to give both cars a fair shake, lauding the Model S for its many innovations over its automotive peers while criticizing the DS for its lackluster powerplant. In the end, the victor of this particular Head 2 Head is no surprise. You can check it out in the video below for yourself.

Continue reading Tesla Model S pitted against... Citroën DS-19?

Tesla Model S pitted against... Citroën DS-19? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 tesla model scitroëncitroën dscitroën ds-19citroenjonny liebermanmotor trendtesla model svideoFri, 29 Mar 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20523134/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/29/tesla-model-s-pitted-against-citroen-ds-19/20523134/article-detail.xml 20523134 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-vs-tesla-motor-trend-video-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-vs-tesla-motor-trend-video-628.jpg <![CDATA[Robert Kubica would give it all back to be in F1 again]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/robert-kubica-would-give-it-all-back-to-be-in-f1-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/robert-kubica-would-give-it-all-back-to-be-in-f1-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/robert-kubica-would-give-it-all-back-to-be-in-f1-again/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Robert Kubica hasn't been in a Formula One grand prix race since a rally crash left him injured in early 2011, but that doesn't mean the driver has stopped thinking about F1. According to Autosport.com, Kubica is headed back to WRC2, but remains focused on getting back into an F1 driver's seat. While he had received offers to race in DTM, he chose to stick with rallying because the demanding physical challenges should provide better preparation for a return to open-wheel racing.

"I would pay all the money I have to be back in the cockpit of a Formula One car," he said while speaking to reporters.

Kubica believes that physically, he may be able to compete on a course like Barcelona, but the more challenging Monaco Grand Prix would be beyond his reach. Kubica is expected to work with Citroën in the testing phase of the company's World Touring Car Championship program in 2014 as well.

Robert Kubica would give it all back to be in F1 again originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 18:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroenf1formula 1formula onekubicarobert kubicaworld rally championshipwrcTue, 19 Mar 2013 18:36:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20509948/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/19/robert-kubica-would-give-it-all-back-to-be-in-f1-again/20509948/article-detail.xml 20509948 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/robert-kubica-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/robert-kubica-628.jpg <![CDATA[Citroën helped speed up the Pope selection process a bit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/citroen-helped-speed-up-the-pope-selection-process-a-bit/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/citroen-helped-speed-up-the-pope-selection-process-a-bit/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/citroen-helped-speed-up-the-pope-selection-process-a-bit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Citroen Ad

Citroën took advantage of this week's election of a new Pope to promote its clean diesel initiatives. The advertisement in the video below shows one determined Citroën engineer as he climbs atop the Vatican to take care of a pesky black smoke problem. After he works his magic, the famous chimney starts puffing out white smoke instead. We would think a clean diesel would yield no smoke at all, but hey, that's just us. We will say the opportunistic commercial is at least good for a chuckle. You can check it out in the ad below.

The French automaker unveiled a number of vehicles at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this month, including the updated 2013 C3 shown below. The five door can be had with a spate of engine options, including at least four clean diesel options with power ranging from 70 to 115 ponies.

Continue reading Citroën helped speed up the Pope selection process a bit

Citroën helped speed up the Pope selection process a bit originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 citroen c3adadvertisingc3citroëncitroencitroen commercialcommercialpopepope selectionvideoThu, 14 Mar 2013 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20502243/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/14/citroen-helped-speed-up-the-pope-selection-process-a-bit/20502243/article-detail.xml 20502243 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-ad-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-ad-628.jpg <![CDATA[This is Citroën's amazing diorama tribute to celebrate its WRC winnings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/this-is-citroens-amazing-diorama-tribute-to-celebrate-its-wrc-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/this-is-citroens-amazing-diorama-tribute-to-celebrate-its-wrc-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/this-is-citroens-amazing-diorama-tribute-to-celebrate-its-wrc-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Citroen DS3 Diorama

Citroen has taken a unique stab at commemorating Sebastien Loeb and Daniel Elena's nine World Rally Championship wins. Rather than work up yet another tired video of the champions expounding on the virtues, trials and and tribulations that come with being the very best for nearly a decade straight, the company whipped up a diorama atop Citroen DS3. The scale model covers nine separate rally terrains, including bits from Rally Finland and the Acropolis Rally. Each one of the nine sections features a 1:43 scale version of the duo's rally car from each year of victorious competition.

The model took Kieron Barter of Funky Lemon Design and his team some two months to complete. Initially displayed at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, the diorama is set to start a tour of various dealers beginning today. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading This is Citroën's amazing diorama tribute to celebrate its WRC winnings

This is Citroën's amazing diorama tribute to celebrate its WRC winnings originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroencitroen ds3citroen ds3 dioramadioramads3modelsebastien loebtoysworld rally championshipwrcFri, 08 Mar 2013 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20484491/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/08/this-is-citroens-amazing-diorama-tribute-to-celebrate-its-wrc-w/20484491/article-detail.xml 20484491 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-ds3-diorama-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-ds3-diorama-628.jpg <![CDATA[Citroën C3 is updated for hatchback battling in 2013 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/2013-citroen-c3-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/2013-citroen-c3-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/2013-citroen-c3-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Citroën C3

As promised, Citroën has brought along its new C3 to Geneva this year, with high hopes that the hatchback will be a strong competitor versus the hegemony of Golf in the European compact market. (And a worsening market, at that.)

The C3's gigantic windshield is still in place for the 2013 model year, though revisions to the grille, LED running lamps, taillights and front/rear fascias can be seen. Engine choices now include two three-cylinder gasoline engines, in 68- and 82-horsepower flavors, as well as a 120-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder. A very Gallic selection of four diesel motors is also on tap, with outputs ranging from 70 to 115 horsepower. UK buyers will see the new C3 in dealerships starting this summer.

Citroën's full press release for the updated C3 can be found below, and our live images from Geneva are in the attached gallery. You'll also find the official C3 debut video, just below.

Continue reading Citroën C3 is updated for hatchback battling in 2013 [w/video]

Citroën C3 is updated for hatchback battling in 2013 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 citroen c3c3citroengenevageneva 2013geneva motor showThu, 07 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20489603/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/07/2013-citroen-c3-geneva-2013/20489603/article-detail.xml 20489603 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-c3-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-c3-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Citroën Technospace Concept has fewer glowsticks than we would have thought]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/citroen-technospace-concept-has-fewer-glowsticks-than-we-would-h/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/citroen-technospace-concept-has-fewer-glowsticks-than-we-would-h/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/citroen-technospace-concept-has-fewer-glowsticks-than-we-would-h/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Citroën Technospace Concept

If you want to know where the design of the Citroen C4 Picaso is headed, look no further than the Technospace Concept. Citroen displayed the people mover at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, saying it represents a forthcoming shift in the company's MPV strategy. The next-generation C4 Picaso promises buyers substantially lower emissions with a compact design that offers more space indoors. That's thanks in part to the use of the company's new Efficient Modular Platform, which should allow the five-door to yield up to 19 cubic feet of cargo volume.

While no details are available on the production C4 Picaso interior, the Technospace Concept offers up touch-sensitive controls indoors with a massive 12-inch high-definition screen mounted in the upper dash. It also offers a "Relax" seat for the front passenger. No, we don't know what that means any more than you do. Hit the press release below for more details.

Continue reading Citroën Technospace Concept has fewer glowsticks than we would have thought

Citroën Technospace Concept has fewer glowsticks than we would have thought originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c4 picasocitroencitroen c4 picasocitroen technospace conceptconceptgenevageneva 2013geneva motor showtechnospacetechnospace conceptWed, 06 Mar 2013 20:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20490667/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/06/citroen-technospace-concept-has-fewer-glowsticks-than-we-would-h/20490667/article-detail.xml 20490667 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-technospace-concept-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-technospace-concept-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Citroën DS3 Cabrio puts its canvas back]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2013-citroen-ds3-cabrio-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2013-citroen-ds3-cabrio-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2013-citroen-ds3-cabrio-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Citroën DS3 Cabrio

The Citroen DS3 Cabrio bowed at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The drophead version of the French hatch retains its five-seat configuration and offers one of the largest cargo areas of any cars in the segment. The convertible uses a folding top akin to that of the diminutive Fiat 500C, wherein the roof rails remain in place while the canvas peels back in neat folds. As a result, the car looks just like its hardtop sibling with top up, and Citroen says buyers will be able to open the roof at speeds of up to 75 miles per hour.

The DS3 Cabrio will be available with three engine options, including an 82-horsepower, 1.2-liter three-cylinder, a 120-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder and a 155-horsepower 1.6-liter four pot. Customers in the UK can expect to shell out 15,045 pounds for the base engine, though prices stretch all the way to 19,675 pounds for the 155-horse variant with no options.

Continue reading 2013 Citroën DS3 Cabrio puts its canvas back

2013 Citroën DS3 Cabrio puts its canvas back originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroencitroen ds3citroen ds3 cabriods3ds3 cabriogenevageneva 2013geneva motor showWed, 06 Mar 2013 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20489605/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/06/2013-citroen-ds3-cabrio-geneva-2013/20489605/article-detail.xml 20489605 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-ds3-cabrio-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/citroen-ds3-cabrio-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Citroën prepping updated C3 for Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/citroen-prepping-updated-c3-for-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/citroen-prepping-updated-c3-for-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/citroen-prepping-updated-c3-for-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Citroën C3 gets a facelift and a premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next month. Visually, the little hatch with the mammoth "Zenith" windscreen has been reworked with a grille sporting less chrome, LED running lights and sleeker chevron logos. At the rear are new taillight clusters, reflectors under the rear bumpers and the option of a reversing camera. Ink Blue gets added to the exterior color palette.

The cabin gets three colors of optional dashboard strips to match the new upholstery, an optional integrated air freshener and white backlighting in the dash cluster.

Engines choices get an overhaul, too, a pair of three-cylinder PureTech gasoline engines providing more power for less fuel consumption. The 1.0-liter VTi produces 68 horsepower, the 1.2-liter VTi outputs 82 hp and a four-cylinder, 1.6-liter VTi makes 120 hp. Four diesels remain on the menu, the HDi 70 and HDi 90 alongside the diesel hybrid e-HDi 70 and e-HDi 115.

The new Citroën C3 will go on sale this summer in the UK. There's a press release below with more information to get you geared up.

Continue reading Citroën prepping updated C3 for Geneva

Citroën prepping updated C3 for Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c3citroengenevageneva 2013geneva motor showMon, 25 Feb 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20474223/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/25/citroen-prepping-updated-c3-for-geneva/20474223/article-detail.xml 20474223 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/citroenc3geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/citroenc3geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Citroën DS3 tears the roof off]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/09/citroen-ds3-tears-the-roof-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/09/citroen-ds3-tears-the-roof-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/09/citroen-ds3-tears-the-roof-off/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Citroën DS3 Cabrio we first saw at the 2012 Paris Motor Show has launched in the UK, putting more Gallic-tinged, canvas-roofed convertible goodness on the automotive menu. Competing directly against cars like the Mini Cooper Convertible and Fiat 500C, Citroën believes it's got a winner because on top of the DS3's already popular chops the Cabrio maintains the five-seater space and the largest cargo area in the segment.

You can open and close the roof at up to 75 miles per hour - the Citroën release doesn't say whether that means all the way or to the intermediate, horizontal position. Buyers get seven exterior colors to select from, a roof in either black, Infinite Blue or Moondust Grey DS Monogramme, six interior decor styles, and nine wheel options.

There are three trims, the DSign with the 82-horsepower VTi engine is the backstop of the line at 15,045 pounds ($23,747 US) on-the-road, the DStyle with the 120-hp VTi for 17,425 pounds ($27,507 US) and the DSport with its 155-hp THP motor for 19,675 pounds ($31,201 US). The press release below will be happy to tell you more.

Continue reading Citroën DS3 tears the roof off

Citroën DS3 tears the roof off originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 09 Feb 2013 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroends3ds3 cabrioSat, 09 Feb 2013 11:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20453767/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/09/citroen-ds3-tears-the-roof-off/20453767/article-detail.xml 20453767 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/citroends3convertible_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/citroends3convertible.jpg <![CDATA[GM, PSA scrap large car program, move forward with small engine development]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/22/gm-psa-scrap-large-car-program-move-forward-with-small-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/22/gm-psa-scrap-large-car-program-move-forward-with-small-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/22/gm-psa-scrap-large-car-program-move-forward-with-small-engine/#commentsFiled under: ,

GM Peugeot

The partnership between General Motors and PSA Peugeot-Citroën isn't expected to produce any results until 2016, but it has created plenty of news (and speculation) since it was formed back in February. Now, GM is laying out some of the specifics of the deal while Automotive News Europe is reporting plans have been scrapped to produce a shared platform for a midsize sedan.

In "definitive agreements" between the two automakers, GM says that three new vehicle platforms are still on track; one of these will bring a new compact minivan to GM's Opel and Vauxhall brands and a compact crossover to Peugeot, and the other platform will be for B-segment minivans for both entities to share. ANE says that the proposed shared platform for the Opel Insignia and Citroën was canceled due to the lack of a sound business case.

In addition to cars, the joint venture will also be an opportunity for both automakers to develop "high-performance, efficient" gasoline engines and to create joint purchasing to allow both companies to potentially save money (this aspect of the agreement is still pending legal clearance from anti-trust approvals).

GM's official statement is posted after the jump.

Continue reading GM, PSA scrap large car program, move forward with small engine development

GM, PSA scrap large car program, move forward with small engine development originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 Dec 2012 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroengeneral motorsgm peugeotgm psagm psa peugeot citroenjoint ventureopel peugeotvauxhall peugeotSat, 22 Dec 2012 15:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20408466/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/22/gm-psa-scrap-large-car-program-move-forward-with-small-engine/20408466/article-detail.xml 20408466 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/gmpugworse_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/gmpugworse.jpg <![CDATA[UK auto magazine says this is the best car commercial of all time [w/videos]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/20/uk-auto-magazine-says-this-is-the-best-car-commercial-of-all-tim/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/20/uk-auto-magazine-says-this-is-the-best-car-commercial-of-all-tim/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/20/uk-auto-magazine-says-this-is-the-best-car-commercial-of-all-tim/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Honda Accord

There have been many great car commercials over the years, but is it possible to define the best? Well, Ad Week recently took a crack at it by rating the top commercials of the year by looking at their view counts on YouTube, but Auto Express took a more democratic approach by putting the decision to a vote. Just after Thanksgiving, Auto Express came up with a list of the 20 popular commercials, and it tasked its readers with choosing the winner for the best car ad of all time. The winner? Honda's 2003 commercial for its then-new European Accord titled "The Cog."

While the ad never aired in the US, most car people have surely seen the impressive Rube Goldberg-style spot. In fact, the only commercial on this list that we saw on US television was the Volkswagen ad "The Force," but many of the others have become viral videos, including transforming and dancing Citroën C4. Of the 19 other commercials that vied for the title of best ad of all time, only the Ford Puma "Steve McQueen" commercial gave Honda a run for its advertising money.

Scroll down to watch Auto Express' top five commercial in order and to check out a press release, then let us know some of your favorite car commercials in Comments.

Continue reading UK auto magazine says this is the best car commercial of all time [w/videos]

UK auto magazine says this is the best car commercial of all time [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Dec 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingbest commercialscar commercialcar commercialscitroëncitroencommercialsfordhondahonda cogpeugeotsteve mcqueenvideovolkswagenThu, 20 Dec 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20406655/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/20/uk-auto-magazine-says-this-is-the-best-car-commercial-of-all-tim/20406655/article-detail.xml 20406655 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/honda-cog-commercial_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/honda-cog-commercial.jpg <![CDATA[End of the road for French flagship sedans as Citroën C6 production winding down]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/end-of-the-road-for-french-flagship-sedans-as-citroen-c6-product/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/end-of-the-road-for-french-flagship-sedans-as-citroen-c6-product/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/end-of-the-road-for-french-flagship-sedans-as-citroen-c6-product/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Citroën C6 - front three-quarter view

Even if their avant-garde styling has historically meant that they would never enjoy the sales success of their more staid German counterparts, it was always somehow comforting to know that the French were building large sedans. With a history of nontraditional looks and peerless ride quality (a legacy built on the hydropneumatic suspension of the original Citroën DS), big French cars have always been an acquired taste.

And now it appears buyers with that specific palette won't have a clear place to go, at least for a while. According to Automotive News, production of the Citroën C6 shown above (click to enlarge) is scheduled to cease this month, leaving French buyers (and Francophiles) without a true-bleu option. As the article points out, Renault will still offer its Latitude - effectively a badge-engineered rework of the Korean-built Samsung SM5 - but patriotic consumers have apparently been staying away because it isn't French enough (Renault has sold under 3,800 examples this year).

Renault may yet provide an answer for its displaced countrymen in the form of a new Initiale Paris-branded flagship offering that would be developed on Mercedes-Benz E-Class britches, but it has not yet decided whether it will move forward with the car. The alternative, to follow Citroën and Peugeot in leaving the segment, is probably looking quite appealing now, especially with Europe's continued economic malaise.

Citroën, for its part, is still experimenting with large cars, as evidenced by its stunning Numero Nine concept revealed at this year's Beijing Motor Show. Whether the marque that kicked off the genre with "The Goddess" plans to revisit the large sedan remains to be seen, but it could be a good strategy if it wants to increase its presence in large-sedan-happy China.

End of the road for French flagship sedans as Citroën C6 production winding down originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 citroën c6c6citroëncitroenfrench carsfrench sedanpeugeotrenaultFri, 14 Dec 2012 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20401040/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/14/end-of-the-road-for-french-flagship-sedans-as-citroen-c6-product/20401040/article-detail.xml 20401040 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2012-citroen-c6-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2012-citroen-c6-628.jpg <![CDATA[PSA and Renault both hit by autoworker strikes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/01/psa-and-renault-both-hit-by-autoworker-strikes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/01/psa-and-renault-both-hit-by-autoworker-strikes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/01/psa-and-renault-both-hit-by-autoworker-strikes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Peugeot-Citroën (PSA) and Renault were both the targets of autoworker strikes on Thursday, the result of ongoing tensions between labor and management in the wake of planned facility closings in 2014.

3,000 French jobs stand to be lost in less than two years when the PSA's Aulnay plant executes a planned closure of a production line. The line in question currently builds Citroën's C3 subcompact model.

Negotiations are reportedly still underway, with PSA pledging to offer jobs elsewhere to about half of the Aulnay workers that stand to be laid off.

Meanwhile, blood-rival Renualt has faced two work stoppages as well. Workers of at that company walked out in protest of cost-cutting measures that would seek to bring French production costs inline with those of similar operations in Spain. Tough times all around for France's two primary automakers.

PSA and Renault both hit by autoworker strikes originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 01 Dec 2012 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroëncitroenpeugeotpsarenaultstrikework stoppageSat, 01 Dec 2012 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20391746/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/01/psa-and-renault-both-hit-by-autoworker-strikes/20391746/article-detail.xml 20391746 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/peugeot-citroen-renault-strikes-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/peugeot-citroen-renault-strikes-628.jpg <![CDATA[GM, Peugeot cease tie-up talks over French bailout issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/gm-peugeot-cease-tie-up-talks-over-french-bailout-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/gm-peugeot-cease-tie-up-talks-over-french-bailout-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/gm-peugeot-cease-tie-up-talks-over-french-bailout-issue/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



The partnership General Motors (via Opel) and PSA Peugeot/Citroën began in February has produced more declarations and revisions than easily identifiable positive movement. A deeper collaboration between Opel and Peugeot has been mentioned a few times, perhaps even a sale of one to the other, and a report in October laid out joint plans like a small MPV for Opel/Vauxhall, a small car for both Opel and Citroën and two new platforms for small and midsize cars.

What observers can't glean from the proclamations is how all this can happen with Peugeot in constant, and worsening, financial trouble. The French company just accepted a bailout from the French government, the cash position at its lending arm so bad that the interest rates it had to charge were pricing it out of the car-loan market, and a new report in Reuters says that Peugeot is losing $200 million per month.

That cash-burn rate is better than a few months ago, but the Reuters report explains that the French government loan is "sabotaging" any chance of a closer tie-up between the two companies, said to include the possibility of "a full combination of Peugeot with GM's European unit Opel." That particular option, with a $5-billion buy-in from GM, could have allowed GM to get Opel off its books by making it part of a separate entity. The French government's terms for the loan, however, mean that Peugeot can't shed workers and factories as it would need to in order to make the new entity, and any deeper ties with Opel, viable.

Beyond that, the plan to jointly develop a small car for Peugeot in Brazil has been shelved, Peugeot has left Iran, it's second largest global market, and has given up ties on other technology projects with Ford and BMW. GM has no interest in other Peugeot initiatives like a push into India and rechargeable hybrids. It's said that more cooperation between the two will have to wait for a turnaround in the European market, expected in 2014.

GM, Peugeot cease tie-up talks over French bailout issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroenfrancegmgm peugeotopelpeugeotpsa peugeot citroenvauxhallWed, 14 Nov 2012 10:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20378903/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/14/gm-peugeot-cease-tie-up-talks-over-french-bailout-issue/20378903/article-detail.xml 20378903 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/gmpugworse_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/gmpugworse.jpg <![CDATA[Ford, Renault, VW shareholder oppose French aid for PSA/Peugeot-Citroën]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/ford-renault-vw-shareholder-oppose-french-aid-for-psa-peugeot/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/ford-renault-vw-shareholder-oppose-french-aid-for-psa-peugeot/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/ford-renault-vw-shareholder-oppose-french-aid-for-psa-peugeot/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Peugeot lion emblem on sheetmetal

Pots and kettles, glass houses and stones - that's a little of what we appear to have going on in the European car market. New reports say that that three European automakers have registered their opposition to a loan deal that PSA/Peugeot-Citroën is working on with the French government. Peugeot's finance arm, Banque PSA Finance, is struggling with its debts and has been downgraded by Moody's to its lowest investment-grade classification, one step above junk. This makes it more expensive for a potential buyer to finance a car through Peugeot. The last thing Peugeot needs is more difficulty selling cars in the tough European market, and the situation will only worsen if the bank's credit worthiness takes another hit.

A deal being worked on would have the French government offer €7 billion ($9B U.S.) in bonds to guarantee the bank's loans, which would give the institution some breathing room to manage its debts and lower its interest rates. Outside of that, a group of banks would provide other, non-guaranteed loans to the bank to further help its position. In exchange for state help, though, the government wants seats on Peugeot's board for worker representatives and a government liaison, along with factory and worker guarantees. The Peugeot family would maintain control of the company.

So what we have is government assistance being provided to a car company's finance arm, akin to the way General Motors' GMAC (now Ally Financial) and Chrysler Financial got help in their time of need. What we also have is Ford and Renault, and Germany's State of Lower Saxony, the second-largest shareholder in Volkswagen, voicing their concern about the proposal, because they say it could create an unfair competitive advantage for Peugeot. Everyone in Europe's down market is fighting for every sale, and if Peugeot gets help to keep its auto loan costs down, it figures to help buyers choose Peugeot or Citroën.

Still, after four years of corporations openly begging for funds from governments, it seems disingenuous for Ford of Europe's CEO Stephen Odell to say "I don't think it's sustainable for support from governments to keep competitive companies going forward, particularly in a protracted downsized economy." Industry watchers will remember that during the US auto industry crisis, Ford didn't receive federal TARP funds, but it did receive low-interest technology loans from the US government and it endorsed TARP support for GM and Chrysler.

For its part, Renault says it is keeping an eye on the situation, and a rep from Lower Saxony said he might refer the issue to the European Union for review. In reply, a Peugeot executive said "It's not state aid, it's state support," which is the kind of slicing-things-thin that's perhaps better used for carpaccio than for dealing with the European car market situation.

Ford, Renault, VW shareholder oppose French aid for PSA/Peugeot-Citroën originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banque psa financecar salescitroëncitroeneueuropean car salesfordfrancelower saxonypsapsa peugeot citroenrenaultMon, 29 Oct 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20363061/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/29/ford-renault-vw-shareholder-oppose-french-aid-for-psa-peugeot/20363061/article-detail.xml 20363061 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/pugfrenchloans_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/pugfrenchloans.jpg <![CDATA[GM and PSA detail four new co-developed vehicle projects]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/gm-and-psa-detail-four-new-co-developed-vehicle-projects/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/gm-and-psa-detail-four-new-co-developed-vehicle-projects/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/gm-and-psa-detail-four-new-co-developed-vehicle-projects/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

General Motors and PSA Peugeot Citroen logosNew details have emerged this morning regarding a partnership between General Motors and PSA Peugeot-Citroën. Following talks that started back in February, the American and French automakers will apparently team up to develop several vehicles, including a small MPV for Opel/Vauxhall and a compact crossover for Peugeot. Also planned is a small car for both Opel and Citroën.

Additionally, the two companies will co-develop a low-CO2-emitting small car platform to underpin the next generation of Opel and PSA models. The detailed plans call out a midsize platform to be shared between Opel/Vauxhall and Peugeot/Citroën.

As much as $2 billion in savings are expected in the next five years as a result of this venture. In a statement from GM and PSA, "All four projects will be developed combining the best platform architectures and technologies from alliance partners."

"Beyond this, PSA and GM are currently sounding out whether to extend the cooperation potentially to other fields," a GM representative told Automotive News Europe. The first vehicles developed from this joint venture are expected by the end of 2016. GM's official press release on the partnership can be found below.

Continue reading GM and PSA detail four new co-developed vehicle projects

GM and PSA detail four new co-developed vehicle projects originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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