
Capitalizing on their participation in rally racing has emerged as the marketing ploy du jour for carmakers. Far be it for us to complain when that nets us exciting new hot models from Japanese manufacturers like Subaru and Mitsubishi, but their French compatriots just don't seem to know how to translate racing prowess to road cars. Case in point, the all-show-no-go "by LOEB" Special Series hatchbacks from Citroen.
Parent company PSA says it's released the special editions to honor their all-star driver Sebastien Loeb, but this strikes us as just as big a disgrace to an esteemed racing name as the (thankfully departed) Fiat Stilo Michael Schumacher Edition.
The "special" editions start with the C4 coupe and C2, but badge engineers didn't go anywhere near the engine bay. All the changes are purely cosmetic. According to Citroen, "The C4 by LOEB offers drivers a harmonious blend of sporting passion and day-to-day driving pleasure." That should tip you off, because racing beasts like the Subie STi and Mitsu Evo are anything but harmonious.
Both the C2 and C4 by LOEB are available (overseas only, thankfully) in red or black. They both get rear spoilers, upgraded wheels and special badging to let everyone know the driver's a poser. Inside surfaces are all black with red trim: the steering wheel and shift knobs are black leather with red top-stitching, the seats are black fabric with red trim, little red chevrons are embroidered all over the place, and are complimented by select aluminum accents.
Poor Sebastien. You'd think after winning the WRC title three times, his name would be gracing something with a bit more bite.
Glutton for punishment? Follow the jump for the press release and more images.
[Source: PSA Peugeot Citroen]