2013 DS 3 Cabrio 1.2L VTi 5MT (82 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Based on the same platform as the Citroen C3, the DS3 Cabriolet represented the French automaker’s comeback on the open-top vehicles that targeted premium customers.

Citroen introduced the DS3 hatchback in 2009 as an alternative for small-sized premium hatchbacks. Even though the brand itself wasn’t instantly recognized as an upscale automaker, the product itself was different than the rest of the French car manufacturer range. It was a clear upgrade compared with the Citroen C3, with which it shared its platform, and had some punchy engines that could give other hot hatches on the market a run for their money. That model gathered more than 200,000 units in sales in just three years despite the world financial crisis that shrunk the automotive market. As a result, Citroen dared to provide customers with an even more exciting version, the 2013 DS3 Cabrio.

With a front fascia shaped with organic lines and swept-back headlights, the DS 3 Cabrio introduced a new design language for the brand. The main grille was adorned by a chromed trim that included the “double-chevron” badge on its upper side. A set of round fog lamps flanked it, while vertical LED daytime running lights completed the front image of the vehicle with their side-mounted position.

On its profile, the DS3 Cabrio featured a floating-roof design. The automaker kept all the car’s pillars and installed a retractable canvas on the roof only. It was more of a top-cabriolet rather than a full one, which helped the DS keep the vehicle’s weight down. Citroen offered the DS3 Cabrio in a choice of seven body colors and three roof designs for a choice of fourteen combinations. Furthermore, customers could opt for the 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels. At the back, the three-dimensional-looking LED taillights flanked the tailgate. Unlike its regular hatchback sibling, the Cabrio featured a retractable rear window, so the trunk’s lid opened in an unusual, semi-circular way. Despite being large enough to fit a couple of suitcases, its access area was narrow.

Inside, the automaker tried to convince its customers with a cool cabin, where the driver fronted a tri-circular instrument cluster where the speedometer took center stage. On its left was the tachometer, while on the right was the dial for the fuel gauge, the odometer, and other info from the car’s onboard computer. On the center stack, the automaker placed the controls for the HVAC system and the stereo. Depending on the options, the center console housed the gear stick or the gear selector for the automatic transmission. In the back, the bench seat was wide enough to fit three adults on short jaunts, although on long travels, it was uncomfortable.

Under the hood, Citroen installed a wide choice of diesel and gasoline engines from the DS3 hatchback, including the potent 1.6-liter THP 155 PS (153 hp) gasoline powerplant paired with a six-speed manual. Selected versions were available with four- or five-speed automatic transmissions.