2012 Citroen Numero 9

Citroen has announced the new Numero 9 concept - a new vehicle that will join the current DSline-up, including the DS3, DS4, and DS5. The Numero 9 previews the styling cues of the next three models in the line: a C-segment premium sedan, an SUV,nd a D-segment executive saloon.

The new Numero 9 is a plug-in full-hybrid vehicle that combines a 225 HP 1.6 liter petrol engine powering the front wheels with a lithium-ion powered electric motor that is positioned on the rear axle and adds another 70 HP. In pure electric mode, the new Numero 9 has a autonomy of 31 miles. It can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds and hit a top speed of 152 mph.

Citroen will be unveiling their new Numero 9 concept at the end of April at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show.

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2011 Citroen DS3 Grey Matter

One of the most impressive Citroens ever launched - the DS3 - is now being offered in a "Grey Matter" limited edition. The special edition will only be limited to 750 units and will be offered in VTi 120 and THP 150 versions, priced at €23,400 and €24,950 ex-VAT respectively.

The new DS3 "Grey Matter" edition will be distinguished by a matte gray body with chrome detailing on the side mirrors, side strips, and tail light casings. The roof comes in black or white and is enhanced by a decorative kit and 17-inch diamond alloy wheels in the same colors.

For the interior, the special edition will get Mistral leather and a MyWay Select Comfort Pack, which includes automatic climate control, the MyWay navigation system, and the HiFi system.

The DS3 Grey Matter will have two engines to choose from: the VTi 120 version which gets a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter engine with 148 HP and a THP 120 model that will be powered by a four-cylinder engine with an output of 154 HP.

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2011 Citroen DS5

Citroen has set its path in motion for the 2011 Shanghai Motor Show with a teaser image of the third model in the DS line-up, next to the DS3 and DS4. The Citroen DS5 will make its debut at the Shanghai International Motor Show on April 20, 2011, but first, the company will be presenting their new model on Citroën’s Facebook page on April 18, 2011 at 10:30am Paris time (so about 4:30pm Eastern time).

The DS5 is described as "the manifestation of its finest expertise. A daring and sculptural creation, the DS5 perfectly expresses the DS spirit, namely bold choices on styling, architecture, sensations and refinement, while implementing the best in Citroën technology."

Next to an impressive exterior design, the DS5 is also the first Citroen model to feature HYbrid4 diesel hybrid technology, providing enhanced performance and class leading environmental credentials.

Updated 04/18/2011: This review has been updated with the official images and details. Hit the jump to read more about the new Citroen DS5.

Exterior and Interior The new Citroen DS5 is based on the C-Sport Lounge concept and features the same styling cues as the DS3 and DS5. The exterior is defined by flowing lines, a sleek profile, and muscular wheel arches. Up front, the car gets an oversized air intake, a large chrome-finished grille housing the chevrons, and a new LED light signature. Compared to the other DS model, the DS5 features chrome-finished "sabre" inserts stretching from the top of each headlamp to the windscreen. At the rear, there are two tail pipes built into the rear bumper and highlighted by a rear signature featuring six light guides. The DS5 will sit on large alloy wheels, size 16" to 19". The same design language is also continued on the interior, where Citroen did their best in making the driver’s job as easy as possible. There is a river-focused cockpit featuring a coupe-like driving position with a near-vertical steering wheel and a wide central console. However, it might be useful to have a manual around you as there are tons of buttons, switches, scroll wheels, and toggles grouped on two central consoles - one low down and one above the driver’s head, "pilot-style". Everything on the interior is covered in fine-grain Club leather and exclusive designs like the "watchstrap" seat upholstery - a signature touch of the DS line that is unique to the market. The model presented in Shanghai is painted in White Pearl, while the interior of the cabin features ebony-colored full-grain leather, contrasting subtly with silver-flecked over stitching. The car sits on specially designed 20-inch alloy wheels. Engine The new Citroen DS5 is the company’s first model to feature HYbrid4 diesel hybrid technology that combines a 2.0 liter diesel engine with an electric motor powering the rear axle. The system delivers a total of 200 HP and is combined with four-wheel drive capability, emission-free electric power for the city, and an acceleration boost function for the open road. With this engine set-up, the new HYbrid4 system emits only 99 g/km of CO2. Price There is no word just yet on when this new model will go on sale or how much it will cost, but stay tuned and we will let you know. Competition The Citroen DS5 was most certainly built as an alternative for the group’s other HYbrid4 powered crossover: the Peugeot 3008. Of course, the latest DS5 model is far more impressive than the Peugeot model, but when it comes to performance, they are identical. If people decide they want a model with style and luxury then they should opt for the DS5 model. The only problem with that is the extra oomph provided by the new model will come with a higher price tag.

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