http://www.leftlanenews.com/french-gove ... r-psa.html
French government may buy stake in GM partner PSA
The French government is weighing whether to purchase a stake in faltering GM partner PSA Peugeot Citroen, the budget minister revealed today.
"Let's be clear: this company cannot, must not disappear," Budget Minister Jerome Cahuzac said on RMC radio. "We'll have to do what we have to do to save this company."
Others within the government were quick to comment that taking a stake in PSA is a possibility but not in France’s immediate plans. An official at the French finance ministry said: "The priority for the group is to pursue its recovery plan, to strengthen its alliance with General Motors and to continue its development."
Earlier this week, PSA – the parent company of France’s Peugeot and Citroen brands – announced that it is marking down its automotive assets by 4.13 billion Euros ($5.53 billion) due to the deterioration of the European market. In 2012, new car sales in Europe fell 8.2 percent to about 12 million units, the lowest level since 1995.
To cope with the continuing market downturn, PSA is moving to cut 11,200 jobs and shut down a factory in Aulnay.
Last July, General Motors acquired a $125 million, seven percent share in PSA as part of an extensive partnership between the two companies.
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http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/09/citr ... -roof-off/
Citroen DS3 tears the roof off
The Citroen 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, Citroen 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 Citroen 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.
NEW CITROĂN DS3 CABRIO: ESCAPE THE ORDINARY
- Citroen launches DS3 Cabrio, a new soft-top version of the highly successful DS3
- Available now for pre-orders, with first deliveries from the official 'on sale' date of 1 March
- Three versions introduced, priced from £15,045 to £19,675 MRRP OTR
- Seven body colours, three roof designs & nine wheel styles to choose from
- The only five-seater in the segment
- Biggest boot in the class (245-litres), with innovative tailgate opening mechanism
- Electric soft-top operates at up to 75mph & closes in just 16 seconds
- All the style of DS3 hatchback, combined with the open-top fun of a convertible
05/02/13 -- Citroen DS3 Cabrio is the latest advance in the distinctively styled DS line. A cabrio version of the multi-award winning DS3, this exciting new model features intelligent design and dazzling looks to make top-down driving considerably easier and even more enjoyable.
Launched almost three years ago, DS3 has proved an outstanding success for Citroen with over 200,000 sold worldwide, including more than 36,000 registered in the UK alone. Boasting enhanced personalisation possibilities with a range of roof designs, a series of special editions, a Racing version and Ultra Prestige models, DS3 has played a major role in boosting awareness of the expanding DS line. Overall, sales of DS3, DS4 and DS5 have already topped the 300,000 mark globally in just 30 months.
DS3 Cabrio boasts all the hallmarks that have made the hatchback so successful - bold styling, sophisticated refinement, extensive personalisation and a thoroughly enjoyable driving experience - combined with the pleasure of al-fresco motoring.
DS3 Cabrio leads the way for occupant space as the only five-seater in its class and features the biggest boot in the segment at 245-litres VDA. The electrically operated folding roof can be fully opened or closed at speeds of up to 75mph - which is also unique in this segment - and takes just 16 seconds to fully close. Top down driving has never been so easy.
BUYER PROFILE & COMPETITORS
The 'B2' convertible market is dominated by female buyers and DS3 Cabrio's customer profile will largely reflect existing demand with owners typically aged 35+ with a strong female bias. In this segment, a high proportion of buyers are also 'young at heart' with older, more independent children at home. It will also attract younger couples and single people, both male and female, looking for a vehicle that reflects their personality - offering distinctive styling, prestige, excitement, a sporty drive and a sense of escapism.
The UK is one of the biggest markets for convertibles in Europe and is expected to be one of the principal markets for DS3 Cabrio. The new models will compete with core 'B2' segment convertible models such as the Fiat 500C and MINI Convertible. Thanks to class-leading occupant space and boot volume, DS3 Cabrio is also expected to appeal to prospective buyers of convertibles in other market sectors, such as the Mazda MX5 or Renault MĂŠgane CC.
Offering all the pleasure of soft-top motoring without the usual compromises in terms of space, functionality or economy, Citroen DS3 Cabrio offers prospective buyers the opportunity to 'escape the ordinary'.
OUTSIDE IN
DS3 Cabrio retains the hatchback's unique personality, with the same compact, dynamic proportions and bold styling choices from the 'floating' two-tone roof and 'shark fin' B-pillar to the sculpted front-end with its distinctive LED light signature.
Maintaining the DS line's extensive customisation levels, DS3 Cabrio is available in seven body colours with three colour-coordinated roof designs for a choice of fourteen combinations. There are nine different wheel styles, to let owners express their personality even further, and buyers can specify 16" or 17" alloys in a range of colours and designs.
Extensive chrome detailing, such as across the top of the boot lid and on the side rubbing strips, highlights the model's charismatic design, with dark tinted rear windows adding a further stylish touch.
At the rear, DS3 Cabrio boasts an eye-catching three-dimensional LED light signature. The all-new 3D LED tail-light technology was inspired by the designs on Citroen's Revolte and Survolt concept cars. The central part of the light is comprised of a rectangular set of 31 LEDs with semi-reflecting mirrors that reflect the light into 'infinity'. A 15-LED blade on the upper part of the light emphasises the 3D unit and acts as both side and brake lights. A chrome-finished DS logo, in an embossed black DS setting, is also incorporated into the design.
RAISE THE ROOF
One of DS3 Cabrio's standout features is its electric fully retractable, high quality canvas roof, which can be operated at speeds of up to 75mph. Unique in the segment, this important feature allows drivers to react to the weather without having to stop or slow down - even when they are on the motorway.
A button on the overhead console controls the roof to three positions - intermediate, horizontal and total - with the roof fully opening or closing in just 16 seconds. Even in the horizontal setting, rear passengers get a completely clear view overhead.
The roof is available in three designs - Black, Infinite Blue and Moondust Grey DS Monogramme. The sophisticated Infinite Blue canvas comprises delicate hues of blue and violet. The visual effect is created by a weave of three different coloured threads, one of which is shiny, with each thread reacting differently to changes in light conditions. Referencing products from luxury goods manufacturers, the DS logo featured on the Monogramme canvas roof is a subtle design achieved by contrasting two 'Jacquard' grey tones with a Moondust Grey base.
INSIDE OUT
Inside, DS3 Cabrio offers a distinctive and sophisticated cabin for both the driver and passengers. There is white LED ambient lighting around the ceiling console and white lights in the instrument cluster. The high quality soft-top material delivers standard-setting soundproofing comparable to DS3 hatchback, with some of the best acoustic insulation against road noise and the elements in its class. When the roof is open, an aerodynamic front deflector provides optimum acoustic comfort by deflecting air currents and preventing air buffeting.
All-new upholstery choices are available, including Granite Blue leather. The dĂŠcor on the dashboard strip, air vent surrounds and gear knob are colour-coded to the body paint and soft-top. There are six dĂŠcor choices available - Aluminium effect, Gloss Black, White, Carbon Fibre effect, Infinite Blue and Moondust Grey.
Chrome and leather touches, on the gear knob and gear lever surround, handbrake and steering wheel further exemplify DS3 Cabrio's premium personality. For a sporty touch, aluminium drilled foot pedals are also available.
CRĂATIVE TECHNOLOGIE ONBOARD
DS3 Cabrio inherits all the convenient technology of the hatchback, including Citroen's integrated satellite navigation system, eMyWay, which features a high-resolution 7-inch colour widescreen, Europe-wide navigation and Bluetooth® and USB connectivity.
Rear parking sensors are standard across the range, providing added reassurance when parking with the roof down. For added occupant comfort, whatever the weather, automatic digital air conditioning is also available.
A CLASS APART
At 3.95m long, 1.71m wide and 1.46m high, DS3 Cabrio offers virtually the same amount of occupant space as DS3 hatchback and even retains the 60/40 split-folding rear bench. Accommodating up to five adults, which is a unique achievement in this class, all three rear occupants benefit from ample leg room and individual head rests.
DS3 Cabrio offers a class leading boot with a capacity of 245-litres VDA. The tailgate also features an original opening mechanism, which uses a circular upwards motion allowing the boot to be fully opened even when parked close to obstructions. For loading larger items, the split-folding rear seats can be tumbled forward with ease.
Boot Volume Comparison / (Litres)
DS3 Cabrio / 245
MINI Convertible / 125
Fiat 500C / 185
AIR & DYNAMICS
Adding to a range praised for its enjoyable handling - and boasting a strong WRC pedigree - DS3 Cabrio remains a pleasure to drive with the optimised architecture retaining the agile and responsive feel of the original DS3.
Featuring the same technical platform and high-precision drivetrains as the hatchback, with additional strengthening at the rear for maximum rigidity, DS3 Cabrio delivers the same eager handling that makes the DS3 range so enjoyable behind the wheel. At the same time DS3 Cabrio offers the highest levels of comfort, control and safety, putting the driver firmly in control on the road.
DS3 Cabrio's engineers focused on efficiency and minimising weight during the design process. The new model is just 25kg heavier than the hatchback. Typically convertibles are around 100kg more than their equivalent hatchback versions.
The rear spoiler and deflectors on the rear quarter-lights mean the aerodynamics - SCx of 0.69m2 - are identical to the hatchback with the roof closed, enhancing the model's performance and helping to reduce CO2 emissions.
EFFICIENT POWER
DS3 Cabrio will be available from launch with a choice of three refined and efficient Euro V petrol engines - VTi 82, VTi 120 and THP 155. The VTi engines are mated with 5-speed manual gearboxes and the THP 155 is twinned with a 6-speed manual transmission.
Fuel economy is up to 57.6mpg on a combined cycle, with CO2 emissions from just 112g/km.
A Gear Efficiency Indicator (GEI) is also fitted as standard that signals the optimum moment to change gear - saving fuel and encouraging economically efficient driving.
SAFETY FIRST
- DS3 Cabrio maintains the high levels of safety offered by the DS3 hatchback range, including;
- ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Driver's, front passenger's, front lateral & curtain airbags
- Cruise control with speed limiter
- Isofix child seat anchorage points
- Citroen's award-winning eTouch Emergency & Assistance system, which automatically or manually makes geo-localised emergency or assistance calls using a built-in SIM card, for rapid intervention in the event of an accident or if the car is immobilised
PRICES & TRIMS
DS3 Cabrio is available in the DS line's three signature trim levels - DSign, DStyle & DSport - with ownership starting at £15,045 for the VTi 82 DSign rising to £19,675 for the THP 155 DSport. The most popular model is forecast to be the VTi 120 DStyle at £17,425 and the sales split is expected to be approximately 65% retail and 35% fleet/business.
TRIM / CO2 EMISSIONS / MRR OTR PRICE
VTi 82 DSign / 112 / £15,045
VTi 120 DStyle / 136 / £17,425
THP 155 DSport / 137 / £19,675
Generously specified across all trim levels, this is a summary of standard equipment:
DSIGN
• ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) & Emergency Braking Assistance (EBA
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Driver's, front passenger's, front lateral & curtain airbags
• Cruise control with speed limiter
• Electrically adjustable door mirrors
• 3D LED rear lights
• Front fog lights
• Black 'Touch' fabric roof
• RDS stereo radio/MP3 compatible CD player with steering mounted controls & six speakers
• Chrome side rubbing strips, door handles & door sill protector
• Dark tinted rear windows
• GEI (Gear Efficiency Indicator)
• 'Black panel' night-time instrument lighting
• Sport suspension
• Front electric windows with 'one-touch' operation on the driver's side
• Rear parking sensors
DSTYLE adds:
• Air conditioning
• Interior mood lighting
• Chrome front fog light surrounds, front grille surround & insert on rear number plate moulding
• Gloss black painted centre console
• Leather handbrake with chrome insert & chrome gear surround
• Leather effect gear knob
• Scented air freshener
• 16" 'Ashera' alloy wheels (set of four)
• Signature daytime running LEDs
• Gloss black dashboard
DSPORT adds:
• Anti-theft alarm
• Citroen eTouch Emergency & Assistance system
• Double chrome exhaust pipe
• High quality leather steering wheel with chrome inserts
• Front & rear carpet mats
• Connecting Box - Bluetooth® system with USB socket & Hi-Fi System
• Automatic digital air conditioning
• 17" 'Bellone' alloy wheels (set of four)
• Carbon fibre effect dashboard
INSURANCE GROUP RATINGS
DS3 Cabrio is offered with competitive insurance ratings from as low as 10E for the VTi 82 DSign.
The rating for each model is shown below:
TRIM / INSURANCE RATING
VTi 82 DSign / 10E
VTi 120 DStyle / 16E
THP 155 DSport / 23E
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