Citroen DS 'Numero 9' concept revealed
Beijing show concept hints at future flagship saloon for DS sub-brand
Marking the arrival of the DS sub-brand in China - one of Citroen's most important export markets - the Numero 9 is expected to be called the DS9 when it eventually morphs into a production car.
But as well as the forthcoming D-segment executive saloon (think 5 Series-ish territory), the Numero 9 also heralds the design cues for a forthcoming SUV and smaller C-segment saloon.
Underneath the swoopy shooting brake body style is a plug-in hybrid drivetrain that Citroen promises will deliver 166mpg fuel economy, 50km range in ZEV mode, 295hp, a 'boost' function and 39g/km of CO2. Quite bold claims, in other words.
The car combines a conventional petrol or diesel engine (depending on the market - the one in Beijing will have a 225hp 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine) with an electric motor on the rear axle that develops 70hp and 148lb ft of torque. The electric motor is powered by lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged in just 3½ hours from a normal domestic socket.
With its plug-in hybrid technology, the Numéro 9 has a range of 50km (around 31miles) in all-electric ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode, and also features micro-hybrid tech designed to switch the combustion engine to standby whenever it is not required.
For speedier moment, a 'boost' function combines the power of the petrol or diesel engine and electric motor to produce up to 295hp, enough to take the Numero 9 takes to 62mph from rest in just 5.4 seconds.
Hats off to Citroen.
They are working hard to produce cars that are different, elegant and distinctive.
I know that VAG is the big bear in the market in terms of sales and impact, but when you look at the staid, slab-sided, ugly monotony of an Audi A8, for example, you have to admire Citroen for having some courage.
Good for them. This car is a lovely looking thing.
Hats off to Citroen.
They are working hard to produce cars that are different, elegant and distinctive.
I know that VAG is the big bear in the market in terms of sales and impact, but when you look at the staid, slab-sided, ugly monotony of an Audi A8, for example, you have to admire Citroen for having some courage.
Good for them. This car is a lovely looking thing.
I'm a sucker for a Brake at the best of times but if they can get this one to market I'll be impressed. Not sure about the meringue wheels but the rest is tres chic. Wing mirrors look downright lethal though, both in terms of decapitating people and visibility.
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