Especificaciones y análisis del Citroën DS3
Power
120HP
Torque
160Nm
Consumption
6.6l/100
Emissions
153g/km
0-100 km/h
10.9s
Top Speed
190km/h
Weight
1164kg
Price
18,470€
Technical summary
Gasolina
Automático 4v
FWD
5 / 3 doors
285 L
50 L
88 kW
Current
Technical specifications
Engine
Capacities
Detailed analysis of the Citroën DS3 Style VTi 120 Aut. · 120 CV (2012-2013)
General description
The Citroën DS3 burst onto the market as a statement of intent, a breath of fresh, French chic in the premium supermini segment. It wasn't just a car; it was a fashion accessory on wheels, designed to captivate eyes and hearts, and to boldly challenge the iconic MINI.
Driving experience
Behind the wheel, the DS3 with the 120 hp VTi engine offers a smooth and pleasant drive, perfect for gliding through the city in style. Its agility is remarkable, and it feels light. However, the veteran 4-speed automatic gearbox feels like an anchor in time; its reactions are slow and sometimes hesitant, detracting from the verve the engine could offer and tarnishing an experience that could have been much more dynamic and exciting.
Design and aesthetics
This is where the DS3 becomes a work of art. Its design is pure emotion and personality. The 'shark fin' on the B-pillar, the customizable floating roof in vibrant colors, and the vertical LED daytime running lights created an unforgettable visual identity. It was a blank canvas for its owners, a car that refused to be just another one in the crowd and that, even today, turns heads as it passes.
Technology and features
Technologically, the DS3 met the expectations of its time, without major boasts. It had the essential safety systems and basic connectivity. The biggest point of debate is its torque converter automatic transmission with only four gears, a solution that already felt outdated in 2012 and penalized both performance and consumption compared to more modern options from its competitors.
Competition
Its battlefield was that of small cars with big personalities. Its direct rival and the benchmark to beat was, without a doubt, the MINI Cooper. But it wasn't alone; it also competed with the Italian charm of the Alfa Romeo MiTo and the premium sobriety of the Audi A1, each offering a different vision of what an exclusive supermini should be.
Conclusion
The Citroën DS3 is a car chosen with the heart. It is a celebration of design, customization, and French 'savoir-faire'. Although its mechanical package, especially the gearbox, was not up to par with its spectacular exterior, its charisma is undeniable. It was, and still is, a car for those who value aesthetics and distinction over pure dynamic efficiency.