Citroën DS3 Style VTi 120 Aut. · 120 CV (2013-2014)

2010
Gasolina
FWD
Automático 4v

Especificaciones y análisis del Citroën DS3

Power

120HP

Torque

160Nm

Consumption

6.5l/100

Emissions

150g/km

0-100 km/h

10.9s

Top Speed

190km/h

Weight

1164kg

Price

19,670

Technical summary

Fuel

Gasolina

Transmission

Automático 4v

Traction

FWD

Seats

5 / 3 doors

Trunk

285 L

Tank

50 L

Power

88 kW

Status

Current

Technical specifications

Engine

Maximum power120 CV / 88 kW
Maximum torque160 Nm
Fuel typeGasolina
TransmissionAutomático 4v

Capacities

Tank50 L
Trunk285 L

Detailed analysis of the Citroën DS3 Style VTi 120 Aut. · 120 CV (2013-2014)

General description

The Citroën DS3 burst onto the market as a statement of intent, a breath of fresh, French chic air in the premium supermini segment. This version with the 120-horsepower VTi engine and automatic transmission is presented as the option for those seeking a car with an overwhelming personality, combining daily driving pleasure with an unmistakable style, making every journey an experience beyond the purely functional.

Driving experience

Behind the wheel, the DS3 conveys a sense of agility and comfort. Its 120-horsepower engine is willing and moves the car with ease in urban traffic and on the open road. However, the experience is marked by its 4-speed automatic gearbox. It's a transmission that prioritizes smoothness in calm driving but feels outdated and slow when a quick response is demanded, limiting the engine's verve. It's not a sports car, but a refined companion for enjoying the scenery with a suspension that filters out bumps well, offering superior ride comfort compared to many of its harsher rivals.

Design and aesthetics

Design is the soul of the DS3. Every line and every detail screams originality. Its floating roof, the characteristic 'shark fin' on the central pillar, and its vertical LED daytime running lights created an iconic visual signature that still turns heads today. It's a car that feels personal, almost a piece of haute couture on wheels. Inside, that feeling continues with a boldly shaped dashboard and materials that, at the time, felt a step above average, creating a special and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like you're in a car different from the rest.

Technology and features

In the technology department, the DS3 reflects its era. The heart of the car, the VTi engine, is a capable powertrain but lacks more modern efficiency advancements like Start-Stop. The real jarring note is its torque converter automatic transmission with only four gears, a technology that was already perceived as a step behind the dual-clutch or multi-speed gearboxes offered by the competition at its launch. The comfort and connectivity equipment was adequate for its time, but it lacks the touchscreens and driver assistance systems that are standard today.

Competition

The Citroën DS3 faced style titans like the MINI Cooper, the Audi A1, and the Alfa Romeo MiTo. While the MINI offered devilish handling and the A1 the sobriety and quality of a premium German brand, the DS3 played the card of avant-garde design and greater ride comfort. Against the Alfa MiTo and its 'cuore sportivo', the DS3 offered a more sophisticated and bohemian charm. It was the alternative for those looking to stand out with audacity and a touch of French glamour.

Conclusion

The Citroën DS3 VTi 120 Automatic is an eminently emotional choice. It's a car that captivates with its timeless aesthetics and charisma. It is the perfect vehicle for those who value design and comfort over pure performance or the latest technology. Despite a gearbox that doesn't do it justice, its ride is pleasant, and its unique personality makes it a modern classic. It's more than just a means of transportation; it's a style accessory, a faithful companion for the concrete jungle that will make you smile every time you look at it.