New powertrain strengthens DS 3’s case, just as inconsistent cabin quality and ageing fittings weaken it This is the latest version of the DS 3 supermini – as of 1 May, without a mention of Citroën anywhere on the car, or on the brochure. The French car maker wants the DS premium brand to stand on its own two feet and is investing in five all-new or renewed models over the next five years to lure customers into showrooms. Eventually, even the famous double chevron will disappear from the car’s radiator grille.The DS 3 received what could be thought of as the first half of a mid-life refresh last year, with new petrol and diesel engines, new headlights and a styling refresh hitting the range. Now comes a torque converter automatic version of PSA’s turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder ‘Puretech’ petrol engine, as well as a new touchscreen multimedia system and some additions to the colour and trim palette.The 109bhp Puretech petrol engine replaces PSA’s old 118bhp 1.6-litre normally aspirated petrol unit, trumping it on torque and emissions by about 30%. It’s expected to be a fairly significant part of the sales mix, with petrol autos accounting for more than 10% of UK sales of Mini Coopers and Audi A1s.
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