Citroen DS Inside (DS3) Concept Unveiled

Only a rumor last week, the DS3 nameplate is now official. Citroen has just confirmed that it plans to revive the DS (which stands for Different Spirit) vehicle lineup launched in the past and gave us a glimpse into the new vehicle range through the first concept expected to be displayed at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. Codenamed DS Insight, the concept is probably the first step towards DS3, a model which is likely to share several parts with the new C3 variant. Obviously, the DS3 will compete with other mini-cars, including MINI Cooper, the newly-launched Alfa Romeo MiTo and Fiat 500.

Citroen hasn't released too many details about this concept but according to recent rumors, it may incorporate almost the same engines as C3, including both diesel- and gasoline-powered units. As mentioned, the two-door model is expected to be displayed at Geneva in March, with mass-production likely to start in early 2010.

“The concept car and vehicle line are characterised by forthright choices on styling, onroad performance and use. These are accessible objects of desire, cars that stand apart by their creativity, intelligent design and build quality, embodying the very best of CITROËN. The new product line will perfectly illustrate CITROËN’s new spirit of Créative Technologie,” Citroen said in a statement for the press.

The French manufacturer also mentioned that the new DS line will introduced a new naming system, with all models to carry a letter and a number, similar to the C range. Just like earlier rumors said, the DS line will include at least three models, DS3 – prepared for Geneva, DS4 – to be launched in the first half of 2011 and DS5 – an upper-medium car expected to arrive on the market in late 2011.