The Faugburg addict styling takes its inspiration from the Numero 9 concept
We drive Citroen’s DS3 with the new Faubourg Addict Pack, a car you’ll never have a problem finding in the supermarket car-park.
What is it? Four years ago Citroën revived the DS name and at the very heart of this revival is the DS3. A car that has turned heads and changed hearts and introduced a whole new generation to Citroën.
Who is it aimed at? The DS3 is essentially a supermini but is designed for those who like to stand out from the crowd.
Styling? The special edition DS3 with Faubourg Pack comes with a very chic DS logo design on the roof that is also laser-etched into the door mirrors. Our test car came in “Whisper Purple” a deep black with subtle shades of violet, finished with stunning diamond effect alloys wheels with the same deep purple coloured caps.
Under the Bonnet? The DS3 DSport comes with a 115 horsepower ‘e-HDi’ low-emissions diesel engine which delivers an incredible fuel economy figure of 3.8 litres or 74.4 mpg for a mix of city and motorway driving.
What about inside? Inside the DS3 is one’s of its great charms, and its beautifully stylish with a delicate balance of retro chic and modern chrome. Space upfront is good and the driving position is particularly comfy.
Laser-engraved wing mirror housings
As a three door, four-seater it’s not the easiest for tall adults to wriggle into the backseat although it can be done it’s a little on cosy side once back there. Probably best to think of the rear space as extra storage for handbags and shoes – after all you can never have too many of either. The boot has 285 litres of space so while not huge it is decent enough for a car of it size and ample for any impromptu trip to the shops.
On the Road? On the road the car is lively and responsive and it handles so reassuringly; turn it into a bend and there is plenty of grip. The ride is a little hard and while it is not uncomfortable you will notice any imperfections or bumps on the road.
And Safety? Not only are there bags of style for your money the DS3 comes standard with a variety of safety features including electronic stability control, traction control and host of electronic aids to keep you and yours safely cocooned.
Options? The three-door version on test has an on-the-road price of €24,145. Metallic paint is an extra €490 and the Faubourg Pack costs €600.
Economy? The e-HDi DS Sport is not only fuel sipping but CO2 emissions are a mere 99 g/km so its €180 a year for motor tax.
Diamond-effect wheels with Whisper-colored centers coordinated with the body paint
Verdict? The DS3 is the one to opt for if you want to impress your friends. Its fun to drive, economical to run and easily one of the coolest cars around. A DS3 with a Faubourg Addict pack may scream “Look at me!” but at €1,090 more we are not convinced it’s worth the extra money. Stick with a “basic” DS3 and you won’t be disappointed.
Why you’ll buy one? Styling; Options; Fun to drive
Why you won’t? Price; Rear Space; harsh ride
Rivals
Mini – priced from €20,500
Fiat 500 – priced from €12,995
Citroën DS3 Faubourg Addict
Engine: 1560cc diesel engine, 115 bhp @ 3,600 rpm.
Max speed: 190km/h
0-100 kph: 9.7 seconds
Emissions (Motor Tax) : 99g/km (€180)
Model price range: €18,195 – €24,145 (Test Car – €25,235)
No of Doors: 3 doors
Euro NCAP : 5 stars
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 3.8 l/100km (74.4 mpg)
Boot Capacity Seats up(down) : 285 litres (980)
Car Seats: 2 Isofix fittings in the rear
Length: 3948mm
Width: 1715mm
Height: 1483mm
Wheelbase: 2464mm
For more information check out Citroën.ie or the Citroën Ireland Facebook page
Geraldine Herbert
26th March, 2014
