DS range could be expanded, says Citroen boss Frederic Banzet
By Andrew, 21 Oct, 2010. 0 Comments
Citroen Survolt Concept
Citroën boss Frederic Banzet told Autocar that the Citroen DS range may be expanded beyond the originally planned DS3, DS4 and DS5 models to a sports car. Banzet disclosed that Citroën executives are talking about the prospect of building an out-and-out DS sports car that could take its styling inspiration from the Survolt concept. Meanwhile, additional DS derivatives are being planned, including “different types of DS3.” Insiders say that what’s next on the list is a soft-top DS3. Several DS special editions, including tie-ups with fashion brands, are also possible.
Citroën has been selling twice what it expected for the stylish hatch in its first year. Banzet also said that he isn’t planning to make DS a stand-alone brand, despite the success of the DS3. But as part of Citroen’s global expansion plans, the DS3 will be sold in China, and will followed by the other DS models. The DS5 is the next DS to arrive. It will likely be displayed as a near production-ready concept at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
The disparity between DS4 and DS5 will be greater than how the DS3 and DS4 are different. Sources inside Citroën say that it will be a “significantly different execution” of the DS concept and also that the five-seat DS5 will be based on the current C5 but “not necessarily in terms of design and look.” Similar to the DS4, the car will ride higher than what it is based on and its sleek coupé profile will be inspired by the Citroën’s Hypnos concept.
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