Citroen launched its first Chinese-built SUV model last week at the Guangzhou auto show, according to Automotive News China.
With a starting price of 110,000 yuan ($17,990), the Citroen C3-XR compact SUV is 4,260-millimeter-long, 1,790-millimeter-wide and 1,560-millimeter-tall vehicle.
It has a 2,655-millimeter wheelbase and is powered by a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with an optional turbocharger. The engine is combined with a six-speed automatic transmission.
As gathered by China Daily, the Citroen C3-XR's Grip Control system adjusts the car on variable road surfaces and the ARTECH design derives from the CXR concept car. The "C3" in its name indicates the mid-level, while the "XR" stands for unknown roads. The car's turbo high pressure engine comes with a smart stop-and-start system, making it not only powerful but also fuel-efficient.
With its length, the Citroen C3-XR may be the longest mid-sized SUV yet. It comes packed with the "Citroen Connect" information and entertainment system that will make driving a pleasure according to the company's promotions.
The Citroen C3-XR compact SUV is produced at the Wuhan assembly plant of Dongfeng Peugeot Citroen Automobile Co., a 50-50 joint venture between Dongfeng Motor Corp. and PSA Peugeot Citroen. It is the fourth compact SUV that the French automaker has produced in China.
The other locally produced SUV models are the Peugeot 2008, Peugeot 3008 and Citroen DS6. The Peugeot 2008 and 3008 are built by Dongfeng Peugeot, while the Citroen DS6 is assembled by Changan PSA Automobiles Co., a 50-50 partnership between Chang'an Automobile Co. and PSA in the south China city of Shenzhen.
Chen Xi, general manager of Dongfeng Citroen, told China Daily during the Guangzhou auto show that the "C3-XR will be a starter of the company's growth, and help elevate the brand image and the market share."
Dongfeng Citroen announced that the Citroen C3-XR compact SUV is set to be launched in the Chinese market on Dec. 21.