New C-Elysée to lead Citroën global growth

Citroën has released two new models – the C-Elysée and C4 L – to spearhead its global growth strategy and “strengthen the firm’s product offering”, according to the French manufacturer.

The two new models will follow the launch of Citroën’s premium DS brand in China at the end of June and are said to embody Citroën’s trademark flair for “style, technology, innovation and quality”.

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The C-Elysée is a compact family saloon that claims to offer excellent practicality – with the longest wheelbase in its class at 2.65m, Citroën says the new car offers rear cabin room on a par with the class above. With a 506-litre boot, the C-Elysée offers more luggage space than a BMW 3 Series’ 480-litre offering.

Citroën’s new model will get the firm’s latest-generation 72hp 1.4-litre VTi 72 petrol engine, which the company says has been specifically tuned for driving conditions and fuel quality in emerging markets, such as China.

The new engines efficiency is improved over the 1.4-litre engine it replaces, with fuel consumption rated at 56.5mpg and CO2 emissions of 115g/km. Citroën’s new 115hp petrol engine and 92hp turbodiesel – returning 68.9mpg with 108g/km CO2 emissions – will also be available.

Equipment levels on the new car will be worthy of a premium small saloon – especially in markets experiencing high growth rates – with air conditioning, Bluetooth and an MP3 compatible stereo all available.

The new car will be manufactured in Spain and will go on sale in Turkey Spain, Central Europe and Algeria at the end of this year.

Alongside the C-Elysée, the C4 L – a long wheelbase saloon version of the C4 hatchback – will lead the firm’s global expansion plans.

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The C4 L is the first product from Citroën’s Shanghai style centre and features a “lounge-like” rear compartment, with wraparound seats and reclined back and headrests designed for extra comfort.

The car will be powered by Citroën’s 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine in 150hp or 170hp guise depending on the market, as well as the 135hp normally aspirated unit.

The C4 will only be manufactured and sold in China and Russia.

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