The Citroen DS 3 (Phase I) 1.4 VTi 95 Hp GPL, produced from June 2012 to July 2013, represented an entry-level offering within the stylish and distinctive DS 3 hatchback range. Positioned as an affordable and economical option, this variant combined a naturally aspirated 1.4-liter petrol engine with the flexibility of a dedicated Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) system. It was a key model in Citroen’s attempt to broaden the DS 3’s appeal beyond its fashion-conscious initial target audience, offering a lower purchase price and reduced running costs. The DS 3 itself was built on the PF1 platform, shared with the Peugeot 207 and Citroen C3, but distinguished itself through unique styling and a more premium interior feel.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | DS3 |
| Generation | DS 3 (Phase I) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 VTi (95 Hp) GPL |
| Start of production | June, 2012 |
| End of production | July, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (LPG) (NEDC) | 10.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (LPG) (NEDC) | 6.6 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (LPG) (NEDC) | 8.1 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 134 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (LPG) (NEDC) | 127 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / LPG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm, 118.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68 Hp/l |
| Torque | 136 Nm @ 4000 rpm (100.31 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 8FP EP3C |
| Engine displacement | 1397 cm3 (85.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1152 kg (2539.73 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1552 kg (3421.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 980 l (34.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Fuel tank capacity (LPG) | 33 l |
| Max. roof load | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 46 kg (101.41 lbs.) |
| Length | 3948 mm (155.43 in.) |
| Width | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2004 mm (78.9 in.) |
| Height | 1458-1483 mm (57.4 – 58.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2464 mm (97.01 in.) |
| Front track | 1465-1468 mm (57.68 – 57.8 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1467-1471 mm (57.76 – 57.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 824 mm (32.44 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 660 mm (25.98 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the DS 3 1.4 VTi 95 Hp GPL is the 8FP (EP3C) engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine belongs to the PSA Group’s (Peugeot Citroen) ET3 family. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The engine’s 95 horsepower output at 6000 rpm and 136 Nm (100.31 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm are relatively modest, but sufficient for urban and suburban driving. Crucially, this variant was equipped for bi-fuel operation, capable of running on either petrol or LPG. The LPG system typically consisted of a dedicated tank (33 liters in this case) and a vaporiser that converted the liquid LPG into a gaseous state for combustion. The engine control unit (ECU) automatically switched between fuels, offering the driver the flexibility to choose based on cost and availability. The transmission is a standard five-speed manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 VTi 95 Hp Automatic DS 3 offered a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 12.2 seconds, making it slower than the more powerful DS 3 variants like the 1.6 THP 155 or the diesel-powered HDi models. The five-speed gearbox was geared for economy rather than performance, with relatively tall ratios. This resulted in acceptable fuel economy, especially when running on LPG, but required frequent downshifts when overtaking or climbing hills. The steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic. The suspension, while generally comfortable, could feel a little firm on rougher road surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 VTi 95 Hp GPL typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment, though it was positioned below the higher-spec DS 3 trims. Standard features generally included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a minimalist design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. The DS 3 was known for its customization options, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles with a wide range of exterior colors, roof decals, and interior trim choices.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 3 1.4 VTi 95 Hp GPL utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an elastic beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drums. This configuration was typical for vehicles in this weight class and price range. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 3 1.4 VTi 95 Hp GPL was generally well-received as an affordable and economical entry point into the DS 3 range. Critics praised its stylish design and comfortable interior, but noted its relatively modest performance. Compared to the more powerful DS 3 variants, it lacked the punch needed for spirited driving. However, its lower purchase price and reduced running costs (thanks to the LPG system) made it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The LPG conversion also offered a degree of environmental benefit, with lower CO2 emissions compared to running solely on petrol.
Legacy
The 8FP (EP3C) 1.4-liter engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, proved to be reasonably reliable. The LPG system, when properly maintained, added to the engine’s longevity. Today, used examples of the DS 3 1.4 VTi 95 Hp GPL are relatively common and can be found at affordable prices. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, although LPG systems require periodic inspection and servicing. The DS 3’s distinctive styling and relatively low running costs continue to make it a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and economical small hatchback.
