The Citroën DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 THP (155 hp) represents a stylish and performance-oriented variant of the first-generation DS 3 Cabrio, produced between 2012 and 2014. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the DS 3 Cabrio lineup, it combined the appeal of a compact, open-top design with a potent turbocharged engine. This model aimed to attract buyers seeking a blend of fashion, fun, and respectable performance in a uniquely Citroën package. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where the DS 3, and particularly the Cabrio, found a strong following as a premium subcompact.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroën |
| Model | DS3 |
| Generation | DS 3 (Phase I) Cabrio |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 THP (155 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 137 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 155 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FV EP6CDT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1175 kg (2590.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1619 kg (3569.28 lbs.) |
| Max load | 444 kg (978.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 245 l (8.65 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| 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.) |
| Height | 1458-1483 mm (57.4 – 58.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2452 mm (96.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1465-1468 mm (57.68 – 57.8 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1467-1471 mm (57.76 – 57.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.2-10.4 m (33.46 – 34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 THP is the EP6CDT engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine developed by PSA Peugeot Citroën in collaboration with BMW. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver a responsive and efficient driving experience. The engine code ‘EP6CDT’ signifies its technological lineage, sharing core components with BMW’s N4 family of engines. The engine produces 155 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1400 rpm, providing strong acceleration and flexible power delivery. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise gear changes and enhancing driver engagement. While an automatic transmission was available on other DS 3 models, it wasn’t typically paired with the 155 hp THP engine in the Cabrio variant.
Driving Characteristics
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 THP offered a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to lower-powered versions. The turbocharger provides a surge of power in the mid-range, making overtaking and highway cruising effortless. The 6-speed manual transmission allows drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband. While not a sports car, the DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 THP handles well, with a relatively firm suspension setup that minimizes body roll. The Cabriolet’s open-top design adds to the sense of freedom and enjoyment, although it does introduce some additional chassis flex compared to the hardtop version. The gear ratios are well-matched for everyday driving, providing good acceleration in each gear.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 THP Cabrio typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a CD stereo with USB connectivity, electric front windows, and remote central locking. Higher trim levels, such as Sport or Prestige, added features like automatic climate control, leather upholstery, alloy wheels, and a panoramic sunroof. Citroën offered a wide range of customization options for the DS 3, allowing buyers to personalize their car with different roof colors, interior trim materials, and exterior styling elements. The Cabriolet specifically featured an electrically operated cloth roof, which could be retracted in around 16 seconds.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 3 Cabrio utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an elastic beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the car’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety in emergency braking situations. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 THP was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, engaging driving experience, and relatively fuel-efficient engine. Compared to the base 1.4-liter engine, the 1.6 THP offered a significant performance upgrade. However, some critics noted that the Cabriolet’s chassis lacked the rigidity of the hardtop version. Compared to rivals like the Fiat 500C and Mini Cabrio, the DS 3 Cabrio offered a more distinctive and arguably more sophisticated design. Fuel economy was competitive for its class, averaging around 39.9 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The Citroën DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 THP has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the EP6CDT engine generally considered robust. However, like any turbocharged engine, it’s important to adhere to recommended service intervals and use high-quality oil. Common issues reported by owners include occasional turbocharger problems and carbon buildup on the intake valves. On the used car market, the DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 THP remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and affordable open-top car. Its unique design and engaging driving experience continue to appeal to a wide range of drivers.
