The Citroen DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 VTi Automatic, produced between 2013 and 2014, represented a stylish and accessible entry point into the DS 3 Cabrio range. Positioned as a fashionable and relatively affordable open-top vehicle, it aimed to capture a segment of the market seeking a blend of French flair and everyday practicality. This variant utilized the 1.6-liter VTi engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, making it geared towards drivers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. It falls within the first generation (Phase I) of the DS 3, built on the PF1 platform shared with the Peugeot 207 and Citroen C3.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | DS3 |
| Generation | DS 3 (Phase I) Cabrio |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp, 104.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 139.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4250 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5FS EP6C |
| 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 | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1145 kg (2524.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs.) |
| Max load | 465 kg (1025.15 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%) | 1150 kg (2535.32 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic 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 | 195/55 R16; 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this DS 3 Cabrio variant is the PSA Group’s 5FS EP6C 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, a member of the Prince engine family developed in collaboration with BMW, features a naturally aspirated configuration and multi-point fuel injection. The engine’s aluminum block and cylinder head contribute to a relatively lightweight design. The 120 horsepower output is achieved at 6000 rpm, while peak torque of 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) arrives at 4250 rpm. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, a somewhat dated unit by modern standards, but offering smooth, if not particularly rapid, gear changes. This transmission was chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, targeting buyers who prioritized convenience over sporty driving dynamics.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 VTi Automatic DS 3 Cabrio delivers a comfortable, rather than exhilarating, driving experience. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, lacks the responsiveness and efficiency of more modern gearboxes. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.4 seconds, and the top speed is 118 mph. The relatively low torque output means the engine needs to be revved to extract the best performance, and the automatic transmission can sometimes feel hesitant during overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 THP (turbocharged) variants or even the diesel options, this version feels noticeably slower. However, its lighter weight compared to some trims contributes to decent handling and a relatively nimble feel in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 VTi Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and front airbags were also standard. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced infotainment system. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, this variant occupied a mid-range position in the DS 3 Cabrio lineup, offering a good balance of features and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 3 Cabrio utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and an elastic beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not as sophisticated as a fully independent rear suspension. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The Cabrio version benefits from reinforced chassis components compared to the standard DS 3 hatchback to compensate for the loss of a fixed roof, maintaining structural rigidity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 VTi Automatic was generally well-received as a stylish and affordable open-top car. Critics praised its distinctive design and comfortable ride, but noted the engine’s lack of outright performance and the dated four-speed automatic transmission. Compared to the more powerful DS 3 variants, it offered lower running costs and a more relaxed driving experience. Fuel economy was respectable for a petrol-powered convertible, averaging around 35.1 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the electrics.
Legacy
The Citroen DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 VTi Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly among buyers seeking a fashionable and affordable convertible. The 1.6 VTi engine, while not the most powerful, is generally reliable and relatively inexpensive to maintain. The four-speed automatic transmission, however, may require more frequent servicing than more modern units. The DS 3 Cabrio helped to establish Citroen’s DS brand as a stylish and premium alternative to mainstream manufacturers, and the 1.6 VTi Automatic variant provided an accessible entry point into this range.
