Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | DS3 |
| Generation | DS 3 (Phase II, 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 e-HDi (90 Hp) ETG |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.5 l/100 km (67.2 US mpg, 80.7 UK mpg, 28.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 211 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 9HP DV6DTED |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1090 kg (2403.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1609 kg (3547.24 lbs.) |
| Max load | 519 kg (1144.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 980 l (34.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 46 l (12.15 US gal | 10.12 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| 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 | 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 | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Citroen DS 3 1.6 e-HDi 90 Hp ETG, produced from 2014 to 2015, represents a significant variant within the second phase (Phase II) of the DS 3 model range. Positioned as an entry-level diesel option, it aimed to provide fuel efficiency and lower running costs within the stylish and distinctive DS 3 hatchback. This version utilized Citroen’s e-HDi technology, combining a diesel engine with stop-start functionality, paired with the ETG (Efficient Tronic Gearbox) automated manual transmission. It was part of the broader DS 3 family built on the PF1 platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform shared with Peugeot and Fiat vehicles.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this DS 3 variant is the 1.6-liter (1560cc) DV6DTED engine, a member of the PSA Group’s (Peugeot Citroen) well-established diesel family. This engine, identified by the 9HP engine code, features a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine utilizes four cylinders in an inline configuration, with a bore of 75mm and a stroke of 88.3mm. The e-HDi system incorporates a Start & Stop function, automatically shutting off the engine when idling to conserve fuel. The ETG (Efficient Tronic Gearbox) is a six-speed automated manual transmission. It’s essentially a conventional manual gearbox, but with actuators controlling the clutch and gear changes, offering a degree of automation without the full complexity (and cost) of a traditional torque-converter automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The 90 hp output and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque, combined with the ETG transmission, resulted in a driving experience focused on fuel economy rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.7 seconds, and top speed was 179 km/h (111.23 mph). The ETG transmission, while improving convenience, wasn’t known for its smoothness or speed of shifts compared to a traditional automatic or a skilled manual driver. Gear changes could be somewhat jerky, particularly at lower speeds. The engine provided adequate power for everyday driving, but overtaking maneuvers required planning. The relatively low kerb weight of 1090 kg (2403.04 lbs) helped mitigate the modest power output.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 e-HDi 90 Hp ETG typically sat towards the lower end of the DS 3 range. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if not luxurious, design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, parking sensors, and Citroen’s eTouch emergency assistance system. Higher trim levels, such as Sport or Chic, added features like automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and upgraded interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 3 featured a McPherson strut front suspension and an elastic beam rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between comfort and handling. Front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. Electric power steering provided light and easy steering, suitable for urban driving. The suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, but body roll was noticeable during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 3 1.6 e-HDi 90 Hp ETG was generally well-received for its fuel efficiency and stylish design. Critics praised its low running costs and practicality, but the ETG transmission drew criticism for its sometimes hesitant and jerky shifts. Compared to the more powerful DS 3 variants, such as the 1.6 THP petrol engine or the 2.0-liter BlueHDi diesel, this version offered significantly less performance. However, it was more affordable to purchase and operate. Against competitors like the Mini Cooper and Audi A1, the DS 3 offered a distinctive alternative with a strong focus on value.
Legacy
The 1.6 e-HDi engine proved to be relatively reliable, although the ETG transmission could be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Regular servicing, including fluid changes, is crucial for longevity. In the used car market, this variant represents an affordable entry point into DS 3 ownership. Its fuel efficiency and low running costs continue to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and stylish hatchback. While not the most exciting DS 3 variant, it remains a viable option for those prioritizing economy and affordability.
