The Citroen DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 VTi Automatic, produced between 2014 and 2015, represents a stylish and accessible entry point into the DS 3 Cabrio range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it combined the distinctive design of the DS 3 with the open-air experience of a convertible. This variant was part of the Phase II refresh of the DS 3, which brought subtle styling updates and improvements to the interior. Built on the PF1 platform (shared with the Peugeot 208 and first-generation Opel/Vauxhall Corsa), the DS 3 aimed to blend French flair with practicality, targeting a younger, fashion-conscious demographic. The 1.6 VTi Automatic model offered a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate performance, making it a popular choice for urban driving and weekend getaways.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | DS3 |
| Generation | DS 3 (Phase II, 2014) Cabrio |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 VTi (120 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| 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 | 9.4 kg/Hp, 105.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm, 141.2 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1133-1171 kg (2497.84 – 2581.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs.) |
| Max load | 439-477 kg (967.83 – 1051.6 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 | 2464 mm (97.01 in.) |
| Front track | 1465-1469 mm (57.68 – 57.83 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 | 10.2-10.4 m (33.46 – 34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 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 |
| Tires size | 195/55 R16; 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 VTi Automatic is powered by the PSA Group’s 5FS EP6C engine, a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection and is known for its relatively simple design and reliability. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine’s architecture is relatively conventional, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and four valves per cylinder. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission. While not the most modern transmission, it provided smooth shifts and ease of use, particularly appealing to drivers prioritizing comfort over performance. The four-speed automatic was chosen for its cost-effectiveness and suitability for the engine’s torque curve.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 VTi Automatic DS 3 Cabrio offers a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.4 seconds, and the top speed is 118 mph. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, lacks the responsiveness and efficiency of more modern gearboxes. Gear ratios are spaced to prioritize fuel economy and drivability in urban environments. Compared to the manual version of the same engine, the automatic suffers a slight performance penalty due to the transmission’s inherent losses. It also feels less engaging to drive. Compared to the more powerful DS 3 models, such as those equipped with the 1.6 THP turbocharged engine, the 1.6 VTi Automatic feels noticeably slower, especially during overtaking maneuvers. However, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 VTi Automatic typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, a CD stereo with USB connectivity, electric front windows, and remote central locking. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and front airbags. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, automatic headlights and wipers, a panoramic sunroof (a key feature of the Cabrio), and a more advanced infotainment system. The interior design was characterized by a sporty and modern aesthetic, with unique dashboard detailing and customizable interior trim options. The Cabrio models, in general, featured a power-operated soft top that could be retracted electronically.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 VTi Automatic utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and an elastic beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, resulting in a relatively soft ride quality. The Cabrio models feature reinforced chassis components to compensate for the loss of structural rigidity due to the open-top design.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 VTi Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a stylish and affordable convertible. However, the four-speed automatic transmission was often criticized for its lack of sophistication and impact on fuel economy. Compared to other small convertibles on the market, the DS 3 offered a unique blend of French design and practicality. The 1.6 VTi engine provided reasonable fuel economy, averaging around 35.1 US mpg in combined driving, but it wasn’t as efficient as the diesel options available in the DS 3 range. Reliability was generally good, with the 1.6 VTi engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Citroen DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 VTi Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly among buyers seeking a stylish and affordable convertible. The 1.6 VTi engine is known for its reliability, and maintenance costs are generally reasonable. While the four-speed automatic transmission is dated, it is relatively simple to repair. The DS 3 Cabrio’s distinctive design and open-top experience continue to appeal to a wide range of buyers. The car represents a significant step in Citroen’s attempt to reposition itself as a more premium and design-focused brand.
