The DS 3 Cabrio 1.2 PureTech (110 hp) Stop&Start Automatic was a front-wheel-drive, open-top variant of the DS 3, produced between 2016 and 2018. Positioned as a stylish and accessible entry point into the DS range, it offered a blend of French design, compact dimensions, and relatively efficient petrol power. This particular configuration aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a fashionable and practical small car with the added enjoyment of open-air motoring. It sat within the broader DS 3 Cabrio lineup, offering a less powerful and more fuel-efficient alternative to the higher-performance PureTech 130 and BlueHDi diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DS |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | 3 Cabrio |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 PureTech (110 Hp) Stop&Start Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 112 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp, 95.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 178.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 1500 rpm (151.2 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HNZ EB2DT |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1150-1193 kg (2535.32 – 2630.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1635 kg (3604.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 442-485 kg (974.44 – 1069.24 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 | 3954 mm (155.67 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 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 | 1465-1469 mm (57.68 – 57.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1467-1471 mm (57.76 – 57.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 830 mm (32.68 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 660 mm (25.98 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.2 PureTech (110 hp) Stop&Start Automatic, launched in 2016, represented DS Automobiles’ attempt to broaden the appeal of its stylish city car. Building upon the success of the original DS 3 hatchback, the Cabrio variant offered an open-top experience without sacrificing the model’s distinctive design. This specific engine and transmission combination was intended to provide a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of driving. It was part of the second generation of the DS 3, based on the PSA Peugeot Citroën PF1 platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), shared with the Peugeot 208 and Citroën DS3.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the DS 3 Cabrio 1.2 PureTech Automatic lies the PSA EB2DT engine, a 1.2-liter, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. This engine, identified by the code HNZ, is a key component of PSA’s PureTech engine family, known for its efficiency and responsiveness. It utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved combustion and reduced emissions. The engine also features a turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing power output. The Stop&Start system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, further improving fuel economy. The engine produces 110 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 205 Nm (151.2 lb-ft) of torque at 1500 rpm. Paired with this engine is an Aisin-sourced six-speed automatic transmission, chosen for its smooth operation and efficiency. This transmission is a conventional torque-converter automatic, offering a comfortable driving experience, but not the sportiness of a dual-clutch transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.2 PureTech Automatic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 10.2 seconds, and the top speed is 116.82 mph. While not particularly quick, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, although it can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, but the engine can feel slightly strained at higher speeds. The Cabrio’s added weight compared to the hatchback version is noticeable, slightly impacting handling and responsiveness. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, resulting in a relaxed cruising experience. Compared to the more powerful PureTech 130 version, this variant offers less exhilarating performance, but it compensates with improved fuel economy and a lower price point.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.2 PureTech Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and power windows. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Available options included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio system, parking sensors, and automatic headlights and wipers. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally offered progressively more luxurious features and styling enhancements. The exterior styling featured distinctive DS design cues, including the “shark fin” pillar and unique LED daytime running lights.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 3 Cabrio utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The Cabrio’s chassis was reinforced compared to the hatchback to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, maintaining structural rigidity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, offering light and precise control. The weight distribution is relatively balanced, contributing to predictable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.2 PureTech Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a stylish and affordable open-top car. Reviewers praised its distinctive design, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some criticized its relatively modest performance and the limited space in the rear seats. Compared to other small convertibles on the market, the DS 3 Cabrio offered a unique blend of French flair and practicality. In terms of fuel economy, it performed competitively with other 1.2-liter petrol engines, achieving around 48 US mpg on the combined cycle. Reliability reports suggest that the PureTech engine is generally reliable, although some owners have reported issues with the timing chain. Compared to the diesel-powered BlueHDi variants, the PureTech offered a smoother and quieter driving experience, but with slightly higher running costs.
Legacy
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.2 PureTech Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a stylish and affordable convertible. The PureTech engine has proven to be relatively durable, although regular maintenance is essential to prevent potential issues. The automatic transmission is generally reliable, but it’s important to check for smooth shifting and any signs of wear. The DS 3 Cabrio’s distinctive design and open-top experience continue to attract buyers, making it a desirable and relatively well-regarded small car. Its blend of style, practicality, and efficiency ensures its continued presence on roads today.
