Citroën DS3 Cabrio (13 on) - Review

The Citroen DS3 Cabrio is the French firm’s convertible version of its popular stylish hatchback – and it can close its roof at speeds of up to 75mph.

Based on the popular DS3, the new derivative boasts a fabric soft-top which, as well as being operable above the national speed limit in the UK, takes just 16 seconds to close.

Colourful customisation

There is a choice of seven colour schemes available for the paintwork, eight upholstery styles, seven alloy wheel styles and a choice of three roof designs too. This means myriad customisation options for those wishing to drive around in something a little different.

The material the firm has used for the roof has excellent sound insulation properties, meaning acoustics are similar to that of a hatchback when the roof is shut. You don’t suffer any handling penalty for choosing the drop-top either, which is refreshing.

There’s room enough for five occupants inside the car, while boot space is a class-leading 245 litres. There’s even a 60/40 split rear bench, which is unusual for a cabriolet hatchback.

To open the boot there’s an unusual ‘circular’ upward mechanism which allows the plastic tailgate lid to be opened even when parked up close to obstructions.

Low emissions

A trio of petrol engines power the DS3 Cabrio. The lowest-emitting is a 1.2-litre unit which puffs out CO2 at a rate of 112g/km. Its claimed average economy is 58mpg.

Aerodynamically the DS3 Cabrio is identical to the hatchback, which means CO2 emissions can be kept nice and low for fair running costs. The car is 25kg heavier than its tin-top brethren, which really isn’t much of a penalty compared to similar models from other manufacturers.

Strong competition

Obvious competition for the DS3 Cabrio will come in the shape of the MINI Cabriolet and the Fiat 500C, both cars with retro chic and numerous sales to their names. It’s a hotly contested market, with UK buyers having an obvious affinity for convertible cars despite our notoriously tempestuous weather.

So is this new model different enough to carve out its own niche in a market dominated by retro-focused convertibles? Read on for our full Citroen DS3 Cabrio review to find out.