Citroen Goes To Extremes In Frankfurt
Published: 17th September 2003
Raring to go, and seen in its definitive rally-going form for the first time in Frankfurt, is the C2 Super 1600, demonstrating Citroen’s commitment to motor sports. The Xsara WRC, which is also at the show, has already set the rallying world alight in 2003, its first full year in the World Rally Championship, and currently sits equal first in the manufacturer’s table with three wins, and is second in the driver’s championship. Now, the 155hp pocket powerhouse that is the C2 Super 1600 is ready to compete in rallies from next year.
The stunning C-Airdream 2+2 coupe concept, with its sleek, futuristic design, vast panoramic sunroof and luxurious interior, will also be making an appearance. Thanks to its drive-by-wire design, gone are the traditional pedals and gearlever to be replaced by a fixed central hub and steering wheel mounted controls. And ensuring top-class handling, the technically advanced C-Airdream features variable-ratio electric steering and a vehicle dynamics controller.
Shown as a concept at the last Frankfurt Show, the 235hp ‘C5 by Carlsson’ returns in production-ready form. Built by German tuning and modification specialists, Carlsson, this luxurious and high performance version of the C5 Estate is set to go on sale in selected European markets, featuring a substantially re-engineered engine and numerous styling changes, including 17" alloys, aerodynamic front, side and rear mouldings, twin exhausts and blue/black leather seat trim.
Alongside these eye-catching cars will be a selection of models
from the rest of Citroen’s highly popular range, including
the just-launched, 5-cars-in-1 C3 Pluriel, the C8 people-carrier
and models from the Xsara family, which recently broke the two million
sales barrier, all helping to fuel Citroen’s increasing
sales, up 10.7% worldwide in the first half of this year compared
to 2002.
