Citroën C-Crosser SUV: First Look

Motoring Channel Staff - 27/Oct/2006

Paris, France — French car marques Peugeot and Citroën have unveiled their new SUV models, hoping to capitalise on the world-wide fascination for the AWD genre. Developed as part of the cooperation agreement between Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and PSA Peugeot Citroën, the new SUVs will be marketed by the Peugeot and Citroën brands from July 2007, powered exclusively with HDi diesel engines. 

The PSA Peugeot Citroën alliance says the sales target of 30,000 units a year will enable the Group to become a major player in a segment with high growth prospects in Europe.

The SUV segment was a niche market in Europe in the early 90s, but since then sales have risen significantly and continuously. Four-wheel drive vehicles now account for 6% of the passenger vehicle market in Europe, with sales of more than 1 million units in 2005, making them a segment of great interest to car makers.

The French and Japanese groups decided in 2005 to join forces and work on an SUV-type 4WD vehicle platform already under development at Mitsubishi. The agreement concerned adapting this platform for the Peugeot and Citroën makes, and was concluded on a "win-win" basis which was clearly advantageous for both partners.

PSA Peugeot Citroën gains access to 4WD technology enabling it to market a new product range in the European SUV market, while Mitsubishi Motors recuperates on its investment through higher sales.

The Vehicles:

The sense of safety and the possibility of travelling off the beaten path that come with a 4WD combined with the driving pleasure of a saloon are what the French car makers hope will entice new customers.

Mitsubishi Motors provides the new platform based on its renowned technical expertise in 4WD vehicles, while PSA Peugeot Citroën took part in developing and adapting its SUVs, as can be seen by the distinctively French styling, and also regarding different running gear. Brakes, steering, suspension, rear axles and tyres have all been reworked and adjusted to ensure the highest levels of comfort and road behaviour, compliant with the requirements of the PSA Peugeot Citroën Group in this area.

Citroën C-Crosser

Citroën has announced first details of its exciting new Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), that is set to add an extra dimension to the French manufacturer’s range when it goes on sale in Europe from summer 2007. The versatile Citroën C-Crosser boasts four-wheel drive capability, exceptional levels of space and comfort, as well as an advanced, fuel efficient HDi diesel engine equipped with environmentally-friendly Diesel Particulate Filter System.

Taking its name from the four-wheel drive concept car that Citroën first displayed at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show, the new C-Crosser’s elegant proportions (4.64m long, 1.81m wide and 1.73m high including roof bars) and powerfully sculpted design lines envelop sufficient interior space to seat up to seven passengers.

Immediately catching the eye, the C-Crosser’s robust looks are fronted by the dominant chevrons that stretch across the bonnet into the streamlined front headlamps, ensuring that it is instantly recognisable as a Citroën.

The C-Crosser will be available with Citroën’s impressive, new generation 115kW (156hp) 2.2HDi engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Capable of producing 380Nm of torque this dieselpowerplant also boasts impressive green credentials, offering low fuel consumption, the ability to run on 30% bio-diesel and a Diesel Particulate Filter System that reduces particle emissions to virtually immeasurable levels.

With the C-Crosser’s integral transmission, drivers have a choice of three settings, dependent on road conditions and driving style: two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive and a lock setting designed for low-grip conditions. Ensuring an optimum blend of comfort, road holding and off-road capability, Citroën’s new SUV is equipped with MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, combined with 18-inch Michelin tyres for added grip.

Occupants will also benefit from the easily reconfigured second and third row of seats, which can be folded away quickly and effortlessly to provide a flat floor and vast load space. The rear two seats can be completely hidden away under the floor, while the second row of seating, which slides to offer greater leg room or boot space, features a 60:40 split/fold function that is operated via electric controls in the boot. 

Related articles:

- Citroën C6 (2006)
- Citroën C-Métisse (concept)