Beijing show: Citroen uncovers DS 6WR

CITROEN has released images of its DS 6WR SUV ahead of its official unveiling at next week's Beijing motor show, revealing a stylish design in keeping with the Wild Rubis concept on which it is based.

The DS 6WR marks the first foray into SUV territory for Citroen's DS sub-brand, but don't expect to see the sleek high-riding wagon in local Citroen dealers any time soon, as it is slated for release in China only – for the time being at least.

Citroen describes the SUV as “unique, inspired and emotional, immediately recognisable and exceptionally sophisticated”, and its link to the stunning Wild Rubis concept from last year's Shanghai motor show is clear.

The basic shape of the production-ready 6WR mimics that of the concept, and the front end loses the fake black plastic grille in favour of a more conventional version, albeit with the chrome-finish DS “wings”that connect it to the headlights, a feature first seen on the DS 5LS.

There are chrome flourishes all over the exterior of the car, which is in keeping with other models in the DS-line such as the DS3, DS4 and DS5, with chrome along the side skirting and on the grille, while large aluminium panels feature on the rear of the C-Pillar.

The French-designed, Chinese-built soft-roader measures in at 4550mm long, about 26mm longer than a Ford Kuga, 1860mm wide and 1610mm high, with a 2730mm-long wheelbase.

DS initials are embossed in the side of the tail-lights that feature the now familiar 3D design and the 6WR features a twin exhaust, sculpted tail-gate and 19-inch wheels.

Buyers in China will have a choice of two twin-scroll turbocharged PSA engines, including a 118kW e-THP 160 unit and a more powerful 147kW THP 200 engine matched with a standard six-speed automatic transmission.

The two-wheel drive 6WR will also feature “Grip Control” which the company says “optimises traction” on different types of terrain without the use of a four-wheel drive system. This system also helps reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The DS 6WR will be the third DS-branded model to be built at PSA-Dongfeng's Shenzhen, China plant, following the DS5 hatch and the DS 5LS sedan that was revealed in January.

Earlier this week, incoming PSA chairman Carlos Tavares announced the 2014-2018 “Back in the Race” roadmap that is designed to expedite the French company's recovery from financial issues it has experienced in recent years on the back of a sluggish European economy.

As a part of the new strategy, the development of the DS brand as a premium brand in its own right will be stepped up, while PSA will continue to reposition Peugeot as a more upmarket while leaving Citroen as its entry brand.

It will also cut the number of its model lines down from 45 to 26 by 2020 which will optimise the user of vehicle platforms and reduce development and production costs.

Further measures include tripling production in China with its new partner Dongfeng by 2020, as well as expanding into new territories, including developing markets.