Citroen C6 makes Oz debut

CITROEN’S C6 luxury car will be priced around $90,000 when it reaches the Australian market around June.

Unveiled at the Australian International Motor Show last week, the C6 will be offered with two models – a 2.7-litre twin-turbo HDi diesel and 3.0-litre petrol V6.

According to Citroen Australia general manager Miles Williams, the diesel represents the C6’s best opportunity in Australia as the volume model, given the wider buyer appreciation of the technology.

Seen on select Jaguar and Land Rover models, the turbo-diesel engine develops 150kW of power and 400Nm of torque. In contrast, the petrol 3.0-litre V6 pumps out 155kW and 290Nm. Both engines will be mated to six-speed sequential automatics.

Recapturing the spirit of Citroen design that delivered such acclaimed vehicles as the DS21 and SM coupe, the C6 has a long bonnet with short rear boot, aerodynamic lines and stunning silhouette reminiscent of classic large Citroens of the past.

The silhouette is sleek with striking alloys, while a concave rear window and recessed speed-sensitive automatic air deflector add to a dramatic visual feast.

The glass area incorporates a large windscreen and frameless doors. At the front is the marque’s signature chrome-plated double chevron flanked by imposing clear-lens high-intensity discharge headlights.

Apart from styling, safety is a strong point. The C6 has also become the first car in the world to be awarded a maximum four-star European NCAP pedestrian safety rating and maximum five-star for occupant protection, making it one of the safest cars in the world.

The bonnet automatically pops up in the event of a collision with a pedestrian, creating a cushioning effect between the engine and bonnet.

The C6 uses the latest version of Citroen’s electronic HydraActive 3 suspension with electronic controlled damping and springs said to offer a superb ride and dynamic package.

Even by luxury car standards, the C6 will be exceptionally well-specified. It will include nine airbags, electrically-operated front seats, dual-zone climate control, electric parking brake, heads-up display, an MP3-compatible audio system with colour screen, and automatic headlights and wipers.

The options list is expected to feature navigation, sunroof and rear electric reclining "airline" seats.

Based on the Peugeot 407 platform and claimed to bring new levels of style, technology, space and comfort to the luxury sedan market, the front-drive C6 is both a belated replacement for the XM discontinued here in 2000 and Citroen’s answer to BMW’s 5 Series.

Alongside it on the Citroen stand, the C4 HDi turbo-diesel made its Melbourne show debut following its January release, as did the facelifted C2 hatch, while Citroen’s facelifted C3 small car also made a surprise appearance.