Citroen has confirmed that the production-ready DS 6WR will make its world debut at the Beijing Motor Show later this month, a crossover that will, initially at least, be made in China for the Chinese market only. WR stands for 'Wild Rubis', the name of the concept car that previewed this model.
Exterior
The DS 6WR is 4.55 metres long, 1.86 metres wide and 1.61 metres tall, which makes it about the same size as the Citroen Picasso, though the wheelbase of 2.73 metres is shorter and, as pictured, it rolls on 19-inch alloy wheels. The aluminium roof rails finish in a dramatic flourish in the D-pillar, while the nose adopts the new DS look debuted on the (China-only) DS 5LS. Xenon headlights are fitted and the daytime running lamps are arranged in a 'tuning-fork' shape. Plenty of chrome adorns the show car and the rear lights take on the now characteristic three-dimensional appearance of other DS models, and they also subtly feature the 'DS' lettering.
Mechanicals
The Citroen DS 6WR will not be available with four-wheel drive. All models will send their power to the front wheels only. However, it appears to come as standard with the PSA Group's 'Grip Control' system, which allows the driver to alter the characteristics of the traction control system to suit the terrain and conditions. For China the DS 6WR can be specified with either 160- or 200hp variants of the turbocharged 1.6-litre THP petrol engine. A six-speed automatic gearbox is also fitted.
Anything else?
Initially, the DS 6WR will be produced in China only, at the Shenzhen plant, where the Citroen DS5 and DS 5LS are currently manufactured. Citroen let slip that yet another locally produced DS model will be revealed in the coming months. So far there are 56 'DS Stores' throughout China.
The Beijing Motor Show opens to the public on April 20.