The Citroen DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 e-HDi Airdream (90 hp) was a front-wheel-drive, four-seater convertible produced between 2013 and 2014 as part of the first generation (Phase I) DS 3 range. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the Cabrio lineup, it aimed to provide a stylish and fuel-efficient open-top motoring experience. This variant was primarily marketed in Europe, capitalizing on the popularity of small, fashionable city cars. It represented Citroen’s attempt to blend the DS 3’s distinctive design with the appeal of a convertible, offering a more accessible price point than the higher-powered engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | DS3 |
| Generation | DS 3 (Phase I) Cabrio |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 e-HDi Airdream (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 95 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp, 76.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 195.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 9HP DV6DTED |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1175 kg (2590.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1625 kg (3582.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 245 l (8.65 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 46 kg (101.41 lbs.) |
| Length | 3948 mm (155.43 in.) |
| Width | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Height | 1458-1483 mm (57.4 – 58.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2452 mm (96.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1465-1468 mm (57.68 – 57.8 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1467-1471 mm (57.76 – 57.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.2-10.4 m (33.46 – 34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/55 R16; 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 e-HDi Airdream utilized the PSA Group’s DV6DTED engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, identified by the code 9HP, was a common sight in various Citroen and Peugeot models. It featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The ‘e-HDi’ designation indicated the inclusion of Stop & Start technology, designed to reduce fuel consumption in urban driving conditions. The engine employed a diesel common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at high pressure for optimized combustion. The valvetrain consisted of two overhead camshafts (DOHC) operating 16 valves. The 90 hp output was achieved at 4000 rpm, while peak torque of 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) was available from just 1750 rpm, providing good low-end responsiveness. The engine was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 e-HDi 90 hp engine in the DS 3 Cabrio offered a practical, rather than sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 11.8 seconds, which was noticeably slower than the petrol-powered variants or the higher-output diesel options. However, the strong low-end torque made it well-suited for city driving and overtaking maneuvers at moderate speeds. The five-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing adequate spacing between gears. The Cabriolet body style added some weight compared to the standard hatchback, slightly impacting performance. While not a performance-oriented car, the 1.6 e-HDi offered a comfortable and refined ride, particularly on smoother roads. The steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 e-HDi Airdream typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as driver and passenger airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a choice of color schemes. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The DS 3 was known for its customization options, allowing buyers to personalize their cars with a wide range of exterior colors, roof designs, and interior trim elements.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 3 Cabrio utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an elastic beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure for this entry-level variant. Electric power steering was standard, providing light and precise steering feel. The chassis was reinforced to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, ensuring adequate structural rigidity. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 e-HDi Airdream was generally well-received by critics for its stylish design, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the 90 hp engine felt underpowered, particularly with the added weight of the Cabriolet body style. Compared to the petrol-powered DS 3 models, the diesel variant offered significantly better fuel economy but less outright performance. The 1.6 e-HDi was positioned as a more economical alternative to the higher-output diesel and petrol engines, appealing to buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and low running costs. Its main competitors included the Fiat 500C, the Mini Convertible, and the Renault Wind.
Legacy
The 1.6 e-HDi engine proved to be a reliable and durable unit, with many examples still on the road today. The DV6 engine family, in general, has a good reputation for longevity, provided it is properly maintained. Common issues include potential problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if the car is primarily used for short journeys, and occasional issues with the turbocharger. The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 e-HDi Airdream remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a stylish and fuel-efficient open-top car. Its distinctive design and relatively low running costs continue to appeal to a wide range of drivers.
