The Citroën DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 THP (165 hp) S&S, produced from 2014 to 2015, represents a stylish and relatively potent offering within the DS 3 Cabriolet range. Positioned as a mid-range to upper-mid-range trim, it combined the appeal of a convertible with a turbocharged petrol engine designed to deliver a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. This variant was part of the second phase (Phase II) of the DS 3 model, which brought styling updates and refinements to the original platform. The DS 3, and subsequently the DS 3 Cabrio, were key models in Citroën’s attempt to establish a more premium and design-focused brand identity, separate from its mainstream offerings.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroën |
| Model | DS3 |
| Generation | DS 3 (Phase II, 2014) Cabrio |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 THP (165 Hp) S&S |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 218 km/h (135.46 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 141.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 206 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 165 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 103.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1400 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5GZ EP6FDT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1165-1197 kg (2568.39 – 2638.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 433-465 kg (954.6 – 1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 245 l (8.65 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1150 kg (2535.32 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 | 2464 mm (97.01 in.) |
| Front track | 1465-1468 mm (57.68 – 57.8 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1467-1471 mm (57.76 – 57.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 824 mm (32.44 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 660 mm (25.98 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.2-10.4 m (33.46 – 34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/55 R16; 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 THP 165 S&S is the EP6FDT engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. This engine is part of the Prince engine family, co-developed by PSA Peugeot Citroën and BMW. The ‘THP’ designation stands for Turbo High Pressure, indicating the use of a turbocharger and direct fuel injection. The engine code ‘5GZ’ is specific to certain DS 3 variants. Direct injection allows for precise fuel delivery, improving efficiency and power output. The engine utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger, which helps to reduce turbo lag and improve responsiveness. The Start & Stop (S&S) system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, further enhancing fuel economy. The engine’s 16 valves are operated by a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing drivers with full control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 165 hp output, coupled with 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque available from 1400 rpm, provided the DS 3 Cabrio with a noticeably more spirited driving experience than lower-powered versions. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 7.9 seconds, making it competitive within its segment. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, but the engine remained relatively tractable at lower speeds. The 6-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts, although the gear ratios were tuned more for fuel efficiency than outright performance. Compared to the 1.6 e-HDi diesel variants, the THP offered a more responsive and engaging driving experience, albeit with slightly higher fuel consumption. The Cabriolet body style did introduce a slight degree of chassis flex compared to the hardtop DS 3, but it was generally well-controlled.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 THP 165 S&S Cabrio typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and electric windows. Higher trim levels added features like automatic climate control, leather upholstery, parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior design was characterized by a sporty and modern aesthetic, with unique dashboard trim and seat upholstery options. Citroën offered a range of personalization options for the DS 3, allowing customers to customize the exterior and interior to their preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 3 Cabrio utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an elastic beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The suspension was tuned to provide a comfortable ride, but it could feel slightly firm on rough road surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 THP 165 S&S was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, engaging driving experience, and relatively fuel-efficient engine. However, some critics noted the slightly compromised practicality of the Cabriolet body style and the potential for chassis flex. Compared to other small convertibles on the market, the DS 3 offered a unique blend of French flair and performance. The THP engine offered a better balance of performance and economy than the lower-powered petrol engines, but it was more expensive than the diesel options.
Legacy
The 1.6 THP engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly if not regularly driven on longer journeys. Regular servicing and the use of quality fuel are essential to prevent this issue. The DS 3 Cabrio 1.6 THP 165 S&S remains a relatively popular choice on the used car market, appealing to buyers looking for a stylish and affordable convertible. Its distinctive design and engaging driving experience continue to make it a desirable option for those seeking a small, fun-to-drive car.
