Citroen to Show Convertible at Frankfurt

Special Coverage

Frankfurt Auto Show

Automobiles Citroen’s C5 Airscape concept, headed for a mid-September debut at the Frankfurt auto show, is designed with the weather in mind.

On good days, the car’s retractable hardtop turns the 2-door 4-seater into a convertible. And in inclement conditions, a new “Snow Motion” traction-control system makes sure the vehicle stays planted on the road, the auto maker says.

The concept, believed to give a glimpse of the upcoming C5 sedan expected to bow at next year’s Geneva auto show, is powered by a 208-hp, 2.7L V-6 diesel engine equipped with a particulate filter and capable of running on biodiesel. It is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The powertrain includes Citroen’s UrbanHybrid system that cuts the engine when the vehicle is moving at less than 4 mph (6 km/h) and the driver’s foot is on the brake. It restarts the engine as soon as the brake pedal is released.

The car’s panoramic retractable roof and large windows provide a good view of the outside even when the carbon-fiber top is closed. Inside, fixed-centered steering wheel controls allow the driver to operate the navigation system, radio, cruise control and onboard computer.

Citroen doesn’t detail Snow Motion but says the system, when equipped with winter tires, represents the closest thing to all-wheel drive.