AUSTRALIA: Citroen taking diesels up-market
Author: just-auto.com editorial team | 1 February 2008
Citroen's Australian distributor Ateco Automotive is expanding its 'down under' diesel range with the launch of the C4 HDi two-litre automatic, taking, it said, diesel performance into the luxury market sector.
"The arrival of this new variant of the Citroën C4 range is a clear illustration of how the diesel car market in Australia is maturing," said Miles Williams, general manager for Citroën in Australia.
"Until now diesel sales have been primarily driven by their economy and environmental benefits and, therefore, the top sellers have been versions that optimise the price equation.
However, starting with the launch of the C6, our range-topping super-luxury model, in which the majority of sales are diesel powered, we are now seeing increasing demand for the top trim and equipment variants to be diesel powered, with owners wishing to combine comfort with economy."
Following the launch of the C4 Picasso, in which the majority of sales are for the 100kW 2.0 litre turbo diesel with the optional six speed automatic gearbox, Citroën Australia is now offering the same drive train in the C4 hatchback with the highest trim and equipment level.
The new model potentially has a range of 1,000 km [600 miles] on open road journeys in Australia, Ateco said.
"The new diesel C4 HDi 2.0 provides a natural compliment for the existing diesel variant, the C4 HDI EGS [automated manual]," added Williams. "[That model], which arrives [at the Brisbane motor show] with a two month waiting list, such is its popularity, is fully optimised to provided the best running costs."
"The new [conventional automatic] model will sit at the other end of the C4 range for owners who want to combine the unquestionable advantages of a diesel with a full featured and equipped car. It is a clear example of the market shift seen in Europe, where owners wish to own a smaller, more economical and clearer car, but at the same time not give up features, equipment and performance."
The HDi 2.0 automatic costs $A35,990 plus on road costs in Australia.
Sectors: Retailing, marketing & distribution, Vehicle manufacturers, Vehicle markets
Companies: Citroen
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