Citroën has launched updated C4 hatchback and coupé models at this week’s Moscow motor show.
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“Citroën regards the country as a priority market and, following the inauguration of its Russian subsidiary earlier this year, has ambitious growth objectives,” the company said.
It predicts a doubling of its sales in the second half of this year with a further doubling in 2009, helped by the arrival of a new mid-range saloon (likely to be the C4 sedan already sold in China and South America).
Citroen has recently introduced its C-Crosser SUV and new C5 (which launched in Russia at the same time as across Europe) while the new Berlingo Multispace is making its local debut at the show.
Further underlining the importance of the rapidly growing Russian vehicle market – which increased by 57% in 2007 – PSA Peugeot Citroën and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation recently started building a shared plant at Kaluga dedicated to Citroën C4 and C-Crosser SUV vehicle types, which represent a majority share of the Russian market.
Currently the sixth largest global market, it has been predicted that Russia could even overtake Germany as Europe’s biggest car market in the next year.
Updated styling and the introduction of two new petrol engines, co-developed with BMW, were announced for the C4 earlier this year.
The model line has a restyled front end, echoing the newer C5. New alloy wheels and four new body colours accompany the refresh.
An enhanced interior gains new velour or leather upholstery together with special paint finishes and new premium grained trim on the dashboard and door panels. The rev-counter has been repositioned to the central translucent dashboard display so that all driving information is in one place.
Technology upgradesinclude the latest Europe-wide navigation system, MyWay, with high-resolution seven-inch colour screen, Bluetooth and USB connectivity as well as an audio system with built in 10GB hard drive.
Citroën has also added two new 1.6 litre petrol engines co-developed with BMW – the VTi 120 hp (Variable valve lift and Timing Injection) and THP 150 hp (Turbo High Pressure). These new units replace the 1.6i 16V and 2.0i 16V respectively and offer improved fuel economy and lower emissions, whilst new low-rolling-resistance Michelin Energy Saver tyres also improve efficiency.
