What's the news?

Citroen has revealed that it should have a fairly packed stand at the Frankfurt Motor Show that opens tomorrow. Among the exhibitions is the new Grand C4 Picasso, the Cactus concept car that is said to preview the future of Citroen design, a 94mpg Hybrid Air engine and the world debut of the brand's 2014 WTCC entrant.

Citroen Grand C4 Picasso

Following the successful launch of the latest - and bravely designed - C4 Picasso, Citroen plans to unveil its bigger brother at the Frankfurt Motor Show. In an attempt to pick up where its predecessor left off, the Grand C4 Picasso has the most space in its second and third seating row, the largest boot, and the lowest emissions in its class according to Citroen. The love-or-hate-it styling also looks improved on the larger model to these eyes.

Citroen DS range

The DS3 Cabrio Racing makes its debut at the IAA, combining the Citroen Racing expertise found in the hatchback version with the standard DS3 Cabrio. A unique Moondark matte paint finish features on the DS3 Cabrio Racing; as do 19-inch gloss black alloy wheels.

In addition, the Citroen stand will play host to the DS Fauborg Addict - a new trim line for the DS range. Featuring a new deep purple/black 'Whisper' paint finish, the DS Fauborg Addict also comes with DS logos on the roof, which are extended to the cabin ceiling in the DS5 - as well as branded door mirrors and new alloys.

Concept cars

The Citroen Cactus will make its world debut at Frankfurt to showcase a "vision for future C-Line models". Lightweight and aerodynamic styling is said to feature as well as a customisable body, a comfortable and relaxing cabin, and Citroen's Multicity Connect Portal infotainment system. This will be joined by the Wild Rubis concept - previewing a future SUV as well as hinting at design clues for the next generation of DS models.

Engines

As well as displaying new BlueHDi diesel and PureTech petrol engines, Citroen will be showcasing a unit called Hybrid Air. Citroen says that the system is a technological breakthrough, using a combination of air and hydraulics to significantly reduce fuel consumption in urban environments. This system is currently in use in the new C3, giving it a quoted 94mpg economy figure while emitting just 69g/km of CO₂.

Racing cars

The 380hp C-Elysée WTCC will also make its first public appearance at the IAA. The vehicle features the same turbocharged 1.6-litre unit found in the DS3 WRC, and will be piloted by Sebastian Loeb and Yvan Muller as Citroen takes on the WTCC for the first time in 2014.

Anything else?

All this and more can be seen at the Frankfurt Motor Show that runs from 10th-22nd September 2013.

James Giddings - 9 Sep 2013