Dongfeng Citroën's 1st SUV takes a bow in Guangzhou

Senior management team of Dongfeng Citroën poses next to the newly revealed C3-XR SUV on Nov 20, 2014, at the Guangzhou auto show in the capital city of Guangdong province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Dongfeng Citroën revealed its C3-XR sport-utility vehicle ahead of Auto Guangzhou, with the turbocharged city SUV to launch in the Chinese market on Dec 21.

The joint venture between Dongfeng Motor Corp and French partner PSA Peugeot Citroën is also displaying the C5 Turbo edition, C4L, new C-Quatre, all-new Elysee, all-new Elysee WTCC edition, C4 Aircross at the largest auto show in Southern China.

General manager of Dongfeng Citroën, Chen Xi, said the "C3-XR will be a starter of the company's growth, and help elevate the brand image and the market share," at the show in the capital city of Guangdong province.

The China-made model is set to take center stage at a suggested price as low as 110,000 yuan ($17,990).

The prize-winning 1.6-liter turbo high pressure engine with the smart stop-and-start system is the powerful and fuel efficient combination and the budget choice is the 1.6-liter continue variable valve timing engine.

Its Grip Control system adjusts the car on variable road surfaces and the ARTECH design derives from the CXR concept car. The "C3" in its name indicates the mid-level, while the "XR" is unknown roads.

The 2,655mm-long mid-size SUV is the longest in its field, ensuring an enjoyable journey, and the Citroën Connect infotainment system makes driving a pleasure.

Dongfeng Citroën's latest model C3-XR SUV is displayed at the Guangzhou auto show in the capital city of Guangdong province, Nov 20, 2014. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]