France’s Citroën will travel to this month’s Beijing Motor Show to unveil a performance-focused show car based on the recently-introduced DS 5LS compact sedan.
Dubbed DS 5LS R, the concept is billed as a follow-up to the DS3 Racing and the DS4 Racing hot hatches. It draws on Citroën’s WRC expertise with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that sends 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque to the front wheels via a sequential gearbox controlled by shift paddles.
Upgraded brakes on all four corners and a stiffer chassis keep the extra power in check.
The DS 5LS R is lower and wider than the regular-production sedan it traces its roots to. It is also lighter thanks to the widespread use of lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum.
Visually, Citroën’s latest concept wears an unusually dynamic look thanks to a deep front bumper with a wide air dam and a carbon fiber body kit that runs all around the car. 20-inch alloy wheels and bespoke emblems on the hood and on the trunk lid wrap up the look.
Interior pictures are not available but the automaker promises the sporty treatment continues in the cabin with real carbon fiber trim on the door panels, a stopwatch integrated into the center console and a three-spoke steering wheel. The front passengers are treated to sport seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara.
Stay tuned to Leftlane for live images of the DS 5LS R straight from the Beijing show floor.