Citroën C4 Aircross: Breath of fresh air

Lily

B.R
Staff member
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It was just a few months ago that we drove the new CLS63 AMG in Dubai and were totally bowled over by its aggressive looks, sheer power and superb handling. Although we are yet to drive the lesser powered CLS500, we don't expect it to be anywhere near exciting as its AMG-tuned big brother.

However, this is exactly the perception that German tuner Kicherer seeks to change with its Edition Black version of the CLS500. Clothed in matte black foil and riding on custom-made 20in RS-1 forged wheels, the Edition Black also gets sportier chassis settings.

And to match these with more power, Kicherer has remapped the ECU of the 4.7-litre V8 motor to bump up output to a more acceptable 440bhp and 630Nm of torque.

Finally, the brakes have also been upgraded featuring steel flex lines and a custom Power Convertor system that improves stopping power.

Renault is reviving the Raider badge with a limited run ofRS Clios.

Last used on the 5 GT Turbos in the early Nineties, the exclusive tag will appear on 50 examples of the hot hatch the French carmaker is bringing out.

The Clio Renaultsport 200 Raider is finished in special matte finish available in two colours, Stealth Grey or Diavolo Red, contrasted by a gloss black roof, side mirrors, front blade, the rear spoiler and diffuser.

It also features gloss black ‘Interlagos' 18in alloys shod with Bridgestone RE 050A rubbers, the same as in the record-breaking Megane Renaultsport 265 Trophy.

If for nothing else, we love Citroëns for the way they look.So, as much as we hate crossovers, we couldn't help but take note when Citroën announced its new compact SUV, the C4 Aircross.

Drawing heavily from the lines of the gorgeous Hypnos concept unveiled at the 2008 Paris motor show, we must admit the Aircross is without doubt one of the best looking CUVs around.

Right from the vertical LEDs on either side of the front bumper to the sculpted character line that defines the profile, it's a blend of good looks and ruggedness.

And it's not all show and no go. The Aircross range comes with four engine choices, two of them diesels. While the diesels will all be available in both two- and four-wheel drive versions, in Europe the 113bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine drives just the front wheels viaa five-speed stick shift.

However, for the rest of the world, there's a 2.0-litre petrol-engined version with both two and four-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission option.

4,340mm

The Aircross is not just a fatter C4, it's a proper compact SUV with peppy engines and AWD capability
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