virgivaughn: 2013 Citroën DS3 Cabrio: Economical Top-Down Motoring [2012 Paris Auto Show]

One of the most refreshing luxo-minis is getting an open-top derivative: The Citroën DS3—marketed as “anti-retro,” which directly takes aim at BMW’s Mini—will be shown at the upcoming Paris auto shows as the DS3 Cabrio.

Like the Fiat 500C Cabrio, but unlike the Mini convertible, the DS3 Cabrio features fixed B- and C-pillars and a fabric roof that folds down on top of the trunk. The top can be opened in three positions: Half open, fully open, and open-plus-lowered. These positions can be selected at velocities up to 75 mph, a definite advantage over traditional convertibles. Up-level versions of the DS3 Cabrio also feature what Citroën calls the “world’s first three-dimensional LED taillights.” Its trunk is almost twice as big as the Mini’s and bigger than the Cinquecento’s.