Citroen C3 Pluriel
by Nick Hull

Originally unveiled at Frankfurt Show in 1999 as a concept model, the C3 Pluriel has astounded many visitors to Paris Motor Show for the sheer audacity of putting such a challenging multi-variable fabric roof concept into production. Many concept cars have proposed this type of affordable cabrio-into-pick-up format but none have actually been launched - until now. PSA Group is embracing soft-top niche models like no other manufacturer in Europe with the 206CC, 307CC and C3 Pluriel all competing in the small cabrio market, yet each of them takes a completely different concept and none of them share any visible components.

Indeed, what’s most remarkable about the Pluriel is how few parts it shares with the sister C3 hatchback. While it shares the convex waistline and arched roof character of the original C3, every exterior panel is new. The bonnet and front screen are more curved, with new headlamps mounted higher in the fender, and the large C3 grille deleted. The doors are longer, with a crisper side section and black door protector mounted lower down at the base, while at the rear the white-look rear taillamps pick up the line of the curved roof arches. Front and rear bumpers are also unique to the Pluriel. Surprisingly, the Pluriel is even 30mm taller than the C3 hatchback.

The inherently cute character of the C3 is further developed with a new front face design. Its benign, closed mouth expression has some nice details such as the more animated ‘wavy line’ headlamps housing LED-type indicator lamps and the bolder bumper graphics. The A-pillar also dives down to meet the arched waistline in a much neater treatment than on the original C3.

At the rear, the tailgate is split with an opening glass upper and dropping lower tailboard. The most ingenious part is how the combined fabric roof cartridge, glass rear window and parcel shelf form a combined module which can be manually unlocked and rotated to store under the boot floor – very clever.

Interestingly, while the Peugeot 206CC disguises its soft-top look with a body-colour roof, the Pluriel’s 2-tone colour treatment of the body and arches deliberately accentuates its potential as an open fun car. Painted in anthracite or silver depending on body colour, these arches can be unlocked at front and rear to disconnect them entirely from the structure. The arches are made from aluminium, each weighing 11.5kg, and can be stored at home.

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