The streets of Rome are filled with small, dinky hatchbacks. Smart Fortwos, Fiat Puntos, Dacia Sanderos, and Aixam Citys line the twisting alleys, tucked in the nooks and crannys next to a plethora of scooters and outdoor restaurant tables. Practicality and affordability seem to be more important than pizazz to the citizens of Rome. So although it is still a hatch, and not nearly as expensive as Italy's supercar options, the flashy Citroen DS3 stands out among the cheap Renault Twingos and Ford Fiestas which populate Rome's stradas.
The chrome horizontal strips, which incorporates the Citroen double-chevron, top a bold blacked-out grille. On either side of this athletic trapezoid intake are two sets of running lights chiseled into the bodywork. Closer to the grille are the more typically shaped circular fog lamps, while a fancier vertical LED strip sits nearer to the front wheels. The shallow indents leading into these sets of lights lend the DS3 an aggressive and more upscale appearance. However, the large headlights above make the Citroen look a bit bug-eyed, and could have been a lot sleeker.
Leading back from the bulging headlights, black mirrors and a black roof cause the white paint to pop. A strong line through the door handles and a crease over the rear wheels add character to otherwise plain side body panels. The chrome oval spanning the bottom of the doors adds a touch of luxury. Finally, the incomplete B-pillar creates a stylish "floating" roof, which is especially impressive since this design element was about 5 years ahead of its time. The floating roof is now a major theme on Lexuses and Nissans.
The rear features sharp, clean looking semi-square taillights, and a large chrome DS logo. The contrasting black roof adds to the sporty design while chrome coated exhaust contributes to the luxurious aura given off by this hatch. Overall, this French, chrome-laden hatchback stands out among the bland super-minis that surround it in Rome, and would stand out most anywhere in the world.
Grade
Front: A-
Back: A
Overall: A
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