Citroen Unveils New 240HP 3.0 HDi V6 Diesel for C5 and C6 Range

High-efficiency diesel engines are the solution to near-term CO2 taxation and fuel efficiency rules for Europe, and the French carmaker Citroen doesn't want to be left behind. Accordingly, it has just updated its diesel engine to a new 240hp (179kW), 3.0HDi for its C5 and C6 models.

The updated engine features a new, third-generation direct injection / common rail system. That power rating, humble as it may seem alongside today's V8, V6 and even turbo four-cylinder offerings, is the highest power output ever for a production Citroen engine, according to the company. With the new powertrain and a six-speed automatic gearbox, the C5 and C6 can accelerate from standstill to 100km/h (62mph) in 7.9 and 8.5 seconds respectively. But despite the jump in power - 32hp (24kW) better than the 208hp (155kW) 2.7L unit it replaces - the engine is also about 15% more efficient.

Depending on the application, the engine is actually up to 17% more fuel efficient. Both C5 and C6 average 31mpg US in the combined cycle, a 13% improvement for the C5 and a 17% improvement for the C6. Emissions were cut at similar rates, down to 195g/km for both cars. Particulate matter is trapped by a new Diesel Particulate Filter System (DPFS).

The engine will make its retail debut later this summer, more than a year ahead of the 2011 Euro V emissions mandates with which it complies.