Citroen confirms Australian Cactus line-up

Citroen Australia has announced it will introduce two drivetrains for Cactus; a turbocharged petrol manual and turbo-diesel semi-automatic.

Due for local launch during the first quarter of 2016, the Cactus will bring with a range of innovative technologies paired to unparalleled customisation and Citroen’s leading 6 year warranty, service and support program.

General Manager for Citroen Australia, John Startari, said the addition of C4 Cactus to the local line-up signals the rebirth of Citroen in Australia.

“The C4 Cactus is the best example of products coming from Citroen in the future; fun, vibrant, customisable, efficient, practical and absolutely unique,” said Startari

“In a market full of same-same styling the C4 Cactus makes a statement and it is one we believe will resonate with Australians.

“Paired with Citroen’s leading 6 year warranty, capped-price servicing and roadside assist program, the Cactus is a vehicle that will appeal to the heart and the head,” said Startari.

Locally, C4 cactus will be offered with two drivetrains, featuring stop-start technology as well as:

• PSA’s highly awarded PureTech 81kW, 205Nm 1.2L turbo-petrol three-cylinder engine paired to a five speed manual transmission or,
• A 68kW, 230Nm 1.6L turbo-diesel paired to a 6 speed semi-automatic transmission.

Drivetrains aside Citroen designers and engineers aimed to develop a vehicle that turns convention on its head, delivering unique solutions to issues surrounding modern motoring.

The response to the brief is captured in five key developments:

• Airbump®, an innovation by CITROËN. Useful, attractive and customisable, this graphic feature enhances vehicle design while protecting the bodywork;
• A fully digital, intuitive interface and airy, connected driving position with controls grouped around a 7-inch touch screen, fitted as standard;
• Wide sofa-style seats at the front;
• Front passenger airbag transferred to the roof (Airbag In Roof technology), an exclusive that creates more room and storage space for the front passenger;
• An optional panoramic glazed roof with advanced heat protection;

While final specification is to be confirmed for Australia, the C4 Cactus is expected to highly specified.

As standard Exclusive petrol models are expected to feature:

• 81kW, 205Nm 1.2 litre turbo petrol PureTech drivetrain with manual transmission;
• 7” Touch Screen with eMyWay Satellite Navigation;
• Reverse camera with rear parking sonar;
• DAB+ Digital Radio with 6 Speakers and ARKAMYS Digital Amplifier;
• Bluetooth connectivity and USB input;
• Automatic Lights & Wipers with Magic Wash;
• Climate control air conditioning;
• Cruise Control & Speed Limiter with Favourite Speed Memory;
• Cornering Fog Lights;
• 17” Bi-tone Cross alloy wheels with 15” Steel spare tyre;
• Tyre pressure monitors;
• Electronic assistants (ABS/EBD/EBA/ESC/HSA);
• Six airbags (front driver, roof passenger, front sides & two curtain);
• Bi-tone leather steering wheel with chrome insert & controls;
• Height adjustable driver’s seat;
• Electric front windows and pop out (6cm) rear windows;
• Electronically adjustable mirrors;
• PLIP with central locking;
• Seatbelt unfastening warning on all seats;
• Piano black roof bars, mirrors, blank rear insert & rear spoiler surround;
• Centre console and armrest with storage;
• Ventilated disc brakes front and drum brakes rear;
• Top box 8.5L storage compartment;
• Black Airbump;
• 12 volt socket and cup holder in cabin;
• Front sun-visors with driver’s courtesy mirror;
• 60/40 split rear seats;
• Guide-me-home lighting, selective unlocking and auto rear wiper in reverse;
• LED Courtesy and Map Lights.

Exclusive diesel models are expected to feature the following over the Exclusive petrol:

• A 68kW, 230Nm 1.6 litre turbo-diesel drivetrain with six-speed semi-automatic;
• “Easy Push” Gear Selector and paddle shifters on steering wheel;
• Aircraft-style manual handbrake;
• Bench seat with armrest.

A variety of optional equipment will be available across both models including; exterior colour, interior trim, panoramic sunroof, coloured bumps (includes front and rear highlights), roof rails, side mirror caps, C-Pillar highlights and wheels.

Final pricing and specification will be available following completion of local evaluation and closer to the models first quarter 2016 introduction.

Written by Alan Zurvas

Alan Zurvas is the founder and editor of Gay Car Boys, Australia's leading LGBTQI+ automotive publication. Before launching GCB in 2008, Alan's automotive writing was published in SameSame.com.au and the Star Observer. With over 16 years of hands-on car reviewing experience, Alan brings an honest, irreverent voice to every review — championing value and innovation over brand loyalty.