CITROEN brings a radical new alternative to the small car market with the world debut of the C3 Pluriel at the 2002 Paris Motor Show.

Sharing the funky design and innovation of the C3, and the concept car upon which it is based, the C3 Pluriel introduces a new dimension to the small car sector, with its ability to morph from a four-seater saloon into several other configurations.

At the touch of a button the full length, full width sunroof of the C3 Pluriel Saloon can be opened to eight set positions, while the absence of centre pillars means that the four electric windows can be lowered to create an open sided vehicle the C3 Pluriel Panoramic. The sunroof and rear window can then be neatly retracted under the boot floor to create an open top vehicle the C3 Pluriel Cabriolet.

Remove the side pillars to create the C3 Pluriel Spider, or open the boot lid downwards, fold the rear seats flat and create the C3 Pluriel Spider Pick-up, with a useful flat space for loading and carrying.

With a style inspired by the Citron C3 supermini, the Pluriel boasts curvy, funky looks, both outside and in.

It offers generous interior space, automatic operation of the headlamps and wipers, management of the air conditioning and airflow, and deactivation of the rear window heater have been introduced.

The car will feature a single trim level and a choice of two petrol engines, a 75hp 1.4i unit and a 110hp 1.6i 16V version, the

latter equipped with Citron's 'SensoDrive' gearbox. Variable-assistance power steering will ensure pinsharp control.

Four airbags and seatbelts fitted with pretensioners and force limiters combine with a specially stiffened body shell, reinforced windscreen pillars plus strengthened seat backs and headrests to help the Pluriel perform as well as a saloon in the event of an impact or rollover.