As the debate about vehicle affordability rages, manufacturers and distributors are adding maintenance and warranty benefits to their deals. The latest to do so is Citroën South Africa, which has increased its warranty from one to three years.
As the debate about vehicle affordability rages, manufacturers and distributors are adding maintenance and warranty benefits to their deals. The latest to do so is Citroën South Africa, who has increased its warranty from one to three years.
All new Citroëns are now covered by a three-year or 100 000 km factory warranty. Previously, a warranty of one year was valid for new Citroën models sold in South Africa.
Derek Bromfield, Citroën SA’s chief executive, says fixed-cost motoring is a priority when purchasing a new car. “By offering Citroën owners a full factory warranty for three years or 100 000 km we show our confidence in the products we have brought to this market, while the maintenance plans keep the cost of ownership at very competitive levels,” said Bromfield.
For the range-topping C5 a three-year/100 000 km maintenance plan is also standard, while all Picasso models come with a similar plan valid for two years or 60 000 km included in the price of the vehicle.
All Citroëns are covered by a year-long Auto Assist membership contract, ensuring roadside support for breakdowns, repairs and towing services.
According to the company, South Africa is the only country where new Citroëns are covered by a three-year/100 000 km warranty.
There is a guarantee of three years on the paintwork, as well as 12 years against corrosion. Service intervals on all the smaller models are 20 000 km, while the C5 only requires servicing every 30 000 km.
Citroën also confirmed that it will be bringing the C3 Pluriel “multi-car” and a 1,4-litre diesel derivative of the C3 to South Africa later this year.
A passenger version of the Berlingo 2 panel van is also planned for this year, while the C2 hatchback, particularly the VTR version, will follow in 2004. According to Citroën, the C2, powered by a 90kW 1,6 litre engine, has a 0-100km/h sprint time of around nine seconds and a top speed of more than 190 km/h.