Paris - Citroen is introducing this summer a new three-litre diesel engine for the C5 and C6 models with the 240 hp unit replacing the previous 2.7 litre HDi with an output of 208 hp, the French car maker has announced.

The six-speed automatic unit is not only more powerful but is more economical, reducing consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Citroen lists average consumption at
7.4 litres per 100 kilometres.

For the C5 consumption is 15 per cent lower and for the C6 some 17 per cent down compared to the older 2.7-litre engine. CO2 emissions drop to 195 grammes per kilometre compared to the current 223 g/km.

The C6 V6 HDi is selling for 54,180 euros (75,154 dollars). Pricing details for the C5 have not yet been announced. (dpa)