Rip Curl treatment for C4 Cactus

Citroen has released the C4 Cactus Rip Curl Special Edition -- its latest collaboration with the world-famous Australian surf brand – in Europe.

Rip Curl has long had a strong following in France and it's not the first time the French car-maker has produced a surf-themed limited-edition model.

This one could come to Australia though, with Citroen Australia spokesman Tyson Bowen telling motoring.com.au the brand is in discussions with Citroen's Paris HQ about a potential local release.

"There are no firm plans at this stage, but it's something we're looking at and we're talking to the factory about," he said.

Full details of the Rip Curl special – first seen at the Geneva motor show in March -- were announced yesterday in the UK, where it's designed to keep C4 Cactus sales ticking over as it approaches the middle of its life cycle.

However, it's unlikely to be released soon in Australia, where the C4 Cactus only went on sale in March.

The Rip Curled Cactus is more than just a sticker pack, as it brings Citroen's Grip Control electronic traction technology to the C4-based SUV for the first time.

Naturally, it's also fitted with Rip Curl graphics on the wings and rear quarter-lights, along with 17-inch diamond-cut ‘Cross’ alloy wheels with Goodyear 4 seasons Mud+Snow tyres, white roof-rails and door mirrors, orange seatbelts, orange detailing for the speakers and orange-trimmed carpet mats.

Five body colours will be available: Obsidian Black (metallic), Arctic Steel (metallic), Pearl White (pearlescent), Sport Red and Tapenade Grey.

Two engine variants will be available in the UK from June 1, powered by the same 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engines on offer in Australia, where pricing for the standard C4 Cactus starts at $26,990.