Drivers keen to check out the various car parts on the new Citroen DS3 in detail may be impressed with the manufacturer’s latest online development.

The group has produced a visual platform capable of superimposing virtual objects on real backgrounds.

As a result, people can log onto Citroen’s DS3 micro-site, print out interactive pages and use their webcam to experience the auto in 3D.

Users will be able to view the car from every angle and take it for a test drive along a race track featuring various obstacles.

It is also possible to change the colour of the vehicle with a wave of the hand.

Citroen previously unveiled similar technology for the C3 Picasso and explained the success of the project led it to develop the new DS3 online technology.

Meanwhile, the model that features in the manufacturer’s latest internet venture is due to make its UK debut at Top Gear Live at the MPH Prestige & Performance Motor Show next month.

Auto enthusiasts who attend the 2009 Classic Motor Show will be treated to a rare sight, it has been claimed.

Organisers have revealed the event is to feature four prototype Citroen models – three of which have never been seen in Britain before.

The display has been arranged to mark the manufacturer’s 90th anniversary.

Usually kept at the carmaker’s Conservatoire in Paris, the prototypes being exhibited are a 1936 TPV or 2CV, a 1956 C-10, a 1960s C-60 and the 1971 Projet L.

A number of Citroen auto clubs and the manufacturer’s UK division have been responsible for organising the display.

The Classic Motor Show is scheduled to take place at the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre between November 13th and 15th and the event team has promised there will be plenty of other treats in store for people who attend.

Previously, it was announced this year’s gathering is to feature some autos that may be younger than the typical models usually associated with the bash.

Citroen’s new DS3 is set to be unveiled at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show and will boast a range of contemporary features and car parts.

Described by the car manufacturer as "a radical take on the compact urban vehicle", the model will feature a colour-contrasted "floating roof", as well as sleek LED lights and a shark fin pillar.

"Inside, the atmosphere in the cabin is one of class and contemporary elegance with an exceptional attention to detail and an extensive use of luxury materials such as leather and chrome," Citroen noted.

Motorists have a choice of six dashboard finishes, as well as a variety of coloured fabrics and leathers.

Even the car’s gear stick and key fob can be customised.

In related news, the Citroen C3 Picasso was named as the supermini MPV of the year at the Auto Express New Car Awards earlier this month.

The car is said to have impressed judges with its funky design and intelligent layout.

Citroen car parts will continue being used for the FIA World Rally Championship.

The manufacturer said it plans to enter the competition for the next two years, having won five drivers’ titles and 58 victories overall.

Olivier Quesnel is director of Citroen Racing and said it was crucial the group keeps expressing itself via the sport.

"The FIA World Rally Championship, where the costs remain contained, is an excellent promotional vehicle for the company," he added.

Meanwhile, Citroen car parts were in the news earlier this month when it was revealed that each C5 model will come equipped with a colour satellite navigation system as standard.

The VTR+ model is apparently the most popular in the range and has been renamed the VTR+ NAV. The gadget inside has a seven-inch screen, Bluetooth connectivity and live traffic updates with Trafficmaster.

Basic recommended retail price for the 1.8i 16V 127 hp version is £15,547.83, Citroen said.

Vehicle owners who always ensure the car parts under their auto’s bonnet are in good working order may find a model from Citroen can now help their journeys run even more smoothly.

The manufacturer has revealed its C5 VTR+ has been fitted with an extra system in response to demand from companies and individual drivers.

Motorists who purchase the car will find it comes with MyWay satnav as standard.

Owners will receive the service for free and without subscription.

Commenting on the update, the manufacturer said: "Already one of the best-equipped cars in its class, Citroen’s C5 now delivers even more ‘creative technologie’."

MyWay satnav comes with a seven-inch colour screen, voice guidance, up-to-date traffic information, hands-free Bluetooth and European mapping.

The company predicted the inclusion of the system would make the C5 VTR+ even more popular.

Meanwhile, motorists who already own one of the manufacturer’s models – and cannot afford to replace it at the moment – may find they can keep it running smoothly by replacing worn parts with Citroen car spares bought online.

Car spares buyers who replace worn parts to reduce their chances of being involved in an accident may be impressed by Citroen’s latest achievement.

The company has taken the title of Best Vehicle Manufacturer at this year’s Brake Fleet Safety Forum Awards.

According to the carmaker, it puts a lot of effort into trying to prevent collisions and, if a crash is unavoidable, ensuring occupants of its autos are as well-protected as they can be.

It explained incorporating equipment such as head-up displays, lane departure warning systems, laminated safety glass and directional headlamps helps it achieve these goals.

The firm also suggested its Euro Ncap ratings further highlight its strength in this area.

Its C4 received the best possible score for adult protection and the C6 was the first model to achieve both this feat and a top mark for pedestrian safety.

Meanwhile, motorists who already own one of the group’s models may find they can ensure it stays in peak condition by replacing any worn parts with Citroen car spares bought online.