Citroen has announced the launch of the C3 XTR, an exciting new version of its spacious five-door supermini, which will be coming to the UK this spring.

As well as rugged-looking protective body work and an electrically-operated panoramic glass sunroof, the new model will be packed with useful practical touches such as modular roof bars and a child pack.

Aimed at those who live an active lifestyle and are looking for adventurous styling that reflects this, as well as high levels of practicality, the C3 XTR certainly has plenty of road presence. Besides the black front grille and "aluminium" foglamp surrounds, the chunky black bumpers curve around the front end to integrate with the extended wheel arches and sills, which provide added protection against everyday bumps and minor scrapes.

The stylish modular roof bars can be used to transport items of up to 60kg and, cleverly, can also be fitted transversally, ideal for carrying items such as bikes or canoes.

The seats of the C3 XTR are covered with a specially-resistant fabric, while the 279 litres of loadspace, which can be increased to 1,155 litres with the rear seats folded down, are complemented by the innovative Moduboard system, that separates the boot into convenient compartments.

Citroen's C3 XTR is also fitted with a highly useful child pack, featuring aircraft-style trays on the back of the front seats, a 12V power socket in the rear, and important safety touches such as an additional rear-facing mirror, for keeping an eye on children in the back, and a dashboard-mounted child lock activation/deactivation button. And of course the C3 has already been rated one of Europe's safest superminis by EuroNCAP.

Prices and specifications for the C3 XTR will be announced closer to its on-sale date in the UK, with buyers having a choice of petrol and diesel 16-valve powerplants, while in certain countries it will also be possible to specify a limited slip differential and raised suspension.