The new C3 is a fun little car - cheery, characterful and French. And, like a lot of French things, it isn't cheap. You won't be buying this with your head but I don't think Citroen is expecting unemotional purchasers to darken its doors. You have to want it - you're not looking for startling performance figures or exceptional value, you're looking for something out of the ordinary.
Pros Great looks Fun engine Terrific ride
Cons Lack of AEB Touchscreen hardware a bit slow Over-enthusiastic stop-start
The third-generation C3 is an altogether more accomplished offering than the second-gen C3 it replaces, a frumpy and humpy hatchback with lacklustre performance that had its genesis way back in 2009. Instead, Citroen has reinvented the C3, adding not only some much-needed style, but also injecting a performance lift thanks to a new drivetrain.
Pros Oozes style Beautiful ride Spacious interior, front and rear Thrummy three-pot engine sings
Cons Auto transmission hesitant at low speeds No AEB or blind-spot, hence 4-star ANCAP Expensive for the category
The Citroen C3 has quirky looks and a cabin that’s comfortable unless you’re a tall person in the back. However, it’s hard to drive smoothly in town and the infotainment system is clunky.
Pros Comfortable suspension Quiet cabin Quirky styling
Cons Average rear-seat space Hard to drive smoothly Infotainment isn’t the best
Presents enough rational arguments that it'll insinuate itself deep into many families' lives. But feels its age in many respects. There are better, more interesting cars in this class.
Pros Punchy, economical petrol engine. Practical
Cons Outdated interior and tech, nothing special to drive
