Citroën’s new C3 is the latest evolution of the automaker’s worldwide best-seller.
The third generation Citroën C3 has already secured more than 780,000 sales globally since its launch in 2016. The model features the brand’s latest front-end styling, updated interiors and efficient RDE2-compliant petrol and diesel engines.
Always supremely comfortable, the latest Citroën C3 is now the French motor manufacturer’s most customisable hatchback, with up to 97 different exterior combinations.
Helping the model to stand out from the crowd, the C3 features a revised front-end showcasing Citroën’s new signature design language inspired by the CXPERIENCE Concept. Measuring 3.99m long, 1.75m wide and 1.47m tall, the C3 also gains LED lighting at the front, new 17-inch alloy wheels and fresh Airbump designs.
As mentioned, the C3 can be customised with many personalisation combinations. There is a choice of coordinated colour packs centred around four bi-tone roof colours – Onyx Black, Opal White, Sport Red and Emerald Blue – along with two new body colours – Elixir Red and Spring Blue – and new ‘Techwood’ and ‘Emerald’ interior ambiances. Further personalisation options include roof décor graphics in ‘Red’, ‘Techwood’ and ‘Emerald’ styles.
C-Series Trim
Perhaps even more noteworthy, though, is Citroën’s new ‘C-Series’ trim level, as fitted to the car driven for this article. Ushered in as part of the wider ‘Citroën Advance UK’ three-year plan, ‘C-Series’ models are priced competitively and include a five-year warranty for retail customers purchasing online. The pricing and specifications follow Citroën’s new ‘Fair Pricing’ strategy, which includes reduced list prices, and being transparent and upfront with buyers. Perfect if you’re a cash-strapped dad, right?
The new C3 ‘C-Series’ models are available from £13,980, and feature a wealth of standard equipment. Paint comes in the form of ‘Soft Sand’ metallic, with a choice of four additional colours available at an extra cost (Polar White, Perla Nera Black, Cumulus Grey and Platinum Grey) of between £275 and £545.
Power comes in the form of Citroën’s 1.2L PureTech 83 stop and start petrol engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, delivering CO2 emissions of just 124g/km.
Standard exterior equipment includes 16-inch ‘Matrix’ bi-tone wheels, Airbump panels on the doors, a new Anodised Deep Red colour pack with colour detailing, gloss black door-mirrors and a bi-tone Onyx Black roof.
‘C-Series’ models also feature LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, a 3D rear light-signature and front fog lights and, for added style, dark tinted rear and tailgate windows. For enhanced comfort and convenience, ‘C-Series’ models enjoy automatic headlights, automatic air conditioning, coffee break alert, lane departure warning, cruise control, speed sign recognition and recommendation, as well as rear parking sensors – all as standard.
Infotainment hasn’t been overlooked either, with new C3 ‘C-Series’ models enjoying a seven-inch touchscreen, Apple Carplay, Android Auto, DAB Radio and USB all as standard.
In addition to the Anodised Deep Red colour pack, C3 ‘C-Series’ models can also be identified by special badges on the front doors, a bespoke interior ambience and branded carpet mats.
On the Move
But, what’s it like behind the wheel? Well, the up-to-date C3 is a fantastic car for urban driving environments. It has a real nippiness about it in town, but it does take its time to get a move on away from metropolitan settings.
That said; as long as you don’t mind giving the long legged, five-speed manual transmission a workout, things start rolling quite well up to 70mph. But the car, in 83PS guise, does get wheezy if pushed beyond that.
The Citroën C3’s biggest aptitude, is, undoubtedly, refinement. Not many superminis come close. Yes, the Fiesta offers a more dynamic drive, but it’s less interesting to look at.
Parking the new Citroën C3 is a cinch – due to its light steering and size. At speed, the steering becomes a little dead, but it’s not a deal-breaker.
The driving position is good and there’s a lot of legroom for the front seat passenger. Rear-seat adult passengers, or lanky teenagers, won’t be so fortunate, due to the sloping roofline and dearth of legroom. However; two young children will be okay seated in the back of the new C3.
Additionally, the boot is a decent size – and substantial enough for a toddler’s buggy, or the weekly shop.
So, what are you waiting for, dads? If you’re after a low-cost school/nursery-run motor, Citroën’s new C3 needs to be on your shopping list.
Leave a Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.