Citroen C3 Mk3

	Citroen C3
	Debut: 2016 Maker: Citroen Predecessor: C3 Mk2

Published on 12 Oct 2016

With the exception of Ford Fiesta and Mazda 2 perhaps, small cars are all about packaging. Think about this: to keep cost down, all superminis employ much the same mechanical layout and electronic technologies supplied by the same suppliers. Even engines get closer and closer these days, as the chase for reduced emission causes many to turn to small turbocharged 3-cylinders. While substances become increasingly similar, what distinguishes one car from another becomes packaging, which is defined by styling, materials and use of space. French small cars did not perform very well in this respect, but in recent years they are catching up. Peugeot 208 proved that they are capable to design a small car that looks good, well-made yet efficient in terms of space and weight. Citroen C4 Cactus even breaks the mold with an unusual packaging that looks classless yet highly practical to use. Now the third generation C3 follows the footprints of its sisters.

The new C3 is built on the same PF1 platform of Peugeot 208 thus both have a lot in common, such the same 2540 mm wheelbase, short overhangs and the same range of engines. However, its exterior and interior packaging is heavily inspired by the larger C4 Cactus, although it doesn’t look quite as special. Like Cactus, its round nose is characterized by a high-set double-chevron logo and slim LED daytime running lights that sit right above the main beams. The main front grille, headlights, fog lights and taillights are shaped as “squicles” (a term invented by Fiat, which refers to something between square and circle). In addition to the 2-tone paint scheme, “floating” roof, and stylish alloy wheels, the car looks quite funky. Meanwhile, the plastic claddings at the bumpers and wheel arches, as well as the anti-scratch “Airbump” at the doors provide an SUV-style tough look and significant protection in the real world. It does very well in both forms and functions.

Although it is a value-oriented car rather than a premium product like Mini or DS3, the new C3 offers a lot of customization, including 3 roof colors that match the door mirrors and fog light surrounds, as well as 4 interior trims. In the cabin, you will find plenty of room for its size. The boot is also generous at 300 liters. The front seats are classy, being wide, comfortable yet hold you tight in corner. You sit high as on a crossover so that the view on the road ahead is excellent. Rear passengers sit higher still, so they won’t feel cramped. With optional panoramic roof the sense of airiness is enhanced further.

The dashboard design isn’t quite as minimalist as C4 Cactus, especially as it has the LCD instrument replaced with conventional dials, but the theme is similar. It is wide and upright to emphasize the sense of spaciousness. The 7-inch touchscreen on the center console keeps hardware buttons to the minimum. It is also clear, responsive and easy to use. Most plastics are hard, inevitably, but there are soft upholstery on the dash panel and door handles. The leather door pulls are nice touches inspired by Cactus, as is the classy-looking gear knob. These small things cost little, but they contribute a lot to the tasteful interior ambience.

In dynamics, the C3 has nothing to surprise, but it won’t disappoint. You may choose between the naturally aspirated or turbocharged version of the 1.2-liter PureTech 3-cylinder engine, which produces 82 hp or 110 hp respectively. The latter is definitely recommended as it offers abundance of torque (some 151 lbft) hence remarkable flexibility and cruising refinement. It is also smooth, willing to rev and produces a tuneful exhaust note. Incredibly, its official fuel consumption is even lower than the naturally aspirated version. In the diesel side, there are 2 versions of the 1.6 HDi with either 75 hp or 100 hp. The C3 weighs virtually the same as Peugeot 208, so it is lighter than most rivals thus performance is highly competitive.

Unlike most Citroen small cars, it is high on refinement. The suspension has longer travel and softer setting than its Peugeot cousin, so it is not surprising to find a quiet and supple ride even on rough roads. Road and wind noise are also well suppressed. Meanwhile, it doesn’t sacrifice a lot in handling – it rolls little in corner. The electric power steering might be short of feedback, but it is accurate and progressively weighted. While it is no Fiesta or Mazda for driving thrills, it is by no means boring to drive. In fact, you will find more pleasure than in most cars of the class. Such a well-judged balance and high level of polish is the most surprising to us, more so than the outstanding packaging. Following C4 Cactus, Citroen has built another good small car.

Verdict: