by In the B-segment, most models are not particularly original or unusual. After all, in the budget segment, design and creativity do not play a major role. However, there are exceptions to the rules, such as the Citroen C3. Recently, its updated version went on sale in Ukraine, and we decided to get acquainted with it.
The Citroen C3 2021 cannot go unnoticed – it is extraordinary and very original. The front part of the hatchback has been updated, but the two-tier optics are retained (daytime running lights and indicators on top, main headlights below), and they are diode.
Moreover, the unusually high for a hatchback hood and plastic cladding on the sides, wheel arches, and sills make the new Citroen C3 somewhat similar to a crossover. By the way, the C3 is a close relative of the recently tested by us Opel Corsa: the models are built on the same platform, but are completely different in both design and character.
The interior also has plenty of unusual solutions – such as loops instead of door handles. An unusually dense (like cloth) fabric is used in the finish, and the plastic is diluted with inserts in the body color.
The instruments are deeply embedded in the panel, and the speedometer readings are duplicated digitally on the screen. Most of the central panel is occupied by a 7-inch touchscreen. There are few buttons left here, as even the climate is adjusted through the menu – this is still a rarity for the B-segment.
Below is a small niche where a phone will fit if it’s small. A large smartphone really has nowhere to put – and this is probably the only claim to the Citroen C3’s interior. Especially since the hatchback has Android Auto.
The steering column is adjustable in two planes, and the driver’s seat has plenty of adjustments. The seats are soft, but a little more lateral support would be desirable. They are equipped with heating, and the driver has a folding armrest. The seating position in the Citroen C3 is quite high for a hatchback, and there are no questions about visibility.
There’s enough space for two medium-height passengers in the back. Overhead clearance is good, and there’s ample legroom. The trunk volume is 300 liters. The rear door opening is wide, but a slightly lower loading height would be nice.
The Citroen C3’s top variant Shine includes keyless access, climate control, acoustics, cruise control, parking sensors, a rearview camera, light and rain sensors. Additionally, there’s lane marking and driver fatigue monitoring.
The 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine is familiar from many Stellantis models – it is installed in different power versions on the same Corsa and Peugeot 2008, and on DS3 Crossback. In the C3, it develops 110 hp and has a torque of 205 Nm at just 1500 rpm.
In urban conditions, this is quite enough for a lightweight car, and the engine character is lively, quickly spinning up. However, as the revs increase, it becomes quite audible but operates without vibrations. Officially, it accelerates to 100 km/h in 9.8 seconds.
The Start/Stop system works without jerks, although it sometimes engages with a delay. The claimed fuel consumption is 6.8 l/100 km in the city and 4.2 l/100 km on the highway. We managed about 9 l/100 km in the city (but with heavy traffic), while achieving the passport consumption on the highway was easy.
The 6-speed automatic transmission operates quite quickly and generally smoothly, although shifting from the first to the second gear at low speeds is sometimes accompanied by a jerk.
The city is the natural habitat of the Citroen C3, and the hatchback performs best here. It’s nimble and maneuverable, quickly changing lanes, with a light steering wheel that can be turned with just a few fingers. The suspension easily absorbs most bumps – the C3 is softer in this regard than many peers. At the same time, the car doesn’t lean too much in corners. The 110 hp version has rear disc brakes (drums in the base), so there are no questions about deceleration.
The new Citroen C3 is an unconventional representative of the B-segment, and at a very reasonable price. The base version costs 402,500 hryvnias, while the 110 hp version Shine costs 538,600 hryvnias.
Specifications of the Citroen C3:
- 3-cylinder petrol turbo engine, transverse front
- Displacement 1199 cm3
- Power 110 at 5500 rpm
- Maximum torque 205 Nm at 1500 rpm
- Front-wheel drive
- 6-speed automatic transmission
- Maximum speed 188 km/h
- Acceleration 0-100 km/h 9.8 seconds
- Fuel consumption city/highway 6.8/4.2 l/100 km
- Length/width/height/wheelbase 3996/1749/1474/2540 mm
- Trunk volume 300-922 liters
- Ground clearance 140 mm
- Turning diameter 10.7 m
