First Drive: Citroën C3

First Drive: Citroën C3 

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The Citroën C3 was once a well-liked vehicle in the supermini category in Mzansi. However, due to poor sales, the brand withdrew from the local market in 2016.

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After conducting a thorough market analysis, Citroën returned to the local market in 2020 and launched three new models as part of its revival strategy. One of these models is the C3, which, when it arrived, offered excellent driving dynamics and a high-quality interior as the entry-level option.

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South Africa no longer receives the Euro-spec C3 model but rather the Indian-spec variant, which competes in the same B-SUV segment as the Nissan Magnite, Suzuki Vitara Brezza and the Renault Kiger of French origin.

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Only a sole Feel trim level is available from launch powered by a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Citroën promises an auto-equipped high-grade model plus the arrival of a compact SUV shortly. 

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In terms of looks, the C3 hasn’t lost any of its traits as a funky model aimed at those young at heart, thanks to customisable options, including six dual-tone colours and four monotone shades. 

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It retains the brand’s familiar brand identity, consisting of a ‘Y’ form lighting signature and two horizontal chrome bars extending towards the daytime running lights. The rear end adopts a nee taillight design with three geometric forms, as depicted on the Oli concept in 2022. 

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The new C3 ships as standard with 15” steel wheels with relatively stylish covers. These are upgradeable to 16” alloys via the accessories package at a further R8,300. Buyers can customise their C3 using the range of accessories as part of the Elegance and Energy packages at a price of R2,200 and R2,700, respectively. 

Compared to the European model, it’s 15 mm shorter and 16 mm wider but sits higher off the ground and has a generous ground clearance of 180 mm that most buyers in the B-SUV segment will appreciate. 

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Cost-cutting with a dab of chic

Inside, the interior is awash with hard plastic materials with clear signs of cost-cutting here and there. Despite this, there is little clutter, while the French chic also shines through with beautifully designed seats, a nicely-weighed steering wheel and well-thought-out knobs and switches.  

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Speaking of cost-cutting measures, the new C3 has no ESP, electronic side mirror adjustment, reverse camera, rear defogger and rev counter. Instead, there is a small 7” colour TFT cluster screen that only displays the fuel level, speed and temperature. 

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In its defence, it has an intuitive 10” infotainment system with an excellent pixel resolution and accepts both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There are three USB ports, one up front and two for rear occupants. 

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There’s enough space for a comfortable drive with good head and shoulder room, yet the legroom isn’t one of the C3’s strongest points. The boot space is rated at 315 litres. Compared to its rivals, it doesn’t exactly set any benchmarks, with the Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, and Suzuki Vitara Brezza boasting considerably more space.  

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Small capacity, small numbers

With only 61 kW and 115 Nm of torque, the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated 3-cylinder unit feels slightly underpowered. Still, compared to other small-capacity engines, it gets the job done as a small compact vehicle for urban runarounds and could perform even better at sea level. As for the 5-speed manual transmission, it offers good drivability.    

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Regarding comfort and handling, the C3 offers spot-on credentials in both departments, with controlled body roll and acceptable amounts of grip.  

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I am still a fan of the pre-facelift Euro-spec C3 introduced in 2020 alongside its turbocharged counterpart, which we still hold in high regard. Though they say change is good, the Indian spec lacks character, and while we understand the move by Citroën, it’s not a bad proposition and a likeable car to live with. 

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It bears some resemblance to the Kwid in terms of its cost-saving approach, but there is a significant difference: it aims to compete with rivals and other well-equipped B-SUVs in the market, and it performed well by achieving four stars at the Euro NCAP.

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This raises an important question: which one should you purchase? The updated Euro-spec C3 of 2021 presents itself as a more premium product due to its high-quality construction, excellent driving dynamics and a turbo petrol engine that delivers satisfying performance. A pre-owned model in good condition is worth considering.

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For the 2023 C3, Citroën asks for R229,900, and the pricing includes a 2-year/30,000 km service plan and a 5-year/100,000 km warranty. 

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