Citroen C3
Ratings
3 stars
Summary
Average. Characterful supermini marred by cheap-feeling construction and indifferent dynamics - but priced to sell.
Review
The C3 is a pretty disappointing car, but one that is brought back into contention by some of the most negotiable pricetags on the forecourt.
The bulbous styling has a slightly retro feel to it, but beneath it it's clear that this is a car constructed on an ultra-tight budget. The cabin has plenty of space, but it feels gloomy and plasticky with many of the materials being disappointingly cheap-feeling. Rear seat space is also limited, although the boot is respectably proportioned by supermini standards.
On road performance is generally poor. The C3 manages to combine a harsh ride with wayward handling, and drivers will look in vain for any kind of enjoyment over a favourite back road or sweeping "A" road. Cruising refinement isn't up to much either.
At least there are lots of engines to choose between, although the basic 1.1 litre petrol unit is loud and lacks oomph, while even the mid-ranking 1.4 litre motor needs to be worked hard. Diesels are the sensible choice in the range, especially the excellent 1.6 litre HDI, which gives the range-toppers a genuine turn of speed.
Discounting is widespread too - meaning that the steep-looking list price is just a point where haggling starts. Look to negotiate at least £2000 off any model in the range.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
2 star
Bulbous looks hark back to Citroen's glorious past - but the C3 is no design icon.
Handling
2 star
Insipid driving dynamics mean the C3 is never going to be anything more than an
Comfort
2 star
Poor ride and an awkward driving position mean the Citroen isn't really happy at longer journeys.
Quality & Reliability
2 star
Cabin plastics feel very cheap by the standards of more upmarket rivals. There's no
Performance
3 star
Basic petrol engines lack urge, although the 1.6 litre motor offers a respectable amount of punch. Diesels are excellent, especially the 1.6 HDI unit.
Roominess
3 star
Tight-fitting in the back, but the boot is respectably sized.
Running Costs
4 star
Smaller engined versions should be very easy on the wallet thanks to low price insurance and cheap servicing.
Value for money
5 star
Citroen dealers love to cut prices - with a big enough discount turning the unexceptional C3 from also-ran into genuine contender.
