Citroen C3 1.4 VTi EGS (A) Review
19 Oct 2012|16,790 views
We were never quite acquainted with compact hatchbacks. Like how volume used to command supremacy, the bigger has always been perceived as being the better.
That came to a change when people realised how smaller cars can be more fun to drive than their bigger brethrens. Of course it does without the commanding presence, which does not always equate to the lack of character.
Hatchbacks, for instance, have proven that size isn’t the only factor that attracts the right eyeballs. Take the Hyundai Veloster and Alfa Romeo Giuletta for instance - they boast different appeals without getting on bulk. And we may just have another diminutive example which oozes chic and stylishness.
Exterior
Citroen has been a strong advocate for matching form with function (the well received DS line is a proof of its success). The C3 hatch is the latest offering in town, now with a revised drivetrain - a 'downgrade' from the previous 1.6-litre to a more economically-inclined 1.4.
Despite being on the market for close to two years now, the C3 looks fresh, almost mistaken as a brand new model that's hot from the oven. That is not to say that the C3 is anywhere among A-listers in terms of desirability. The 'C3' moniker may serve as a reminiscent of its more sporty looking DS3 sibling, but the C3 hatch is designed to cater to a different audience altogether.
That came to a change when people realised how smaller cars can be more fun to drive than their bigger brethrens. Of course it does without the commanding presence, which does not always equate to the lack of character.
Hatchbacks, for instance, have proven that size isn’t the only factor that attracts the right eyeballs. Take the Hyundai Veloster and Alfa Romeo Giuletta for instance - they boast different appeals without getting on bulk. And we may just have another diminutive example which oozes chic and stylishness.
Exterior
Citroen has been a strong advocate for matching form with function (the well received DS line is a proof of its success). The C3 hatch is the latest offering in town, now with a revised drivetrain - a 'downgrade' from the previous 1.6-litre to a more economically-inclined 1.4.
Despite being on the market for close to two years now, the C3 looks fresh, almost mistaken as a brand new model that's hot from the oven. That is not to say that the C3 is anywhere among A-listers in terms of desirability. The 'C3' moniker may serve as a reminiscent of its more sporty looking DS3 sibling, but the C3 hatch is designed to cater to a different audience altogether.
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Measuring under 4-metre in length and 1.7-metre wide, the C3 is one of the bigger contenders in its class (on par with the VW Polo in length and girth, but outshining the Suzuki Swift in all dimensions). The designers managed to keep the C3's chirpy and sprightly image with the short overhangs and high-arching roof - a sure-fire way to hide all the heft.
The retained aesthetics has a soft, cute-ish approach, which we reckon should stir the heart-strings of budding couples, if not the fairer sex. Perhaps it's due to the city-car proportions and the array of pastel paints which give the C3 a lifestyle showcase.
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Interior
Upon entry into the cabin, the driver is faced with a relatively simple interior, which lends light to the car's humble positioning in the hierarchy. Spanning across the dashboard is a one piece aluminium-effect plastic, which provides a good contrast to the otherwise monotonous interior.
That said, the C3's interior is not without merits. The best hints of the car's cheerful character can be taken from the digital climate readouts on the centre panel. The instrument panel, too, carries a lively mood to it, while retaining great readability - most noteworthy being the digitalised meter which clearly displays the gear engaged.
Steering-mounted shifters and Bluetooth telephony function comes standard on the C3
Upon entry into the cabin, the driver is faced with a relatively simple interior, which lends light to the car's humble positioning in the hierarchy. Spanning across the dashboard is a one piece aluminium-effect plastic, which provides a good contrast to the otherwise monotonous interior.
That said, the C3's interior is not without merits. The best hints of the car's cheerful character can be taken from the digital climate readouts on the centre panel. The instrument panel, too, carries a lively mood to it, while retaining great readability - most noteworthy being the digitalised meter which clearly displays the gear engaged.
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The C3 comes packed with bits of niceties that will put things at ease, such as integrated Bluetooth for both phone and media functions - praiseworthy as these are rarely seen in its class.
As expected of a car of such dimensions, the rear quarters can be restrictive for taller individuals. The white-stitched cushions are genuinely comfortable to sit in, with the rear bench capable of taking in three adults with a slight squeeze. The C3's cargo lugging capabilities is no less impressive, thanks to the large opening and generous depth of the boot.
The boot sports generous depth despite its diminutive dimensions
As expected of a car of such dimensions, the rear quarters can be restrictive for taller individuals. The white-stitched cushions are genuinely comfortable to sit in, with the rear bench capable of taking in three adults with a slight squeeze. The C3's cargo lugging capabilities is no less impressive, thanks to the large opening and generous depth of the boot.
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The Drive
The main aspect of this new variant lies in its drivetrain - a downsized 1.4-litre from 1.6, matched to a 5-speed robotised manual (previously a 4-speed automatic)
The C3's 1.4-litre force-blown powerplant is surprisingly punchy on the move, despatching the power with a whiny buzz. It is also this aspect of the drivetrain that exposes the shortcomings of the transmission. Despite gaining an additional ratio, the car feels a tad lethargic. Plus, with the lack of power on demand, overtaking slower moving cars on the highway can be a nervous process. The sluggish cog swops, instead, urge one to drive the C3 at a more leisurely pace.
At cruising, the engine simmers to a barely perceptible burble. This, coupled with the efficient cabin insulation, gives the C3 a serene experience that could only be felt in more premium models. This with due credits to the pliant suspension settings, taking most of the tarmac flaws well in its stride.
Panoramic sky-roof part of the mood-lifting experience
The main aspect of this new variant lies in its drivetrain - a downsized 1.4-litre from 1.6, matched to a 5-speed robotised manual (previously a 4-speed automatic)
The C3's 1.4-litre force-blown powerplant is surprisingly punchy on the move, despatching the power with a whiny buzz. It is also this aspect of the drivetrain that exposes the shortcomings of the transmission. Despite gaining an additional ratio, the car feels a tad lethargic. Plus, with the lack of power on demand, overtaking slower moving cars on the highway can be a nervous process. The sluggish cog swops, instead, urge one to drive the C3 at a more leisurely pace.
At cruising, the engine simmers to a barely perceptible burble. This, coupled with the efficient cabin insulation, gives the C3 a serene experience that could only be felt in more premium models. This with due credits to the pliant suspension settings, taking most of the tarmac flaws well in its stride.
However, the car isn't without flaws. When driven hard around the corner, the C3 will respond with substantial body roll. The flat-bottom steering wheel provides good grasp, but feels irresponsive when tackling corners, adding to the missing 'feel' between the driver and the car.
That though, should be less of a concern. For starters the C3 was never meant to be engagingly driven. Instead it offers a cool and calm experience. Stowing away the roof-lining reveals what Citroen calls the Zenith windscreen, which allows natural lights to flood the cabin in the day, and exposes one to the dazzling cityscapes at night. Either of which, it accentuates a relaxing atmosphere which lifts the mood off a dreadful day at work.
Conclusion
The Citroen C3 has done well with its plush interior and a serenade driving experience. No doubt the notchy gearbox would have raised a few brows, it is not hard to find where the hatchback shines - one that delivers comfort at its best while keeping drivers indulged in a stylish and cheerful atmosphere.
That though, should be less of a concern. For starters the C3 was never meant to be engagingly driven. Instead it offers a cool and calm experience. Stowing away the roof-lining reveals what Citroen calls the Zenith windscreen, which allows natural lights to flood the cabin in the day, and exposes one to the dazzling cityscapes at night. Either of which, it accentuates a relaxing atmosphere which lifts the mood off a dreadful day at work.
Conclusion
The Citroen C3 has done well with its plush interior and a serenade driving experience. No doubt the notchy gearbox would have raised a few brows, it is not hard to find where the hatchback shines - one that delivers comfort at its best while keeping drivers indulged in a stylish and cheerful atmosphere.
We were never quite acquainted with compact hatchbacks. Like how volume used to command supremacy, the bigger has always been perceived as being the better.
That came to a change when people realised how smaller cars can be more fun to drive than their bigger brethrens. Of course it does without the commanding presence, which does not always equate to the lack of character.
Hatchbacks, for instance, have proven that size isn’t the only factor that attracts the right eyeballs. Take the Hyundai Veloster and Alfa Romeo Giuletta for instance - they boast different appeals without getting on bulk. And we may just have another diminutive example which oozes chic and stylishness.
Exterior
Citroen has been a strong advocate for matching form with function (the well received DS line is a proof of its success). The C3 hatch is the latest offering in town, now with a revised drivetrain - a 'downgrade' from the previous 1.6-litre to a more economically-inclined 1.4.
Despite being on the market for close to two years now, the C3 looks fresh, almost mistaken as a brand new model that's hot from the oven. That is not to say that the C3 is anywhere among A-listers in terms of desirability. The 'C3' moniker may serve as a reminiscent of its more sporty looking DS3 sibling, but the C3 hatch is designed to cater to a different audience altogether.
That came to a change when people realised how smaller cars can be more fun to drive than their bigger brethrens. Of course it does without the commanding presence, which does not always equate to the lack of character.
Hatchbacks, for instance, have proven that size isn’t the only factor that attracts the right eyeballs. Take the Hyundai Veloster and Alfa Romeo Giuletta for instance - they boast different appeals without getting on bulk. And we may just have another diminutive example which oozes chic and stylishness.
Exterior
Citroen has been a strong advocate for matching form with function (the well received DS line is a proof of its success). The C3 hatch is the latest offering in town, now with a revised drivetrain - a 'downgrade' from the previous 1.6-litre to a more economically-inclined 1.4.
Despite being on the market for close to two years now, the C3 looks fresh, almost mistaken as a brand new model that's hot from the oven. That is not to say that the C3 is anywhere among A-listers in terms of desirability. The 'C3' moniker may serve as a reminiscent of its more sporty looking DS3 sibling, but the C3 hatch is designed to cater to a different audience altogether.
Measuring under 4-metre in length and 1.7-metre wide, the C3 is one of the bigger contenders in its class (on par with the VW Polo in length and girth, but outshining the Suzuki Swift in all dimensions). The designers managed to keep the C3's chirpy and sprightly image with the short overhangs and high-arching roof - a sure-fire way to hide all the heft.
The retained aesthetics has a soft, cute-ish approach, which we reckon should stir the heart-strings of budding couples, if not the fairer sex. Perhaps it's due to the city-car proportions and the array of pastel paints which give the C3 a lifestyle showcase.
The retained aesthetics has a soft, cute-ish approach, which we reckon should stir the heart-strings of budding couples, if not the fairer sex. Perhaps it's due to the city-car proportions and the array of pastel paints which give the C3 a lifestyle showcase.
Interior
Upon entry into the cabin, the driver is faced with a relatively simple interior, which lends light to the car's humble positioning in the hierarchy. Spanning across the dashboard is a one piece aluminium-effect plastic, which provides a good contrast to the otherwise monotonous interior.
That said, the C3's interior is not without merits. The best hints of the car's cheerful character can be taken from the digital climate readouts on the centre panel. The instrument panel, too, carries a lively mood to it, while retaining great readability - most noteworthy being the digitalised meter which clearly displays the gear engaged.
Upon entry into the cabin, the driver is faced with a relatively simple interior, which lends light to the car's humble positioning in the hierarchy. Spanning across the dashboard is a one piece aluminium-effect plastic, which provides a good contrast to the otherwise monotonous interior.
That said, the C3's interior is not without merits. The best hints of the car's cheerful character can be taken from the digital climate readouts on the centre panel. The instrument panel, too, carries a lively mood to it, while retaining great readability - most noteworthy being the digitalised meter which clearly displays the gear engaged.
The C3 comes packed with bits of niceties that will put things at ease, such as integrated Bluetooth for both phone and media functions - praiseworthy as these are rarely seen in its class.
As expected of a car of such dimensions, the rear quarters can be restrictive for taller individuals. The white-stitched cushions are genuinely comfortable to sit in, with the rear bench capable of taking in three adults with a slight squeeze. The C3's cargo lugging capabilities is no less impressive, thanks to the large opening and generous depth of the boot.
As expected of a car of such dimensions, the rear quarters can be restrictive for taller individuals. The white-stitched cushions are genuinely comfortable to sit in, with the rear bench capable of taking in three adults with a slight squeeze. The C3's cargo lugging capabilities is no less impressive, thanks to the large opening and generous depth of the boot.
The Drive
The main aspect of this new variant lies in its drivetrain - a downsized 1.4-litre from 1.6, matched to a 5-speed robotised manual (previously a 4-speed automatic)
The C3's 1.4-litre force-blown powerplant is surprisingly punchy on the move, despatching the power with a whiny buzz. It is also this aspect of the drivetrain that exposes the shortcomings of the transmission. Despite gaining an additional ratio, the car feels a tad lethargic. Plus, with the lack of power on demand, overtaking slower moving cars on the highway can be a nervous process. The sluggish cog swops, instead, urge one to drive the C3 at a more leisurely pace.
At cruising, the engine simmers to a barely perceptible burble. This, coupled with the efficient cabin insulation, gives the C3 a serene experience that could only be felt in more premium models. This with due credits to the pliant suspension settings, taking most of the tarmac flaws well in its stride.
The main aspect of this new variant lies in its drivetrain - a downsized 1.4-litre from 1.6, matched to a 5-speed robotised manual (previously a 4-speed automatic)
The C3's 1.4-litre force-blown powerplant is surprisingly punchy on the move, despatching the power with a whiny buzz. It is also this aspect of the drivetrain that exposes the shortcomings of the transmission. Despite gaining an additional ratio, the car feels a tad lethargic. Plus, with the lack of power on demand, overtaking slower moving cars on the highway can be a nervous process. The sluggish cog swops, instead, urge one to drive the C3 at a more leisurely pace.
At cruising, the engine simmers to a barely perceptible burble. This, coupled with the efficient cabin insulation, gives the C3 a serene experience that could only be felt in more premium models. This with due credits to the pliant suspension settings, taking most of the tarmac flaws well in its stride.
However, the car isn't without flaws. When driven hard around the corner, the C3 will respond with substantial body roll. The flat-bottom steering wheel provides good grasp, but feels irresponsive when tackling corners, adding to the missing 'feel' between the driver and the car.
That though, should be less of a concern. For starters the C3 was never meant to be engagingly driven. Instead it offers a cool and calm experience. Stowing away the roof-lining reveals what Citroen calls the Zenith windscreen, which allows natural lights to flood the cabin in the day, and exposes one to the dazzling cityscapes at night. Either of which, it accentuates a relaxing atmosphere which lifts the mood off a dreadful day at work.
Conclusion
The Citroen C3 has done well with its plush interior and a serenade driving experience. No doubt the notchy gearbox would have raised a few brows, it is not hard to find where the hatchback shines - one that delivers comfort at its best while keeping drivers indulged in a stylish and cheerful atmosphere.
That though, should be less of a concern. For starters the C3 was never meant to be engagingly driven. Instead it offers a cool and calm experience. Stowing away the roof-lining reveals what Citroen calls the Zenith windscreen, which allows natural lights to flood the cabin in the day, and exposes one to the dazzling cityscapes at night. Either of which, it accentuates a relaxing atmosphere which lifts the mood off a dreadful day at work.
Conclusion
The Citroen C3 has done well with its plush interior and a serenade driving experience. No doubt the notchy gearbox would have raised a few brows, it is not hard to find where the hatchback shines - one that delivers comfort at its best while keeping drivers indulged in a stylish and cheerful atmosphere.
Photos by Nicholas Low
Car Information
Citroen C3 1.4 VTi EGS (A)
CAT A|Petrol|17.8km/L
Horsepower
71kW (95 bhp)
Torque
136 Nm
Acceleration
11.8sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Citroen C3
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