better and cheaper than the old one?

New look, new interior, the Citroën C3 changes completely. But is it really better than the previous generation?

Lagging behind its French rivals, the Peugeot 208 and Renault Clio, in sales, the Citroën C3 has completely changed its style and its vision of driving. A total contrast to the previous generation. But is it better than its predecessor?

The Citroën C3 takes on the codes of the SUV

No longer than the old one, the new C3 does however gain a little height (+ 10 cm). Enough in any case to give this city car a little SUV look, very much in tune with the times. This is accentuated by its more massive front and the protective skid plates, standard on Max, under the bumpers. Incidentally, the C3 takes up certain stylistic references from the Oli concept presented in the fall of 2022. The manufacturer’s new logo is now present on the front and rear faces of the city car.
On board, the habitability in the rear seats and the trunk volume (slightly lower than the average for the category) do not improve. Safer and more comfortable. In terms of quality, the materials are less attractive than before, and visible screws on the door panels testify to a lower finish. On the other hand, the presentation appears much more modern with its 100% digital instrument cluster, all in length, raised, and in the form of a strip, accompanied by richer and more high-tech equipment. Mandatory since the application of the GSR2 standard, the active AFIL and the automatic emergency braking are now standard.

Lower performance but competitive price

Mechanically, the Citroën C3 still has a PureTech 1.2 engine that now delivers 100 hp, while the previous generation had 110. The 10 hp lost, the perfectible gear ratio (5th and 6th gears too long) and the higher weight cause a slight decline in performance and driving pleasure. Because yes, with this engine, only a 6-speed manual gearbox is available to accompany it. On the other hand, comfort, already remarkable on the old one, is further improved thanks to the famous hydraulic stop suspensions that equip many models in the Citroën catalog, and that the brand is offering for the first time on its city car. In terms of noise, even if there is improvement, the vibrations and noise of the three cylinders are also felt and heard, especially in the city. A bit silly, for a city car.
Finally, the biggest reason for satisfaction is the price. Even if it is no longer possible to negotiate, the list price has dropped by… €4,350! The Citroën C3 is now available from €14,990, under the €15,000 mark. And regarding the penalty, you will only have to pay €230 or €240 for this 100 hp thermal version, depending on the finish chosen. Enough to put a smile on your face!

Comparison of lab measurements

Overall, if the C3 loses in performance and driving pleasure, it gains in comfort, in standard equipment, but above all a much more attractive price, in perfect agreement with the new positioning of the manufacturer.