For This budget C3 model offers good fuel economy and low CO2 emissions, along with electric front windows, a CD player and twin front and side airbags.

Against You don't get much other kit with this most basic C3. The 1.1-litre engine is gutless, struggling to keep up with traffic in town, never mind on the motorway.

Citroën C3 Hatchback

What Car? says

2 out of 5 stars

It might look like a cheap way into a new supermini, but the C3 1.1 VT is too basic and sluggish to satisfy all but the most miserly of drivers.

What Car? readers say

4.166667


Key facts

0–60mph
16.5 secs
Top speed
96 mph
Average mpg
47.9
Tank range
527 miles
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Features

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Size

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View the whole Citroën C3 Hatchback range

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The full Citroën C3 review


Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

The Citroen C3 isn't one of the cheapest superminis and it won't hold its value particularly well. However, you should be able to secure a big discount.

The range is pretty simple to understand, starting at VT, moving up through VTR+ and topping out at Exclusive. An eco-special Airdream+ model that's exempt from road tax is also available. Engine stop-start technology and automatic gearboxes are on the way.

The range kicks off with a 1.1-litre petrol engine, but it is woefully underpowered. The 72bhp 1.4-litre petrol is better, while the 94bhp 1.4 delivers such lively performance that it makes the 118bhp 1.6 seem redundant.

The 89bhp 1.6-litre diesel also impresses because it's smooth and flexible, but you'll have to do a lot of miles to justify the expense. There's a cheaper 67bhp 1.4 diesel that's fine as long as you're not in too much of a hurry. A 110bhp 1.6 completes the line-up.

Reader test team says:

Citroën C3 Hatchback 1.6 HDi 16v 90 Airdream+ 5dr

Previously owned 2 C3's, known as the "Beach Cars" by the family due to their poor build quality. This model is a real improvement in every way…

david evans

4 out of 5 stars

Citroën C3 Hatchback 1.4i 75 Connextion 5dr

I drive a special edition model based on the VTR+ its called the Connexion. It has additional equipment such as a My Way Sat Nav system with climate…

Desmond Boddington

4 out of 5 stars

Citroën C3 Hatchback 1.4 VTi 95 Exclusive 5dr

This is the first small car I've owned, and I've have to say there is much to like about this one. On the plus side, its a good looking car, has very…

Paul Skeates

4 out of 5 stars

Citroën C3 Hatchback 1.6 HDi 90 Exclusive 5dr

Having now covered 6,000 miles in our Citroen C3 from new, I find the car a joy to drive. The 17" wheels we opted for were a cheap optional extra…

Michael Kaiser

4 out of 5 stars
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