Citroën C3 Review: A Comfortable and Affordable Contender in the Supermini Segment

The departure of the Ford Fiesta from the supermini scene has left a notable gap, and carmakers are racing to claim the throne. One such challenger is the all-new Citroën C3 — a car that places comfort and value front and centre.

While it arrives alongside the electric ë-C3, this petrol-powered version shares not only its looks but also a fresh architecture dubbed ‘Smart Car’, designed to streamline production and reduce costs. And in that respect, Citroën has hit the mark. The new C3 is well-equipped and, impressively, comes in at a lower price than even the most basic Renault Clio.

A Supermini with a Touch of SUV

The redesigned C3 is a stark departure from the soft, curvy lines of its predecessor. Its new boxy, upright profile clearly takes inspiration from SUV styling, complete with a flat bonnet, roof rails and skid plates. These elements give it a sturdier appearance, but at the same time, it loses some of the playful flair traditionally associated with the Citroën brand. It’s not unattractive by any means, but it lacks the visual personality to truly stand out.

Despite the revamped styling, the overall footprint of the C3 remains virtually unchanged. It measures just over four metres in length and 1.75 metres in width — standard for this class — though its height has grown by 10 centimetres, enhancing the elevated stance.

Built for Simplicity, Priced for Value

The C3’s greatest innovation lies in its underpinnings. The new Smart Car platform reduces the number of components by 30% compared to the outgoing model. This simplification doesn’t just lower production costs — it makes the car more accessible to buyers as well. It’s a clever bit of engineering that is also set to underpin future models, including the upcoming C3 Aircross and Vauxhall Frontera, along with a range of other Citroën and Fiat vehicles.

On the Road

In everyday driving, the C3 proves to be an easygoing and satisfying companion. Its suspension is tuned for comfort, soaking up bumps and rough surfaces with impressive composure. The focus here is clearly on relaxed driving rather than sharp handling or driver engagement. Enthusiasts may find it a bit lacking in excitement, but for most, the plush ride and straightforward controls will be more than enough.

Equipment and Trim

Citroën has packed the C3 with generous equipment, even at the entry level. Standard features include air conditioning, cruise control, a touchscreen infotainment system, and safety aids like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. It’s a strong offering in terms of value for money, especially in a segment where some rivals charge extra for the same kit.

Verdict: One to Consider

The Citroën C3 is a smartly executed response to a shifting market. With comfort at its core, solid equipment levels and a price tag that makes rivals blush, it’s a very tempting option for those looking for a practical and pleasant urban runabout.

While it may not win over drivers who seek thrills behind the wheel, the C3 delivers where it counts for most people: day-to-day comfort, efficiency and affordability. It might not shout for attention, but it certainly deserves a second look.

Rating: 8/10
Pros: Excellent value, very comfortable, well-equipped
Cons: Plain exterior, minimal driver engagement