Citroen C3 - Honest Pros & Cons

While it is not wise to call C3 a compact SUV however it's a crossover from hatch to a compact SUV - something in between. Keeping in mind the price-conscious Indian car buyer, C3 is high on the localisation. The made-in-India C3 is derived from the  PSA's Common Modular Platform. 

The all new Citroen - C3 | Bookings Open

For now, only 2 variants - Live and Feel are up for grabs. There are two engine options - an 81 BHP, 1.2L naturally-aspirated petrol mated to a 5-speed MT, and a 109 BHP turbocharged petrol mated to a 6-speed MT. However, it lags the automatic variant. 

Design & Styling

Citroen's design language is unconventional and disruptive. Though dimensions are proportionate it feels like a well-designed SUV but compressed in size, like the Tata Punch. 

The C3 measures 3,981 mm in length, 1,733 mm in width, and 1,604 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,540 mm which is more than the Tata Punch (2,445 mm), and the Nissan Magnite & Renault Kiger (2,500 mm). You don't get alloy wheels as standard, but as an optional add-on.

C3 - Interiors

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Build Quality, Fit & Finish

The C3 uses a Common Modular Platform and while it is built to a cost, it doesn't feel cheap.  The doors and the bonnet are sturdy. The doors have a 3-stage opening & closing action providing a satisfactory thud. Overall, the car feels solid. The only downside is the quality of plastic used. 

The Infotainment system - Apple Carplay & Android Auto 

Wheels & Tyres

The Citroen C3 is offered with 15-inch steel wheels as standard with 'Tessera' wheel covers. You can opt for alloy wheels as an option. 

The standard tyre size is 195/65 R15 for both, naturally aspirated and turbo petrol variants and have a speed limit of 80 km/h.

Less on Space - Suitable for 4 passengers

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Ground Clearance

The C3 has a ground clearance of 180 mm, which is suitable for Indian road conditions. Note that the Tata Punch has a GC of 190 mm and the Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite have a GC of 205 mm.

Maintenance

Being a new brand in India, Citroen is focusing on providing good service for this car by leveraging virtual remote diagnosis, periodic service and maintenance with pickup and drop facilities, 180-minute RSA guarantee, remote service job card opening, service cost estimator on the website, genuine spare parts availability in 24 hours and service on wheels to name a few. 

Focused on building Service Centers pan India

Safety

The Citroen C3 isn't feature-loaded and have minimalistic safety basic. It has dual airbags, ABS, reverse parking sensors, speed-sensitive auto door lock, and seatbelt reminder for driver and passenger. You will surel miss the adjustable headrests in the front and rear, ISOFIX child seat anchors, side airbags, and a reverse parking camera.

Also Read: Should you buy 2022 Kia Seltos or Sonet? 

Verdict - The Pros and Cons

Pros

• Disruptive peppy design! 

• Practical Cabin

• 1.2L turbo-petrol is sportier, while the 1.2L naturally-aspirated engine offers excellent drivability

• 6-speed MT offers light and seamless operation 

• Soft suspension offers a very good ride & handling 

• Excellent 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay

• Lots of customization options and accessories

Cons

• Misses mostly on the latest features like the electric ORVM adjustment, IRVM dimmer (not even manual), climate control, rear wiper & defogger, reversing camera, alloy wheels, tachometer!

• Just 2 variants at launch 

• No automatic transmission on offer - a big miss when ATs are raging in India

• Quality of cabin materials is not at par with European standards

• Some ergonomic issues like the placement of rear power window switches, unusable rear headrest

• Cabin width makes the interiors suitable for 4 adults

• Long-term reliability & after-sales service quality are to be seen

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