It was last month when Citroen launched the C3 at a starting price of Rs 5.7 lakh. This is the company's 2nd offering for India and competes in various categories. These include the micro SUV space as well as premium hatchbacks. The C3 does look unconventional and has started off to a good start in terms of bookings and deliveries. We drove the car a few weeks back in Goa and do check out our review video below. Also, if you are in the marker for a Rs 6-8 lakh vehicle, our pros and cons will definitely come handy. Read on...
Citroen C3 Pros
Performance
One of the biggest USPs of the Citroen C3 is the turbo engine on offer. This one puts out 110 bhp of power and 190 Nm of torque, making it best in segment. Yes, it is more powerful and generates even higher torque than the more expensive Magnite Turbo and Kiger Turbo SUVs. Pedal to metal, the C3 turbo is quick and yet will reward owners with excellent fuel economy. Priced at Rs 8.05 lakh for the turbo version, this is one of the best pocket rockets in India
Ride quality
This is something that Citroen is known for worldwide. The C3 carries forward this strong point and offers a great ride over all kind of terrains. Small cars usually aren't too good over broken tarmac but this new Citroen brings a wave of change. Even at higher speeds, the composure is great and the suspension aids driver confidence too.
Looks good
With about a dozen options in the same price range, Citroen has managed to give the C3 its own unique identity. The C3 looks good enough and the colours on offer are great. The contrast finish for various body elements looks funky and ditto for the wheel caps which look a lot like alloy wheels from a distance. At the same time, owners can further improve the aesthetics via the long list of features on offer. Size wise too, the C3 is good, being taller than the Magnite for instance.
Great cabin
Another highlight for the C3 is the cabin. It looks unconventional and the contrast finish for panels is evident here too. There are good bits like the design of the central vents and the flat bottom steering wheel. The interiors also feel airy and thanks to the longest wheelbase in the segment, there is good space for four adults. The boot, at 315 litres, is also decent in size. Like the exteriors, the interiors too can be enhanced with the official accessories.
Citroen C3 Cons
No automatic
Yes, this is a surprise but Citroen did go ahead without an automatic for the C3. The company had been planning to launch this model for years now and should have had an auto 'box in the first place. Both the non turbo and turbo engines get a manual gearbox only.
Lack of features
The C3 is sold in just two trims of Feel and Live and these aren't too feature loaded. In this modern era where almost all cars end up spoiling customers with features, the C3 feels left out. To name a few omissions, you do not get alloy wheels, powered outside mirrors, climate control system, rear wiper, reverse camera or even a tachometer. If you want all this, look elsewhere!
Verdict
Apart from the two shortcomings discussed above, the Citroen C3 is a well packaged product. The company has promised that an automatic will come soon and we urge them to add the missing features in a new range topping version as well. What do you feel about C3? Let us know in our TELEGRAM group.
