The Citroën C3 is an absolute success, both nationally and internationally. In our country, this model has consistently been the best-selling car for several years, and on a global scale, it remains a top-seller with over 5.6 million units sold since the launch of the first generation in 2002. This car is so crucial for Citroën that it accounts for a whopping 29% of the brand's sales in Europe. Renewing such a success story naturally comes with risks, but Citroën embraced this challenge wholeheartedly in designing the new generation.
The exterior of this new C3 is notably different from its predecessors. It no longer fits the traditional B-segment category; instead, it exhibits strong crossover features with SUV elements. It also introduces Citroën's new distinctive identity, including the new oval logo and a reinterpretation of the iconic Citroën chevrons. The new design language is more angular and exudes a modern appearance, inspired by the striking "Oli" concept car from 2022.
The fourth generation of the C3 measures 4.01 meters in length and 1.76 meters in width. The most significant increase is the higher ground clearance of 16.3 centimeters, compared to 13.5 centimeters in the previous generation. The car stands at 1.57 meters in height, only 1.9 centimeters taller than its predecessor, with a width increase of just 6 millimeters. Inside, there is more elbow room, with an additional 1.9 centimeters at the rear and 2.1 centimeters at the front, according to Citroën.
As for the driving experience, the new C3 offers a driving position that is a remarkable 10 centimeters higher than the average city car in this segment. Furthermore, headroom is 3 centimeters greater than the previous generation. The trunk is highly flexible thanks to the 60/40 foldable rear seat (standard on the "Max" variant). With the rear seat upright, you have a spacious 310-liter cargo area at your disposal.
The new Citroën C3 is built on the "Smart Car" platform from Stellantis, originally designed for electric cars but also used for combustion engine models, including those not available in Europe such as the Indian and South American models from the brand. The ë-C3, with its electric powertrain, is propelled by an 83 kW (113 hp) electric motor, powered by a 44 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery, resulting in an impressive range of 320 WLTP kilometers. The battery can be fast-charged with direct current at up to 100 kW, meaning it takes only 26 minutes to go from 20% to 80% charge. In the case of alternating current charging, you have the choice of 7 or 11 kW (three-phase), requiring just 2 hours and 50 minutes to reach the same charge level.
While the electric C3 doesn't offer rocket-like performance, that's not surprising given its power. With a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 11 seconds and a top speed of 135 km/h, you can easily keep up with traffic. For the first time, the ë-C3 features a new head-up display that presents crucial driving information on a glossy black area between the dashboard and the windshield. The steering wheel is smaller than before and can be adjusted in height and depth for an optimal driving position. The 10.25-inch infotainment screen is slightly tilted towards the driver for convenient use.
Furthermore, the new C3 is equipped with various driver assistance systems and advanced technologies, including an emergency braking system, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, intelligent high beams, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and more. This demonstrates that the new C3 is not only up-to-date in terms of design but also in terms of technology.
In summary, the new Citroën C3 represents an exciting evolution of an iconic model, with a refreshed design, improved interior space, efficient electric powertrain, and advanced technologies. It embodies the future of urban mobility and is ready to continue its impressive legacy.
