Insurance Group: 10
MPG: 72.4
CO2: 101
0-62 Mph: 13.5 secs
BHP: 70 BHP
Range: 733 miles
PROS: The C3 1.4 HDi VTR diesel engine is affordable and its engine is refined and smooth. It offers a smooth ride and low running costs and is an attractive looking car.
CONS: The engine might be frugal but it lacks pull. The steering is overly light and body control is poor. Rear space is quite tight.
The C3's 1.4-litre engine develops 70bhp, hauling the car from 0-62mph in a respectable 13.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 101 mph.
When on the motorway, expect a smooth and quiet ride with pot-holes taken car of with aplomb. However, on twisty roads body roll becomes apparent and the car seems to lose grip quite easily. The steering is vague and the manual gearbox is sloppy.
Refinement is impressive even on the motorway as wind and road noise are barely audible. Rear visibility is not a problem.
Unique to the C3 is the Zenith windscreen which extends further back above the front seats. The dashboard is stylish, simple, clear, smart and laid-out sensibly. The driving position is not for everyone and the seats are a little unsupportive. Billed as a five seater, the rear seats are only really appropriate for children, with rear legroom in short supply.
The C3 1.4 HDi 16v VTR+ 5dr has electronic front windows, air-conditioning, alloy wheels, CD player and cruise control with a trip computer, electrically adjustable door mirrors, chrome window trim and of course the panoramic windscreen. Options are sat nav (£1150), metallic paint (£440), and electronic stability system (£330).
Boot space is ample at 300 litres, however the C3 lacks the option to fold the rear seats down to increase luggage space. The rear seats are cramped too and rivals from Ford and Volkswagen offer more interior space.
The overall Euro NCAP Occupant rating for the Citroen C3 1.4 HDi 16v VTR hatchback is 4/5. Safety kit includes driver and passenger airbags, ABS, Isofix and curtain airbags. Security features include deadlocks, central and remote locking and a unique fit stereo.
At £14,590 the C3 1.4 HDi 16v VTR+ 5dr Equipment is priced competitively, however its rivals from Ford and VW offer a better driving experience.
With an economy rating of 72.4mpg and a CO2 emission rating of 107g/km the C3 1.4 HDi 16v VTR is frugal and green. This version falls under insurance group 8 and Road Tax Band B, so running costs should be low. However, depreciation is steeper than average across the C3 range.
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