Test Drive: Citroen's Latest C3 Model - Compact Urban Vehicle Offering Electric Alternative
The Citroën C3 is back, and this time it's bigger, better, and more versatile. The French automaker has released the fourth generation of its popular small hatchback, offering electric, petrol, and hybrid versions to cater to a wider range of urban and sub-compact SUV buyers.
Citroën eC3: The Electric City SUV
The electric version of the C3, known as the eC3, features a 29.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and a motor delivering approximately 57 hp (56.21 bhp) and 143 Nm torque. With a claimed range of around 320 km (WLTP), the eC3 is perfect for city driving. In real-world tests, the range has been found to be approximately 232-257 km. The eC3 can reach 0-60 km/h in 6.8 seconds, with a top speed restricted to 107 km/h (80 km/h for commercial use).
The eC3 comes with a number of standard features, including a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, rear camera, keyless entry, parking sensors, and several safety aids including dual front airbags and ABS with EBD. However, it should be noted that the eC3 has a 0-star Global NCAP safety rating.
The eC3's design includes smart styling cues such as skid plates and headlights, giving it a crossover SUV feel. It has a length of approximately 3981 mm, a width of 1733 mm, and a wheelbase of 2540 mm, making it a 5-seater with a boot capacity of 315 litres.
Petrol and Hybrid C3 Models
The petrol and hybrid versions of the C3 offer modernized compact SUV styling and engines to compete with established cars like the Toyota Yaris and the Hyundai i20. The 4th-generation petrol C3 includes engines like the 1.1L TU1 I4 (60 hp) and 1.4L TU3 I4 (75 hp) petrol options, among others. The hybrid variant details are less clear but traditionally Citroën hybrids tend to blend petrol engines with electric power for efficiency and lower emissions.
One of the standout features of the petrol/hybrid C3 is its improved ground clearance (163 mm), creating a crossover SUV feel with more interior space compared to predecessors.
Comparisons with Hyundai i20 and Toyota Yaris
The Hyundai i20 and Toyota Yaris are well-established subcompact hatchbacks with petrol and hybrid variants. The Hyundai i20 typically offers competitive petrol and turbocharged engines, strong safety ratings, and updated infotainment. The Toyota Yaris hybrid is known for its efficient hybrid system and strong reliability, with electric range limitations but excellent fuel economy.
The Citroën eC3 stands out as an all-electric offering with a practical range suitable for city driving, though with lower safety ratings compared to these rivals. In features, the C3's French design and inclusion of technologies like a large touchscreen and advanced internet features are comparable to, or slightly behind, what Hyundai and Toyota offer. Boot space and dimensions are similar, with Citroën providing a compact SUV aesthetic that may appeal more to buyers wanting a crossover style.
Pricing and Equipment Levels
The starting price for the 1.2 litre petrol version of the C3 is €23,400. With competitive pricing and equipment levels, the C3 should be able to compete keenly in the subcompact hatchback market. The pricing for the eC3 and hybrid versions is not yet available.
In conclusion, the Citroën eC3 as an electric city SUV emphasizes French design, decent electric range, and urban usability but has safety rating drawbacks and a modest top speed. The petrol and hybrid C3s offer modernized compact SUV styling and engines to compete with the likes of the Hyundai i20 and Toyota Yaris, which are well-rounded with proven safety and hybrid tech. Buyers prioritizing all-electric drives and styling may favor Citroën, while those focusing on top safety scores and established hybrid technology may lean toward Toyota or Hyundai.
[1] Citroën C3 e-C4: Full specifications and pricing
[2] Citroën C3 e-C4: First drive review
[3] Hyundai i20: Full specifications and pricing
[4] Toyota Yaris: Full specifications and pricing
- The electric variant of the Citroën C3, the eC3, is equipped with a lithium-ion battery and delivers around 320 km (WLTP) of range, oustanding for city driving, but it has a 0-star Global NCAP safety rating.
- Offering modernized compact SUV styling and engines, the petrol and hybrid versions of the C3 compete with well-established models like the Toyota Yaris and Hyundai i20, providing engines such as the 1.1L TU1 I4 and 1.4L TU3 I4 petrol options.
- The Citroën eC3 offers French design, a large touchscreen, and advanced internet features, catering to buyers seeking a crossover style while the Hyundai i20 and Toyota Yaris models are known for strong safety scores, proven hybrid technology, and efficient fuel economy.
