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New Car Reviews / Citroen / Citroen C3 Review

Citroen C3 Review & Road Test

Review by www.new-car-reviews.co.uk

Summary
The new C3 was launched in 2002 and heralds a new look for Citroen which has now extended down the range to the C2. The high sided, curvaceous design makes the new car look like a modern version of the classic 2CV.

The exterior dimensions of the Citroen C3 mean that passenger space is excellent, four adults can be accommodated with plenty of head and legroom in the front and rear. Practically the C3 provides plenty of storage space in the cabin; two glove boxes, optional under seat storage drawers and folding tables attached to the back of the front seats should cater for most needs. The boot is an average size for the class and comes with a 'Moduboard' fitting that allows the space to be split into three distinct compartments.

Following the innovative exterior styling the cabin also feels fresh - although materials do look and feel cheap and may result in squeaks and rattles as the C3 ages. Dials and controls are all easy to use and well laid out.

Engine choices include 1.4 and 1.6 litre petrol units and a 1.4 HDi diesel. None of the engines manage to deliver 'hot hatch' performance due to the weight of the C3, however they all deliver adequate performance. Ride and handling is also reasonable, body roll is well controlled and the firmer ride does not upset the car too much over uneven road surfaces.

On the move, visibility is generally quite good thanks to the high seating position - although it is a little compromised by the thickness of the pillars. The electric power steering is very light and helps to make the Citroen C3 feel very agile around town. Automatic versions are fitted with a SensoDrive system that adapts gear changes depending on driving style. This system can also be switched to manual sequential shift mode, which then uses steering wheel mounted paddle shifts to change gear.

Out of town and at higher motorway speeds, the Citroen C3 provides a reasonably quiet cabin, engine and road noise are both well controlled, however wind noise does rise to obtrusive levels - due primarily to its large pillars and high sided design

NCAP safety and security test
NCAP crash test result - 4/5
NCAP pedestrian test rating - 2/5

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Review ©2006 New-car-reviews.co.uk

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