Citroen India is ready to make their entrance in the premium hatchback category with the introduction of the C3.
With the introduction of the C5 Aircross SUV, Citroen India kicked off their Indian innings. This premium product was a showcase to what the brand can deliver in terms of refinement, comfort and overall packaging. With the C5 setting the tone, the company is now ready with the C3 hatchback that will compete in the most popular car segment prevalent in India, the premium hatchback market.
Design
Citroen C3 is a premium compact hatchback that gets a fair share of SUV styling cues which makes it stand out from the crowd. Up front you get a neat set of headlights with the LED DRLs and turn indicators running above them like brows. The dual chrome lines that run across the front and form the Citroen logo in the middle is a standard design element found on all Citroen products. The front bumper comes with neatly integrated fog lamps that add to the sporty appeal of the car. Bonnet has a neat, sculpted shape and this same design element can be seen on the front fenders as well. From the side, the SUV stance is more visible and further enhanced by the roof rails, two-tone look along with the side cladding. The rear is nicely rounded off and taillights are the standout feature here. Citroen C3 rides on 15-inch tyres and boasts of a 180mm of ground clearance.
Interior
Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the Citroen C3 is surprisingly spacious on the inside. The cabin has an airy touch to it which is enhanced by the way Citroen has utilized the space within the cabin to ensure that everyone has enough room on board. The plastics are at par with what you find in other cars of this segment and the fit and finish is commendable. The feature that grabs your eye is the large touchscreen infotainment system. It is a neat unit that offers you a plethora of connected features and has a nice response as well. Seats are finished in fabric and have been crafted from fine materials with an excellent stitch. The boot can take a few bags and is well appointed for a car this size with a total capacity of 315 litres. You do get steering mounted controls for basic functions as well as small storage spaces throughout the cabin and there are enough charging ports for devices on board too.
Engine & Performance
Citroen is offering the C3 with a choice of two engine options. While both units are 1.2 litres in displacement, the lower range will get the naturally aspirated version that makes 82 PS of power and 115 Nm of peak torque, while the higher variants will get the turbocharged version that churns out a solid 110 PS of power and a maximum torque of 190 Nm! Citroen will offer the 1.2L naturally aspirated version with a 5-speed manual while the turbocharged variant will get a 6-speed manual.
Verdict
Overall, the Citroen C3 is as an excellent product in the premium hatchback segment. Yes, it could have done with a few extra features, but considering the sheer number of accessories that Citroen is offering, you will be able to customize the C3 to your liking. It is a fun car that has a youthful touch.
Expected Price: INR 5.50-8.00 lakh
