Citroën C3 review: what the car critics say

The supermini has had a facelift in its fourth incarnation, but will it be enough to revive Citroën’s reputation for desirable small cars? Unlikely, said The Daily Telegraph. The new C3 is based on the same platform as the first, modelled on the 1998 Peugeot 206. Autonomous emergency braking is only available on the top-spec Shine Plus, despite being standard on most rivals. But its lack of frills does mean the C3 is cheap.

Petrol power comes from Citroën’s 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder engine, which is decent, with good fuel economy thanks to stop/start technology as standard; there’s also a 1.6 four-cylinder diesel option, said Auto Express. All C3s are front-wheel drive with a five-or six-speed gearbox, and there’s an improved quick-shifting EAT6 automatic option. Suspension is good, but there is some body roll in corners.

There are five trim levels and even the bottom spec is well kitted out with LED headlights, cruise control, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, a 7in infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and DAB radio, What Car? said. For a small car, there’s decent head- and legroom up front, but not much in the back, though it’s fine for kids. Boot space is average: big enough for a couple of suitcases. UK price: from £12,995.