Citroen Reveals Comfortable New C3

The new Citroen C3 was revealed today in Lyon by Citroen’s Engish CEO Linda Jackson.

The key benefit of the 3^rd generation C3 is Citroen’s ‘Advanced Comfort Programme’. The important way in which Citroen intends to differentiate its unique brand in the future.

While new DS suspension systems are still to come in the next C4, the new Citroen C3 offers comfortable seating for four six footers and a child, a spacious, uncluttered interior and a 300 litre loadspace within its 3990mm length.

It’s good looking rather than revolutionary, with an interesting, centrally indented roof.

Citroen describes it as a “love at first sight” car. It somehow bridges the gap between loyal C3 customers (of which there have been 3.5 million), “conquest customers” attracted by its modernity and style, and younger customers who will enjoy its multiple connectivity.

As well as Mirrorlink and Apple Car Play, this even extends to the unique, first time in a passenger car feature of a built-in GPS connected forward camera. With a 120-degree field of view, full HD and 16Gb capacity, this allows the driver to record journeys, take photographs and, more importantly, automatically secures 30 seconds of video before a bump and 60 seconds afterwards.

As well as excellent forward visibility through its panoramic front screen, an important safety feature is daytime running lights front and rear, avoiding drivers setting off at night on their front DRLs with rear lights unlit.

There are three main trim levels, the third of which offers two tone paint, side ‘Airbumps’ and 36 paint combinations.

Engines are the familiar well-proven 1.2 litre 3 cylinder PureTechs with 68, 82 or 110HP Diesels are 1.6HDIs with 75 or 100HP. And the optional automatic is the 6-speed compact torque converter EAT6.

Finally, under the load floor, not just a space saver, but a full size spare wheel.

Citroen C3 Mk III press test-drives take place in October and the car goes on sale in the UK in January 2017.