CITROEN’S CITY SLICKER

By: Graham Courtney - Motoring Correspondent

All of the talk in the world of cars is about electrification, but there are times when a lot of people don’t want to go down that route. Electric cars are expensive to buy and the current prices being charged by the power companies means the big savings for using a battery powered car are no longer seriously evident.

Electric cars are perfect for city living, but so too are frugal petrol and diesel cars.

Like the Citroen C3 for example.

When it comes to 5 door hatchbacks which will be equally happy on the school run as it will be going on family holidays, the Citroën C3 really does fit the bill.

Talking of bills, the C3 is not only terrific value for money, it will also be kind on your pocket in terms of running costs.

You can choose from 1.2 litre petrol or 1.6 litre diesel engines. The petrol motor is available with either 82bhp or 109bhp. If you intend doing a high mileage or travel with a decent load, go diesel and you’ll manage up to 65mpg. The petrol engines offer a bit more in terms of refinement and you’ll still manage in the region of 54mpg.

And with prices starting at £13,995, the Citroen C3 is one of the cheapest cars in the UK.

In terms of trim, we like the C-Series Edition, but even the entry level

You! trim comes with DAB radio, Bluetooth, LED headlights, air con, powered front windows and mirrors and tinted glass. Move up to C-Series and you add a reversing camera, colour touchscreen, powered rear windows, leather trimmed steering wheel and smart alloy wheels. The extra £3k makes the C3 feel a tad more special.

As with every Citroen, the C3 is extremely comfortable and the interior looks really smart. It’s a nice place to be.

You can also have some fun with the exterior colour and trim combinations. There are 93 different possibilities so your C3 could be unique. Careful though because at some point you’ll need to sell it and your idea of stylish may not appeal to everyone!

Out on the road we’d recommend the 6-speed automatic. It’s a smooth operator and seems to fit the car’s character really well, especially if you are mainly driving in town or slow traffic. The 0-60mph time of around 12 seconds means the C3 is no flying machine, but it doesn’t need to be for most people. The fact that it’s quiet and effortless to drive will be the big plus points.

So, if you are looking for a cost–effective car…both in terms of purchase and running costs, the Citroen C3 is a winner. The fact that it’s comfy, nice to drive and looks smart merely boosts its appeal.