New Citroen C3, e-C3, has to be seen

A whisker over four metres long, the new Citroen e-C3 enters the small car segment 
with no small amount of confidence, talent and presence. Having spent a few hours 
in its company at its Irish launch, and sampling its various power offerings, it 
certainly qualifies as a test drive candidate for anyone seeking a mobile solution in 
this very competitive segment. 
Propulsion 
Power choice is a triple choice of their 3-cylinder, 1.2 litre petrol, an electric mild- 
hybrid, (€29,200) and their full electric, (€25,650), all with a persona of their own, 
all delivering a very decent drive, with comfort normally expected in the larger 
segments. 
Some of the Competition 
The introductory model is priced from €23,400 for that 1.2 litre petrol, where the 
new C3 enters the fray against some serious competition, among which, the Toyota 
Yaris, Hyundai Inster, VW Polo, Peugeot e-208, Dacia Spring and Hyundai i20, all 
vie to capture your Euros. All stand taller than before, offering ease of entry and exit, 
but it is in the overall package that this modern B-segment SUV/Crossover will excel. 
First impressions 
Walking to the new Citroen e-C3, I like the proportions and stance of this fourth- 
generation car, my test car dressed in complete black and standing on 17” wheels. 
There is no getting away from the large chevron badge in the centre of the front grill 
and rear boot lid, a bold, proud statement of its origin. Squarish design, with an 
accentuated body trim around its arches, front, rear and side sills, the new C3 exudes 
an off-road vibe, but this is more fashion then function. It is nonetheless very easy on 
the eye and definitely has its own identity. Like many cars, the chosen colour 
expresses much about the owner and the car itself. Available also in a bi-tone colour 
scheme, the e-C3 exudes a real premium presence and is sure to be popular. 
Inside Story 
Internally, it is welcoming, the small, squared-off steering wheel immediately tactile 
in your hands, Citroens ‘Comfort Seats’ bring you immediately to a level of decadence 
normally reserved for the more luxury segments. Setting itself out as a five-door, 
five-seat crossover, the C3 is roomy at 1,795mm wide, immediately airy, the raised 
driver console well placed to provide a clear, unobstructed view, while the 10.25” 
screen provides access and information on the cars, infotainment, security and 
comfort systems. It also supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.