Citroën C3

The Citroën C3 is a supermini automobile produced by the French manufacturer Citroën since 2003.

The C3 was launched as one of two replacements for the Citroën Saxo (the other is the smaller 3-doors Citroën C2). It was widely seen as a turning point for Citroën, reviving the marque's reputation for idiosyncratic, quirky design. It was designed by Donato Coco and Jean Pierre Ploué, previously known for authoring the Renault Twingo design, and head of the Citroën design team since 1999.

The C3 family received in July 2003 a new member in the form of the highly-adaptable C3 Pluriel, which can be configured as a convertible, a pick-up or a closed car thanks to its folding metal roof. In some ways the C3 Pluriel is a successor to the utilitarian Citroën Méhari of the 1970s.

The engine line-up of C3 is similar to the Saxo, with 1.1L, 1.4L and 1.6L petrol engines as well as a 1.4L diesel. In accordance with PSA Group policy, the C3's chassis will also be used for the upcoming Peugeot 1007.

The Saxo was one of the least spacious cars in the supermini sector. The C3 addressed this problem with one of the most spacious interiors in its class.

The C3 underwent a mild revamp in 2005. The exterior styling was changed slightly, most notably with clear crystal brake lights. Some minor interior changes were made, and Citroën also added a new 1.6HDi 16v 110bhp diesel engine. The Pluriel was not altered.

Engines

• 1.1L (1124cc) TU1 I4, 60PS (59hp/44kW) and 69ft·lbf (94N·m)
• 1.4L (1360cc) TU3 I4, 75PS (74hp/55kW) and 87ft·lbf (118N·m)
• 1.4L (1398cc) DV4 HDi Diesel I4, 70PS (69hp/51kW) and 118ft·lbf (160N·m)
• 1.4L (1360cc) ET3 16v I4, 90PS (89hp/66kW) and 98ft·lbf (133N·m)
• 1.6L (1560cc) DV6 HDi Diesel I4, 92PS (91hp/68kW) and 159ft·lbf (216N·m)
• 1.6L (1587cc) TU5 16v I4, 110PS (108hp/81kW) and 108ft·lbf (146N·m)