The all-new Citroën C3 promise to make a splash in the SA market
Since being launched in 2002, the Citroën C3 has made quite the impression as a B-segment vehicle. Over the years, this compact French vehicle has become a well-respected nameplate. Of course, the market is still very much competitive, so finding ways to improve an already popular model is crucial. That why in 2016, Citroën introduced their newly revised third generation C3. Now in 2021, it has hit the one million mark in terms of vehicles produced at the factory in Trnava, Slovakia. The C3 has also become one of 2020’s top three selling vehicles within its segment in Europe.
As pointed out the C3 success story can go on and on, so the question is what does this all-new C3 have in store for us? For starters, its Feel model will produce a nifty 60kW of power. It gets powered by its familiar 1.2-litre PureTech engine is certain to leave one feel confident on the road. The Shine models will be a step up from the Feel as it produces a quicker 81kW. It gets paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox and rides on 16-inch wheels.
The C3 has cemented itself as its own as its unique and distinctive design is guaranteed to catch some eyes on the road. Its bubbly and colour personality will be emphasized through its six distinctive exterior colours. Consumers can take it a step further by choosing from Onyx Black or Opal White contrasting roof colours too.
The C3 has been broken down into Feel and Shine models. The Shine model is on top of the range however as it benefits from a range of additional features such as bi-tone colour options and an additional 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that offers both Android Auto and Apple Carplay. Auto Wipers, Rear Parking Sensors, as well as Auto Dim Rear-view Mirrors, will be available on the Shine models too.
To ensure complete comfort, the C3 will come with noise-canceling upgrades that get further complimented by Advanced Comfort seats. Driver Attention Warning and a Coffee Break Alert will give the drivers extra peace of mind behind the wheel. Safety too has become a priority for the C3 as it will come with ABS, EBA, EBD, TCS, and ESP. Speed Limit Recognition and Recommendation that reads speed limit signs for you and communicates them via the driver’s display will be available too as well as Cruise Control.
Pricing
C3 1.2 Pure Tech Feel 60kW R269 900
C3 1.2 Pure Tech Shine 81kW R324 900
Also worth a look: the New Citroën Aircross: Family-Friendly and Feature-Packed and the Citroen C3.
FAQ
Q: What does the Citroën C3 cost in South Africa?
The Citroën C3 Feel starts at around R280,000 while the range-topping Shine model will set you back approximately R320,000, making it a competitively priced option in the B-segment hatchback market.
Q: Is the Citroën C3 worth buying in 2024?
Absolutely, the C3 offers excellent value with its distinctive French styling, solid build quality, and competitive pricing that undercuts many German rivals by R30,000 to R50,000 while still delivering modern features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Q: How much power does the Citroën C3 produce?
The C3 Feel produces 60kW from its 1.2-litre PureTech engine, while the Shine variant bumps this up to 81kW and pairs it with a smooth 6-speed automatic gearbox for better performance.
Q: What are the main differences between C3 Feel and Shine models?
The Shine adds 21kW more power, a 6-speed auto gearbox, 16-inch wheels, 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration, auto wipers, rear parking sensors, and bi-tone colour options over the base Feel model.
Q: Is the Citroën C3 reliable for South African conditions?
Yes, the C3's proven 1.2-litre PureTech engine has been tested globally with over one million units produced, and Citroën's improved local dealer network provides decent support for servicing and parts availability.
Should You Buy It?
The best French hatchback under R350,000 in SA is definitely the Citroën C3 Shine at R320,000. This little French charmer offers something genuinely different in a sea of boring German boxes, with its bubbly personality, bi-tone colour options, and that distinctively Gallic flair that makes every school run feel like a trip through Provence. The 81kW engine provides adequate punch for SA conditions, while the 6-speed auto makes traffic jams bearable. Sure, it's not the most practical choice if you need boot space for the entire extended family, but if you want character, decent kit, and a price that won't require a second mortgage, the C3 Shine hits the sweet spot. Buy it if you're tired of blending into traffic and want a car with actual personality.
