A new 1,2-litre three-cylinder Puretech petrol engine, has replaced the previous 1,4-litre engine and at 60kW makes 6kW or 15% more than the larger unit and generates the same amount of torque, at lower rpm.
Fuel consumption levels can be as low as 4,7l per 100km, achieved with a CO² output of a mere 109g per km. Emissions are 25% lower than the 1,4.
The alternative to the triple is the existing 1,6-litre VTi, rated at a useful 88kW and a user-friendly 160Nm which, when coupled to the C3's wind-cheating 0,30 CD and light yet strong construction, results in lively performance.
For those who prefer the high mileage benefits of a diesel, the C3 is still available with the HDi 90 Airdream engine. This 68kW and 230Nm 1,6-litre powerplant with micro-hybrid e-HDi technology returns CO² emissions as low as 98g per km and fuel consumption in the order of 3,7-litre per 100km in mixed driving conditions.
As an added bonus, the Puretech 1,2 and 1,6 e-HDi, fall well under the threshold for CO² tax, while the 1,6 VTi attracts minimal penalty thanks to a rating of just 136g per km.
Styling is more assertive thanks to bumper-mounted LED daytime running lights on Seduction and Exclusive models, more prominent trademark chevrons which run the width of the nose to reach the inner edges of the headlights, while a deeper front air intake with honeycomb mesh brings it in line with other Citroën models.
The impression is of a car which has become more sophisticated and grown-up.
From the rear the changes are less obvious, but the chrome eyebrow above the tail light clusters, now with distinctive 'pockets' for each lighting function, set it apart from its predecessor.
A new colour – Ink Blue – expands the choice to six hues.
AMBIENCE
The famous Zenith roof continues on the exclusive model, flooding the cabin of flagship models with natural light, while a simple pull action co-vers the upper reach of the panoramic windscreen for a cosier ambience.
Touches of chrome add a distinctive style while a new dashboard cross strip is finished in Tungsten or Moondust depending on the model.
Both colours complement the new upholstery which, with three distinct textures, combine sportiness, warmth, and support. More liberal use of bright metal finishes highlight specific controls and staying with the sensory, Citroën continues to offer an integrated air freshener, so that the nose as well as the eyes and nerve-endings get to enjoy the experience.
Citroën continues with a three tier trim structure, namely Attraction, Seduction and Exclusive. The latter model is also available with an automatic transmission rather than five-speed manual, which is the default.
Exclusive models can also be ordered with a reverse camera and park distance sensors and a satellite navigation system for a full house of convenience features. It comes fitted with an enhanced infotainment package, which links Bluetooth, Aux jack and USB port – a package jointly known as the Connecting Box.
But it isn't all about fun and games: the Exclusive boasts six airbags, the Seduction four and the Attraction two. All three spec levels include ABS+EBD, OBA, ISOFIX, impact tensioning seatbelts and side impact protection.
DETAILS
Standard price includes a three year or 100 000km warranty and a service plan which runs to four years or 60 000km.
There is a special launch price on the Attraction model of R149 900. Other prices are: VTi 82 Attraction - R166 900; VTi 82 Seduction - R177 900; e-HDi 90 Seduction - R213 900; VTi 120 Seduction - R196 900; VTi 120 Seduction Auto - R211 900; VTi 120 Exclusive - R222 900.
Interior colours complement the new upholstery and there are two colour combinations available - Tungsten and Moondust.
Although the car is compact, it has a generous 300-litre boot.
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