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strong, vertical C-pillar – is immediately noticeable. The distinctive rear taillight design
is formed from three geometric forms that was first seen on the 2022 Citroën Oli
concept vehicle.
Democratic: All-new C3 inspired by the very people who will drive it
By Ali Mphaki
Do manufacturers ever listen, or are they like politicians whose only language they understand is the toyi-toyi?’ Should the ever-unsuspecting motorist swallow hook, line, and sinker all what a manufacturer says when they claim to have listened to the feedback from specific groups of potential customers – young professionals, students, parents or homemakers – to fully understand what they want in a hatchback?
“Yehlisan’umoya maqabane” (Cease fire comrades!). “Fear not. We’ve heeded the call,” says Stellantis SA, proudly unleashing the all-new Citroen C3, a vehicle said to be a “democratic” project – conceived by Citroën designers and product development engineers with current customer demands firmly in mind.
To drive the point further home, nothing stops Stellantis SA from informing us that Citroën’s design has been inspired “by the very people who will drive the all-new C3”.
Now that’s BOLD PR speak, if you ask me. But far from being hype, the C3 has already made its presence felt in the cut-throat world of motoring – notching the 2023 World Urban Car award at the 19th World Car Awards.
Noticeable is its unique yet consistent design language that makes it stand apart from other offerings in the market.
Its face is instantly recognisable with its ‘Y’-form language lighting signature and traditional chevrons located at the centre of the grille. The Citroën logo stands alone, separated from the two horizontal chrome bars extending towards the daytime running lamps on either side of the car.
This is a key element of the Citroën’s evolving new brand identity. Stellantis is also confident that the new C3’s crossover design and class-leading infotainment system will make it an attractive contender for prospective buyers.
Moreover, would-be owners specifically asked for maximum comfort for everyone on board.
As a result, C3 occupants enjoy a commanding driving and seating position, while the plunging bonnet, windscreen angle, and side windows offer outstanding visibility.
There is an abundance of comfort and generous space for everyone inside the C3. Rear seat headroom is class-leading with excellent elbow and knee room. Smart storage is plentiful.
As well as a 1-litre glovebox and centre console area, 2-litre front door pockets hold a 1-litre bottle, and there are 1-litre pockets on the rear doors. Under the bonnet is Citroën’s acclaimed PURETECH 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine, with 61kW available and 115Nm of torque.
Stellantis say but the real advantage will be felt at the fuel pumps, with the new C3 using just 5.6 litres/100km. The C3 range will be further expanded with a high-grade model, an automatic option as well as a compact SUV in the near future.
