Citroën’s C3 is here to create trends, not follow them. This little hatchback with SUV characteristics adds personality to the streets in addition to style. It’s compact, useful, and perfect for commuters who want more out of their everyday journey without breaking the bank. Is it more than a nice face, though? Let’s examine what distinguishes this up-and-coming French candidate.
Aesthetics.
The CitroënC3 has a huge presence and a small footprint when it lands. Its hefty black cladding and increased 180mm ground clearance give it a beefed-up stance that makes it feel more like a crossover than a city vehicle. When you enter the C3, you are greeted by a simple yet thoughtful cabin. It is clear that comfort and utility are prioritised. The second row’s foldable seat and the front seats’ height adjustability give you options depending on whether you’re moving people or furniture.
Every model has a 10-inch touchscreen; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as standard features, and Wi-Fi enables wireless operation. The dash is updated by a 7-inch digital instrument cluster that looks straightforward and simple. The range-topping MAX AT model goes above and beyond with a 6-speed auto gearbox, a turbocharged engine, a leather steering wheel, and an electronic air conditioning system. It looks more expensive than you could think for this price.
The C3 has 315 liters of boot space, which is sufficient for weekend luggage, a good shopping run, or two overnight bags for that impromptu road trip, despite its small size. Particularly with the manual versions’ sub-6L/100km economy, the 30-liter tank keeps it light at the pumps. Additionally, parking in congested metropolitan areas is a breeze because the turning circle is less than 11 meters.
Performance.
The sweet spot is the MAX 1.2 Turbo 6AT. When you ask, it genuinely hustles thanks to its 81kW and 205Nm. For someone who wants extra power without going all hot hatch, it’s smooth, sophisticated, and ideal. Important driving aids like hill-hold and Electronic Stability Control are also included in the automatic version, which helps the vehicle feel stable and secure on the road, even in unpredictable Johannesburg traffic or the winding streets of Cape Town.
Convenience and Safety.
The C3 takes safety quite seriously for a little hatch. Dual front, side, and curtain airbags, rear parking sensors, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX child seat fixings are standard on all versions. With the addition of a rearview camera and necessary driving aids like ESC and hill-hold, the MAX automatic version offers peace of mind without breaking the bank.
Summary.
The 2025 Citroën C3 is a mildly sporty, enjoyable hatchback that excels in terms of design, affordability, and city utility. It succeeds precisely because it doesn’t aim to please everyone. The C3 is worth taking a close look at if you’re a student, young professional, or someone who is downsizing without sacrificing quality.
Gottagged Rating.
6.9 / 10
Pricing.
Retail Price: R302 900
You benefit from roadside assistance and warranty included for 5 years / 100 000 km and service plan for 2 years / 30 000 km.