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A Citroen supermini to rival the Polo

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25 November 2009

Citroen C3 1.6 VTI 120ps Exclusive road test

Citroen C3 1.6 VTI 120ps Exclusive

Citroen C3 1.6 VTI 120PS Exclusive

What is it?

PERHAPS the most important Citroen ever. All-new C3 banishes its rather average predecessor to the history books with a stylish new look, raised quality and wide range of engines. Available in 1.1, 1.4 and 1.6-litre petrol form, along with two diesel units with three different power ratings. Tested here in flagship 1.6-litre VTi Exclusive trim. Goes on sale in the new year at a cost of approximately £14,600.

What’s hot?

  • Smart shape is distinctive, stylish and confident
  • Cabin quality is first class, layout clear and mature
  • Excellent Zenith panoramic windscreen gives a great view out
  • Petrol unit is smooth, quiet and peppy
  • Returns a decent 47.9mpg
  • Ride is comfortable yet taut enough for drama-free cornering
  • Start-stop versions due in 2010, three-cylinder engine in 2011

What’s not?

  • This flagship costs a whopping £14,600
  • CO2 emissions of 136g/km aren’t bad, but the diesels are sub 120g/km
  • Lifeless steering means there’s not much fun to be had
  • Six-speed box would make motorway cruising a bit quieter
  • Still some doubts over how quality will stand up…
  • …and questions over residuals too

What you need to Know?

P11D Value: 14,600 approx
Monthly Rental*: n/a
Tax Band when posted: 15%
Monthly BiK: n/a
Engine: 1.6-litre 4 cyl petrol
CO2 Emissions: 136g/km
Power/torque: 120PS/160Nm
Economy: 47.9mpg

Monthly contract hire (CH) and personal contract hire (PCH) rentals generated by Concept Vehicle Leasing. Based on a 36 month lease at 10,000 miles a year, 3+35 payments.

Business Car Manager Road Test Rating

Well done Citroen. The C3 is a brilliant supermini, one that can stand side-by-side with the Ford Fiesta and VW Polo. It combines just enough French quirkiness with solid build quality and a grown-up driving experience. This flagship is a desirable model, but business customers would be better off going for the Citroen C3 1.4-litre petrol versions.

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Ralph Morton

Ralph Morton

Ralph Morton is an award-winning journalist and the founder of Business Car Manager (now renamed Business Motoring). Ralph writes extensively about the car and van leasing industry as well as wider fleet and company car issues. A former editor of What Car?, Ralph is a vastly experienced writer and editor and has been writing about the automotive sector for over 35 years.

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