The automotive company Stellantis South Africa is expecting their 2023 launch of the new Citroen C3 to have a huge impact on the South African market. The award-winning Citroen C3 may catapult the French brand to a new level. 1
The New Citroen C3’s Strategy
The manufacturer decided to introduce the C3 as a budget crossover to the South African market at a considerably lower price than its hatchback predecessor. This makes the C3 a strong competitor against cars such as the Nissan Magnite, Renault Kruger, and Suzuki Ignis. 1
How Did Citroen Manage to Lower the C3’s Price?
Citroen has partnered with a new manufacturer which has contributed to the lower cost. . Citroen also changed the entire package and the engine. But that doesn’t mean the C3 is a ‘cheap’ version because it clinched the World Urban Car of the Year in 2023. 1
What’s the C3’s Interior Like?
Citroen is world-famous for its quality interior designs, and the C3’s interior is no exception, despite being a budget crossover. The size of the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system has raised the standard in this segment. The system also provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, which is impressive at this price level. The seating is firm and comfortable, while most interior trim comprises solid, acceptable plastic. 1
Space at the C3’s Rear
The 315 litres of boot space is sufficient, but you can lower the back of the rear seat to create more.1,2
The C3’s Performance
As of May 2023, the C3 range only has a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine generating 61 kW power and 115 Nm torque. This makes the C3’s engine one of the most powerful in its segment, providing quick acceleration. The engine connects with a 5-speed manual gearbox, which provides effortless gear shifting. 1
How Does the C3 Drive?
The C3’s drive is comfortable and smooth, with good cornering characteristics. However there is a degree body roll, which means that the car leans more on one side, towards the original direction of the car’s travel before cornering. This body roll happens at higher speeds due to the crossover’s soft suspension.1,3
Safety Features of the New Citroen C3
The new C3 has ABS brakes with EBD, and dual front airbags, however it does not include electronic stability control This is not unusual, and only the Suzuki models have stability control in this segment. The C3 has rear-parking sensors that can assist with smoother parking.1
Price of the New Citroen C3
As of May 2023, the Citroen C3 1.2 Feel sells for R229,900. 1
Disclaimer
This article reviews the Citroen C3 for sale in South Africa in 2023. 1
If you are going to buy a new Citroen C3 with bank finance, the law requires you to purchase comprehensive car insurance. Why not contact us at PMD so that we can spoil you with our
world-class client service? We’ll inform you more about our affordable car insurance products with their particular benefits, such as fixed premiums* and reducing excess*. T’s and C’s apply.
It’s best to consult a certified financial advisor for professional advice before buying a financial services product.
Source:
1https://www.cars.co.za/motoring-news/citroen-c3-2023-launch-review/163832/
3 https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/articles/lean-less-what-body-roll-and-how-reduce-it/
This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.