Affordable small electric cars have been slow to gain traction, but the choices are gradually improving. Citroën is the latest brand to join the mix with its all-new C3 — offered as a full EV, as well as with petrol and hybrid powertrains.

Since its introduction, the C3 has been a cornerstone of Citroën’s line-up, accounting for around 30% of its global sales.

Design and Presence

Starting at €23,400 for the entry-level 1.2-litre petrol version, the new C3 makes a strong impression for a budget-friendly model. At 1.5 metres tall and 4 metres long, it has a confident stance, enhanced by stylish details such as skid plates and distinctive headlights.

A large windscreen helps create a bright, open feel inside, while SUV-style ground clearance adds practicality. That said, this remains a classic hatchback at heart — designed first and foremost for city driving.

Comfort First

Citroën has leaned into its comfort ethos, fitting the C3 with supportive “Advanced Comfort” seats and a suspension setup that smooths out bumps more gracefully than many rivals. These features are standard across the range, a pleasant surprise at this price point.

The cabin itself is a mix of affordability and practicality. A 10.25-inch touchscreen comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, though Stellantis — Citroën’s parent company — still lags behind competitors when it comes to infotainment tech. For comparison, Hyundai’s Inster EV offers a more advanced twin-screen layout.

On the Road

A short drive in the electric version highlighted the car’s relaxed character. The interior feels airy and comfortable, with good elbow room for front passengers. Rear-seat occupants, however, may find legroom restricted if the front seats are pushed too far back.

The boot prioritises depth over length, providing a useful 310 litres of space — expandable to 1,200 litres with the rear seats folded.

Powertrain Choices

Buyers can choose from three powertrain options:

• A 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol with a six-speed manual gearbox

• A hybrid version pairing the same engine with a 21 kW electric motor and automatic transmission

• A fully electric version, offering a claimed 320 km of range

Safety and Equipment

Even base models are well equipped. Standard features include lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, driver attention monitoring, hill start assist, and electronic stability control — on top of the comfort-oriented seating and suspension.

Price and Rivals

Pricing is competitive:

• 1.0-litre petrol manual: €23,400

• Hybrid automatic: €26,800

• EV: €23,400

The EV, while appealing, faces stiff competition. Hyundai’s Inster undercuts it with a sub-€20,000 starting price, while established names like the Toyota Yaris continue to dominate the small car segment. Still, Citroën’s blend of style, equipment, and comfort could make the C3 a strong alternative for city drivers seeking affordability with a touch of flair.