long-term test
Shining bright
Stand-out styling and a superb powertrain do make this little car shine
Driver: Peter Palm PeterPalm12
9 months 6 250 km 7,38 L/100 km
+ good looking and lots of fun
- lack of an armrest and proper drinks holders
What is immediately striking about the latest C3’s styling (as it should be) is the clever incorporation of the company’s famous logo. The double-helical gear goes back to André Citroën’s first factory which made ... you guessed it ... gears. Where the bonnet and grille meet is shaped to include the logo, supported by double chrome grille strips. These, in turn, incorporate the LED running lights. The latest trend of a triple layer of lighting is used with LEDs at the top, headlamps below and foglamps in the lowest bumper section. Various colour schemes are on offer but this one is particularly impressive. Some may say it’s over-the-top, with the red roof and mirrors and black bumpers and air bump sides. The fact that most of the car is white – usually a rather boring if practical choice in South Africa – means that the overall effect is a pleasant blend of understated with sporty elements. It helps to find your car in car parks, too.
The air bumps are inherited from the previous C3 Aircross and are a special Citroën feature. These are useful in preventing shopping cart dings.
Touchscreens, no matter the car, have come in for some criticism from us lately. No matter how large and impressive they may look, you have to take your eyes off the road to ensure you press the right spot. Uneven roads hamper this as you try to
