Révolution Française

After the C5 Aircross, Citroën India impinged upon the other end of the market with the C3. Now they aspire to contribute significantly to India's electric vehicle (EV) revolution with the ëC3

- Joshua Varghese

EXPECTATIONS OF A HIGH ACHIEVER are always astronomical. Their prowess in the past encourages one to expect the world of them in the present. Personally, I was looking forward to driving the eC3 because it came from a manufacturer who has won multiple World Rally Championship (WRC) championships, introduced an innovative suspension system, and given us groundbreaking cars, including the Traction Avant, DS, and the iconic 2CV. A portfolio that currently includes the flagship C5 Aircross SUV and the C3 now shows the addition of the electric version of the latter, the ëC3, just six months after the launch of its internal combustion engine (ICE) sibling.

The C3 platform was developed for both ICE and battery electric vehicle (BEV) models and, therefore, the C3 is almost identical to the C3. In the absence of the badge and the green number-plates, telling them apart would be a tough task. For a car that is only 3.981-millimetres long, the Citroën designers have created a chic and modern exterior that holds at least one element of interest, regardless of which angle you choose to behold it from. The new Citroën logo blends into the chrome strips at the front while the contrast colour for the fog-lamp recesses add to the visual drama.

The designers' play with the contrast continues in a small but noticeable way for the profile, also thanks to a splash of colour on the front doors' cladding. Similar treatment has been given for the rear as well, though, in comparison, it appears to be this car's least attractive angle. The car we drove also had a youthful dual-tone treatment that I appreciated but if that is not your fancy, Citroën offer up to three accessory packs and 47 customization options to choose from.