NOT SURE WHETHER to get a small car or an SUV? The new Citroën C3 could free you from your dilemma by letting you have a taste of both. Unlike its predecessor - which firmly planted its flag in small car territory - this fourth-generation model is taller and boxier, and features roof rails, underbody skid plates and two-tone paintjobs. If it weren't for its diminutive dimensions, it could almost be a rival for small SUVS such as the Jeep Avenger.
Better still, the C3's pumped-up looks haven't inflated the price. Citroën has kept pricing at small car levels by using new underpinnings that require 30% fewer components and therefore reduce production costs. The same applies to the electric version, the e-C3.
As a result, the petrol C3 starts at just £17,790 and undercuts our favourite small car, the £17,995 Renault Clio. Meanwhile, the e-C3's price of £21,990 makes it significantly cheaper than our favourite small electric car (EV), the £26,995 MG 4. And while Dacia's budget EV, the Spring, will cost even less (from £14,995) when it comes to the UK later this year, it's worth noting that the e-C3 is around 300mm longer and has more power, a significantly longer official range (199 miles versus 140) and a much more visually enticing interior.
Denne historien er fra August 2024-utgaven av What Car? UK.
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Denne historien er fra August 2024-utgaven av What Car? UK.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Lexus RZ
A stingy real-world range is taking some of the lustre off our posh electric SUV but a fix might be on the way
Peugeot 408
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Smart #1
Living with this small electric SUV has done nothing to change our minds; it's still among the best of its breed
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The Volkswagen T-Cross has always been upstaged by its bigger T-Roc sibling, but can it turn the tables after its recent facelift?
CHANGE OF SCENIC
Having evolved from a sensible MPV into a trendy electric SUV, the Renault Scenic could be a hit all over again. But that means beating tough rivals from Kia and Tesla
Skoda Superb
New executive hatchback joins the estate version in offering limo-like space at a keen price On sale July Price from £34,875
Renault Rafale
Hybrid-powered coupé SUV has its sights set on premium rivals, and is priced accordingly On sale Now Price from £42,195
Citroën C3, e-C3
Reborn small car gains SUV-like looks but retains a low price On sale November Price from £17,790 (petrol), £21,990 (electric)
Audi Q6 e-tron
Middle child of the premium brand's electric SUV line-up offers up to 392 miles of range On sale September Price from £69,700