The new C3 is a fun little car - cheery, characterful and French. And, like a lot of French things, it isn't cheap. You won't be buying this with your head but I don't think Citroen is expecting unemotional purchasers to darken its doors. You have to want it - you're not looking for startling performance figures or exceptional value, you're looking for something out of the ordinary.
Pros Great looks Fun engine Terrific ride
Cons Lack of AEB Touchscreen hardware a bit slow Over-enthusiastic stop-start
The third-generation C3 is an altogether more accomplished offering than the second-gen C3 it replaces, a frumpy and humpy hatchback with lacklustre performance that had its genesis way back in 2009. Instead, Citroen has reinvented the C3, adding not only some much-needed style, but also injecting a performance lift thanks to a new drivetrain.
Pros Oozes style Beautiful ride Spacious interior, front and rear Thrummy three-pot engine sings
Cons Auto transmission hesitant at low speeds No AEB or blind-spot, hence 4-star ANCAP Expensive for the category
The Citroen C3 has quirky looks and a cabin that’s comfortable unless you’re a tall person in the back. However, it’s hard to drive smoothly in town and the infotainment system is clunky.
Pros Comfortable suspension Quiet cabin Quirky styling
Cons Average rear-seat space Hard to drive smoothly Infotainment isn’t the best
Pros Striking exterior design Lots of standard kit and space Very low PCP monthly payments Plenty of personalisation Good to drive
Cons Plain interior design Ride just okay on rough roads Boot smaller than some rivals Entry-level 95hp petrol a little underpowered No Cupra planned (yet)
The five-door All-New Arona, a front-wheel-drive only SUV, is well placed in this highly popular sector of the car market.It’s available with a choice of six engines, with both the diesel and petrol variants offered in either 95PS or 115 PS form, and the sporty FR 1.5 TSI EVO leaping up to 150 PS.
Pros Very smart looking inside and out Good choice of engines Well equipped and overall good value
Cons No SatNav on basic model
The Seat Arona is quite possibly the best compact SUV of the moment. Good practicality, economy and solid driving manners are all Arona staples.It lacks the visual creativity of a Hyundai Kona or the customisation of a Citroen C3 Aircross, but its real-world strengths far outweigh having orange door mirrors. It’s a level-headed car for level-headed people.
Pros Refined 1.0-litre petrol Ergonomic infotainment system Good ride
Cons Humdrum looks Narrow middle seat Trim levels that dictate engine choice
