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
Oh yes, it’s another dinky SUV. But it’s hard to be angry at something wearing the face of a robotic chipmunk like this Peugeot 2008 does.It’s an aesthetically pleasing thing all round, really, looking like it was designed from the off as an individual model. As opposed to the old 2008, which had the demeanour of a 208 hatchback carrying Christmas weight. This new one looks big, mind, and indeed it’s longer and more commodious than before.
Pros Fancy dials, great petrol engines and a decent EV
Cons Firm (ish) ride, pricey if you tick too many boxes
Pros Eye-catching design inside and out Broad range of engine options Cabin is spacious, plus big boot
Cons Top-spec models can be pricey 3D digital dials take some getting used to Driving position still won’t suit all
Stylish inside and out with plenty of substance to match, the Peugeot 2008 is a polished and practical small SUV. Its ride and handling may not particularly inspire, and the high-spec models are incredibly pricey, but the lower-end – and still decently equipped – versions are thoroughly recommendable.
Pros Brilliant interior quality Excellent rear seat space Frugal engines
Cons Bumpy low speed ride Top models are very expensive Average-size boot with rear seats up
