Citroën C3 hatchback (2009-2016) - Interior & comfort

Developing the Citroen C3 and Citroen DS3 alongside each other has allowed the brand to take two different approaches. While the DS3 is quite sporty, the C3 is unashamedly comfortable, with soft suspension designed to soak up bumps and seats designed for long trips rather than gripping you in corners. The interior is a light and airy place to be and remains quiet at speed, blocking out noise from the engine and road well. Our only real quibble with the comfort is that the seats could do with being a bit more supportive at the sides.

Citroen C3 dashboard

Material quality on top-of-the-range trim levels is good, with attractive leather highlights that are pleasing to touch. The top-spec version even has a removable scented pod, which wafts its fragrance through the air vents.

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Entry-level models don’t feel as upmarket, but still benefit from a painted dashboard insert, which lifts the ambience.

Equipment

The Citroen C3 is available in VT, Edition and Platinum trim levels. The entry-level trim is very basic. A CD player, remote central locking and trip computer are standard, but you’ll need to upgrade to Edition to get air-conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity and leather cabin trim.

The range-topping Platinum grade brings the panoramic Zenith windscreen, climate control, folding door mirrors and ambient lighting. Citroen traditionally offers good discounts, so it’s worth looking out for special deals or haggling to secure a better specification.

Options

Options include rear parking sensors for £270 and the Zenith windscreen for £300. The sat-nav system, complete with reversing camera and parking sensors, costs £950. Those wanting better sound should consider the optional bass box, which fits in the boot and costs £275.

There are also two options packs available, depending on which model you buy. The Visibility Pack, which costs £160, is available for the Platinum trim and adds rain-sensitive windscreen wipers, automatic illumination of headlamps, an electrochrome rear-view mirror and some LED lights.

Available on Edition models, the Comfort Pack costs £399 and adds a front central armrest with storage, rear parking sensors and rear electric windows.