Citroen DS3 DSport

The Citroen DS3 is the French carmaker’s rival for the MINI, Audi A1 and Alfa Romeo MiTo. Like the best in the class, deciding on the small Citroen is only the beginning of your journey as there are almost endless ways you can personalise your car, with a long list of optional extras.

The Citroen DS3 DSport sits at the top of the DS3 range. It’s available with either a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol with 153bhp, or a more efficient 118bhp 1.6-litre diesel. There is only the option of a six-speed manual transmission.

Both engines are efficient, with the 118bhp diesel returning 78.5mpg while the more powerful 160bhp petrol averages 50.4mpg.

Like the rest of the range, standard equipment levels are good. The DSport comes with climate control, 17-inch alloys wheels, the option to contrast the roof colour, Bluetooth hands-free calling and the firm’s eTouch system – a panic button that puts you in touch with the emergency services or Citroen’s recovery service.

Good points

The Citroen DS3 remains a genuine alternative to the MINI Cooper. It might not be quite as much fun to drive, but its better ride comfort will make it easier to live with.Inside, the small Citroen has an interior that feels well made, with a logical and nicely constructed dashboard.Both engines perfectly match the DS3’s fun nature and each comes with brilliantly low running costs.

Bad points

Practicality isn’t a strong point of the Citroen DS3. It's only available as a three door, and adults will struggle to access the rear seats.Worse still, once there, they'll feel cramped and uncomfortable, especially on longer journeys.The boot is small, and on the move you'll notice a lot of unwanted wind and road noise permeates into the cabin. Be careful with the options list, too, as extras can be pricey.

What you get

• Alloy wheels
• Folding rear seats
• Electric folding wing mirrors
• Passenger & Driver airbag
• Front side airbags
• Curtain airbags
• Auto climate control
• Leather steering wheel
• Single CD player
• Cruise control
• Automatic wipers
• Sports suspension
• Sports seats
• Bluetooth

Recommended optional extras

• Reversing camera
• Satellite navigation

Our choice

Our choice would be the turbocharged THP 155 petrol. It's the fastest DS3 in the range, but it’s not just about speed, the DSport is fun-to-drive, well-equipped and can average 48.7mpg.