We Drove It: Navigating Johannesburg In The All-New Citroën C3

Citroën has unveiled the all-new C3, a hatchback designed with the needs and preferences of South African drivers in mind.

Bringing a new model into a highly attractive market segment, Citroën hopes the C3 will be a runaway hit with South African car owners.
The all-new Citroën C3 is available at an introductory price of R229’900 and comes with a service plan and warranty.
With its French looks and fitted with ample features, the Citroën C3 presents a chic package.
Visit www.sandtontimes.co.za for more stories.

Hosting one of their biggest launches for 2023, multinational automotive manufacturing company Stellantis pulled out all the stops to make sure the all-new Citroën C3 receives the best welcome possible, as it touches down in South Africa, looking to make a significant impact in the market. The Sandton Times joined a group of motoring media for the launch event in Johannesburg to get the full overview and a chance to test-drive the Citroën C3.

The Citroën C3 launch hosted at the Prison Break Market blended information and entertainment into a ‘freedom’ inspired two-days, featuring performances by Mi Casa, a luncheon at NIROX Sculpture Park, a sleepover at the newly renamed Hotel Perte at Montecasino and more!

The design of the C3 was influenced by feedback from specific groups of potential customers, ensuring that it meets all expectations. Image: The Sandton Times

Having carefully analysed the market, the Citroën C3 combines affordability, style, and unique features to provide a comfortable and rewarding driving experience.

The engineers at Citroën focused on creating a vehicle that is agile and responsive, particularly in demanding driving conditions. The steering and turning circle have been specially tuned to provide optimal control, making the car agile at low speeds and in heavy traffic.

The suspension settings minimize body roll and provide a smoother ride over rough roads. Comfort was another important consideration during the design process. The C3 offers a commanding driving position and good visibility, thanks to the plunging bonnet, windscreen angle, and side windows. The vehicle’s body has been designed to minimize vibration and maximize comfort for all occupants.

The car offers ample storage space, including door pockets, cup-holders, and smartphone storage slots. Image: The Sandton Times

The design of the all-new Citroën C3 is unmistakably…well…Citroën. It features the brand’s signature “Y”-form lighting signature at the front, along with the iconic chevrons located at the center of the grille. The rear taillight design is inspired by the Citroën Oli concept vehicle. The car’s exterior design highlights its robust attitude, with sculpted strokes on the bonnet and flanks emphasizing its width and volume.

Inside the Citroën C3, there is a focus on spaciousness, versatility and features. The horizontal dashboard creates a sense of space and width, and the seating is fully adjustable with high-density foam for enhanced comfort. The interior features good materials and finishes, with dual-tone options available for the dashboard and colored stitching on the seats, should you want to customise your ride.

The all-new Citroën C3 is equipped with advanced technology to keep drivers and passengers connected and entertained. It features a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, the largest in its segment, with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The driver also has a 7-inch color TFT cluster screen for displaying vehicle information. USB sockets provide quick-charging for smartphones and other devices.

The car is designed for a smooth and comfortable ride, with a suspension system that provides good shock absorption. Image: The Sandton Times

Under the hood, the Citroën C3 is powered by Citroën’s acclaimed PURETECH 1.2-liter naturally aspirated engine, which offers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.

There’s room for some additional tweaks and additions, but overall, the Citroën C3 provides a good ride, especially at a competitive price point. The Citroën C3 is available in a variety of colour combinations and has some additional add-ons to make the ride customisable to each driver’s particular flavour.

Overall, the all-new C3 combines affordability, style, and comfort to meet the demands of South African drivers, and this is a definite favourite for those looking for a first car option as they head to University. With its unique design, advanced technology, and emphasis on driving experience, the Citroën C3 aims to stand out in the market and provide a rewarding experience for drivers.

Get the best of The Sandton Times in your email inbox.

Advertise on The Sandton Times today!

Head back to The Sandton Times Home Page for more stories.