Best-Seller Undergoes Full Model Change

Since its debut in 2002, the Citroën C3 has become a best-seller with over 3.5 million units sold worldwide. One in five Citroën cars sold globally is a C3. In the Japanese market, this ratio is even higher, with one in three cars sold being a C3, making it an extremely important model," says Hiroyuki Seki, Manager of the Product Planning Group at Peugeot Citroën Japon's Marketing Department.

For this full model change, Citroën surveyed customer desires within the C3's segment. The results indicated a strong emphasis on practicality, comfortable ride, and price. Simultaneously, customers sought a sense of security and protection, a unique design that allows for self-expression, and the ability to stay connected with friends at all times.

Based on these findings, three development goals were established. First, to create a product that meets the expectations of current customers who prioritize safety and comfort. Second, to appeal to active families who are sensitive to trends and style, including those who might not have previously considered a Citroën. Finally, the goal was rejuvenation. "By attracting a larger number of younger customers, we aim to refresh the brand image itself," explains Seki.

The fundamental requirements were defined as a compact size under 4 meters in length, five doors, sufficient space for a family of five, and a trunk capacity of 300 liters. To break free from the conventional segment mold, modernity, dynamism, and freshness were added to these requirements.

With these points in mind, four key aspects of the new C3 were identified: Design, Customization, Comfort, and Technology. We will now explore the C3 based on these pillars.

Exterior Design Inherited from C4 Picasso and C4 Cactus

The most striking feature of the C3's design is its front face. Adopting styling cues from the minivan C4 Picasso and the crossover C4 Cactus, it is characterized by its two-tiered daytime running lights and headlights. The side view, with its blacked-out window surrounds, accentuates the contrast between the roof and body colors. The wheels also feature black accents, further enhancing the visual impact of the entire wheel assembly.

The Airbumps, first introduced on the C4 Cactus, have been refined and are now standard equipment. These Airbumps consist of air-filled pockets within a durable resin, designed to absorb minor impacts. Seki comments, "These are features that make occupants feel protected. We've added a touch of color to serve not only as a functional element but also as a design accent."

The rear view, with its 3D-effect taillights and bumper design resembling an underguard, creates an impression of a wider body.

The interior is simple yet modern, with a horizontal dashboard featuring a central touchscreen. This tablet-like display is designed for intuitive use, with shortcut buttons that minimize the need to navigate through deep menus. It supports 30 languages, including Japanese.

The grip on the front doors is inspired by the straps of travel luggage. Seki laughs, "It expresses Citroën's playful spirit. The moment you hold it, you feel like embarking on a journey, a sense of excitement."

Body Colors Available in 21 Combinations

The C3 is available in monotone versions and two-tone versions where the roof color can be different from the body color. With seven body colors and three roof colors, a total of 21 combinations are possible, including the monotone options.

The interior offers a choice between a calm, sophisticated gray base with brilliant black panels, and an Urban Red type featuring red accents. These two interior color schemes, combined with the 21 exterior color options, cater to a wide range of user preferences.

Citroën's DNA: Comfort

Comfort is a keyword that has been consistently pursued since the brand's inception, representing Citroën's DNA. Along with enlarged seats, it delivers an unparalleled, supreme ride quality within its segment. The power steering has also been refined to enhance smooth operation at low speeds, improving maneuverability in urban environments. Furthermore, significant attention has been paid to quietness; by reviewing sound insulation measures, "we have created an interior space that feels like a cocoon, a comfortable haven," says Seki.

To further enhance comfort, a panoramic glass roof is available as an option. While the Zenith windshield from the previous generation has been discontinued, the glass roof allows rear passengers to enjoy bright sunlight, similar to those in the front. Rear legroom has also been increased by 22mm compared to the previous model, further improving comfort.

The Connected C3

In terms of safety, various driving assistance features are standard, including Active Safety Brake. Some features, such as traffic sign recognition, are segment-firsts. Additionally, blind-spot detection for vehicles behind, a rearview camera, and smart key are standard on higher trim levels.

The powertrain features a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine producing 110 horsepower, which has won the International Engine of the Year award for three consecutive years. This is paired with the next-generation EAT6 six-speed automatic transmission, jointly developed by Aisin AW and PSA.

Addressing the customer desire to "stay connected with friends at all times," mentioned earlier, Citroën's answer is the world's first standard-equipped Citroën Connected Cam. Mounted in front of the rearview mirror, the Connected Cam also functions as a dashcam, featuring a 120-degree field of view, built-in GPS, and 16GB of memory. With a simple press of a button, images and videos can be shared on social networks.

The C3 models introduced in Japan will be available in two grades: the entry-level "Feel" and the higher-spec "Shine." Additionally, a limited edition "Shine Debut Edition" will be offered as an initial launch model, with only 200 units available. While lacking Active Safety Brake, this edition features upgraded 17-inch wheels (typically 16-inch) and enhanced interior trim with Tep Leather and artificial leather. The vehicle price, including paint, is ¥2.26 million. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in July, with the catalog models Feel and Shine expected to be delivered from September onwards.

Citroën C3 Feel
Citroën C3 Shine
Body Dimensions | Length 3,995 x Width 1,750 x Height 1,495 mm
Wheelbase | 2,535 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,480 / 1,480 mm
Weight | 1,160 kg
Engine | 1,199cc Inline 3-cylinder DOHC Turbo
Bore x Stroke | 75.0 x 90.5 mm
Max. Output | 81 kW (110 ps) / 5,500 rpm
Max. Torque | 205 Nm (20.1 kgm) / 1,500 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed AT (6EAT)
Drivetrain | FF
Suspension Front/Rear | MacPherson Strut / Torsion Beam
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Disc / Disc
Tires | 205/55 R16
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 18.7 km/ℓ
Min. Turning Radius | 5.5 meters
Ground Clearance | 160 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 liters
Price | (Feel) ¥2.16 million (Shine) ¥2.39 million