CITROËN C3 | The New "Citroën C3" Finally Debuts

CITROEN C3 | The Citroën C3

The New Citroën C3 Makes Its Debut

It has been announced that the new Citroën C3 will go on sale starting May 6, 2010. Attention is focused on the full model change of this bestseller, which has sold over 2 million units worldwide since its introduction in 2002.

Photo: Peugeot Citroën Japan

The Concept: VISIODRIVE

The Citroën C3 undergoes its first full model change in eight years since its launch in Europe in 2002. The new model's concept, "VISIODRIVE," is a coined term combining VISION and DRIVE, signifying the proposal of a completely new driving pleasure by merging an unprecedentedly wide field of vision with exceptional comfort.

The lineup consists of two models: the "C3" and the "C3 Exclusive." Both models feature the "Zenith Windshield." This "Zenith Windshield" truly symbolizes the new "VISIODRIVE" concept. With a vast windshield measuring 1,350mm in length and 1,430mm in width, the vertical field of vision expands to a maximum of 108°, allowing occupants to enjoy a panoramic view from the front seats.

Furthermore, the sliding sun visors can be deployed to effectively block direct sunlight. Additionally, the upper 250mm of the windshield glass features a super-tinted treatment, which helps to soften direct sunlight even without using the sliding visors.

Compact and Distinctive Design

The body, with its beautifully curved round form, measures under 4 meters in length at 3,955mm. The interior also showcases sophisticated design elements throughout, such as the two-tiered contrasting structure of the dashboard and the "floating visor" that appears to hover in mid-air, featuring slits that allow light to pass through from the front, covering the meter panel. The "CS3" is also the first model to bear Citroën's newly designed "double chevron" emblem.

Legroom has been expanded by 8cm at the front and 3cm at the rear compared to the previous model. Additionally, a generous 300-liter trunk capacity and thorough sound and vibration dampening measures realize a spaciousness and quietness that exceed expectations for its compact exterior.

The engine is a 1.6-liter DOHC 16V that complies with the European emissions standard, Euro 5. It delivers a maximum output of 88kW (120ps) at 6,000rpm and a maximum torque of 160Nm (16.3kgm) at 4,250rpm. This engine is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission featuring a manual mode. The suspension employs MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam system at the rear.

The body is available in a total of eight colors, with three new colors added. The velour seats can be chosen in Lama (grey) or Mistral (black). The "C3 Exclusive" features Alcantara and fabric combination seats.