Citroën C3 Pluriel

Citroën C3

Company type	Car model
Industry	Automotive
Predecessor	Citroën Saxo
Founded	April 2002 (2002-04)
Products	Supermini cars (B-segment)
Owner	Citroën

The Citroën C3 is a supermini car classified in the B-segment, manufactured by Citroën since April 2002 as the successor to the Citroën Saxo. Currently in its fourth iteration, the initial models were built on the same platform as the Peugeot 206. The third generation, unveiled in January 2017, was developed in conjunction with the Peugeot 208 launched in 2019.

Primarily available as a five-door hatchback, the first generation also featured a two-door convertible version known as the C3 Pluriel. Additionally, a three-door hatchback with design cues similar to the second generation was marketed under the premium Citroën DS3 badge.

In July 2008, Citroën expanded the lineup with a compact MPV variant named the Citroën C3 Picasso. For the South American market, a small SUV version called the Citroën C3 Aircross was developed and sold locally.

A budget-friendly C3 model was introduced in September 2021 targeting Indian and South American markets. Citroën CEO Vincent Cobée emphasized that "C3" functions as the global trade name for all Citroën B-segment hatchbacks. The European market saw a significantly enhanced fourth-generation C3 debut in October 2023. Both third and fourth generations include a battery electric option.

First generation (FC/FN; 2002)

Following Jean-Pierre Ploué’s appointment as Director of Citroën Design Center in 2000, he oversaw the design of the C3 alongside Donato Coco, recognized for his work on the Citroën Xsara Picasso.

The initial C3 was revealed at the 2001 Frankfurt and Bologna Motor Shows and launched in January 2002 as a five-door hatchback. Engine options included petrol variants of 1.1, 1.4, and 1.6 litres, complemented by common rail diesel engines of 1.4 and 1.6 litres.

A five-speed manual gearbox was standard across most models, except for the Stop & Start version which featured the SensoDrive automated manual transmission with paddle shifters and selectable manual or automatic modes. The highest trim levels offered an optional four-speed hydraulic automatic transmission.

In line with PSA Group’s platform strategy, the C3 utilized the PF1 chassis shared with Peugeot models such as the 1007 and 207, and incorporated numerous components from the Peugeot 206. Certain variants were equipped with a start-stop system to enhance fuel economy during urban driving. Its styling drew loose inspiration from the classic Citroën 2CV.

Between 2005 and 2009, Citroën marketed an offroad-inspired variant named the C3 X-TR, aimed at buyers desiring rugged looks without true offroad functionality.

Citroën C3 Lumiere

The Citroën C3 Lumiere concept car from 1998 foreshadowed the production C3 model. It featured a five-door hatchback layout with seating for four and rear-hinged suicide doors for easier rear access. Powered by a 1.1 L TU1 inline-four petrol engine paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, it exemplified Citroën’s vision for its supermini segment offering.

Safety

The 2002 Citroën C3 SX 1.4 Essence achieved a four-star rating for adult occupant protection and two stars for pedestrian safety from Euro NCAP, demonstrating competitive safety credentials within its class.

Facelift

In October 2005, Citroën refreshed the C3’s exterior with a redesigned front bumper featuring a broader lower air intake and repositioned license plate. The rear lights received crystal-clear midsections to modernize their appearance. Inside, upgrades included a revamped dashboard with enhanced materials, an improved instrument cluster for clearer driver information, and metallic grey trim surrounding fascia elements and air vents. Door panels were redesigned and steering responsiveness was tuned to become firmer at higher speeds.

A significant addition to the powertrain lineup was a 1.6 L 16-valve HDi diesel engine delivering 110 PS. The Pluriel model incorporated similar interior changes but remained mostly unchanged externally.

Despite launching a new generation, Citroën continued selling this original C3 under various names across Europe: briefly as C3 Génération; then as C3 Classic in France, Greece, and Italy; C3 Hit Classic in Belgium; C3 First in Germany and the UK; and C3 First+ in Switzerland. Production ceased in Spain by 2010 and France by mid-2011, although sales persisted throughout Europe until early 2011.

In South America, this generation remained in production and on sale until 2012.

C3 Pluriel

Citroën offered the C3 Pluriel between 2003 and 2010 as a convertible featuring five distinct open-air configurations, in line with its pluralistic name. Designed as a complete project by Italdesign, its assembly was carried out solely in Spain.

This model presented various forms: a hatchback equipped with an insulated multi-layer roof; a landaulet style with either a partially or fully open roof accompanied by a wind deflector; a fixed-profile convertible where the roof folded into the trunk floor; a full convertible variant with detachable side rails on the roof; and a roadster pickup version where the rear seats folded down to create a pickup bed complete with a tailgate. Despite these versatile options, the roof system was known for its susceptibility to leaks.

Introduced in July 2003, the C3 Pluriel came with petrol engines of 1.4 or 1.6 liters and a 1.4-liter diesel alternative. The 1.6-liter petrol engine was paired with an automated manual transmission as standard. Production ceased in July 2010.

The roof mechanism faced criticism for being awkward and impractical, as it required removal and storage of the roof rails during conversion, leaving occupants exposed to rain while driving. The C3 Pluriel was notably ridiculed on Top Gear’s special episode "Worst Car in the History of the World" and was listed among "The 13 worst cars of the last 20 years" by Top Gear Magazine, which likened its usefulness to that of a chocolate teapot.

Engines

• 1.1 L (1124 cc) TU1 inline-four,
• 1.4 L (1360 cc) TU3 inline-four,
• 1.4 L (1398 cc) DV4 HDi diesel inline-four,
• 1.4 L (1398 cc) DV4 HDi 16-valve diesel inline-four (discontinued in 2005 due to non-compliance with EURO4 standards),
• 1.4 L (1360 cc) ET3 16-valve inline-four,
• 1.6 L (1560 cc) DV6 HDi 16-valve diesel inline-four,
• 1.6 L (1560 cc) DV6 HDiF 16-valve diesel inline-four equipped with particulate filter,
• 1.6 L (1587 cc) TU5 16-valve inline-four.

South America

The initial generation of the C3 was manufactured at PSA’s Porto Real facility from 2003 until August 2012, targeting both local consumers and Mercosur countries. In 2008, it underwent a facelift featuring unique front bumpers that set it apart from its European counterpart.

There was also limited CKD (completely knocked down) assembly of the C3 in Uruguay by the regional assembler Oferol.

Second generation (SC; A51; 2009)

The second-generation C3 made its debut on June 29, 2009, with an official unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September before launching as a 2010 model year vehicle. It showcased a revamped exterior design highlighted by an expansive panoramic windshield that provided an enhanced field of vision—a key selling feature branded as "The Visiospace."

Maintaining the predecessor’s rounded silhouette, this generation grew in length and width and shared components such as lighting units and dashboard elements with the DS3 model. The instrument cluster combined traditional analog gauges with a digital display for fuel level and trip information.

The powertrain lineup included carryover PSA TU engines alongside newly introduced "Prince" petrol engines co-developed with BMW, incorporating advanced technologies aimed at lowering CO2 emissions and boosting fuel efficiency. Diesel powertrains were also modernized to comply with updated emissions regulations.

Fuel efficiency improvements were supported by standard cruise control and speed limiters on higher trim levels, plus a "Gear Efficiency Indicator" that suggested optimal gear changes to help reduce fuel consumption.

Engine outputs spanned from 95 PS for the 1.4-liter petrol versions up to 120 PS for the 1.6-liter petrol variants. Diesel models emitted less than 120 g/km CO2, including an "Airdream+" edition that achieved just 99 g/km CO2 thanks to its efficient 90 PS HDI powerplant.

Facelift

Introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2013, the C3 hatchback underwent a redesign that included refreshed exterior and interior styling as well as more fuel-efficient engine options. Notable changes in the facelift include updated chevron emblems, LED daytime running lights integrated into the front bumper, and redesigned rear light assemblies complemented by reflectors positioned below the rear bumper.

Latin NCAP

In 2015, the basic configuration of the C3 tested by Latin NCAP in Latin America achieved a safety rating of 4 stars for adult passengers and 2 stars for child occupants.

Variants

The C3 lineup consists of four trim variants: the base VT (which lacks the panoramic windshield), the mid-level VTR+ and environmentally focused "Airdream+" (featuring reduced emissions), and the premium Exclusive trim that includes half cloth/Alcantara upholstery, chrome detailing, alloy wheels, an alarm system, electrically folding mirrors, and power-operated windows.

Trim identification badges are placed on the rear window frames for VT, VTR+, and Airdream+ models, whereas Exclusive trims display chrome badges on the front doors. Additionally, Norev manufactures 1:43 scale replicas available in Botticelli Blue, Metallic Green, and black shades.

Trim level	L / i	V	Power output	Notes
VT	1.1i	8	45 kW (61 PS)
VTR+	1.4i	8	55 kW (75 PS)
VTR+	1.4VTi	16	70 kW (95 PS)
VTR+	1.4HDi	8	51 kW (70 PS)
VTR+	1.6HDi	16	66 kW (90 PS)	Airdream+
Airdream+	1.4i	8	55 kW (75 PS)
Airdream+	1.4VTi	16	70 kW (95 PS)
Airdream+	1.4HDi	8	51 kW (70 PS)
Airdream+	1.6HDi	16	66 kW (90 PS)	Airdream+
Exclusive	1.4VTi	16	70 kW (95 PS)
Exclusive	1.6VTi	16	88 kW (120 PS)
Exclusive	1.6VTi	16	88 kW (120 PS)	Automatic transmission
Exclusive	1.6HDi	16	66 kW (90 PS)
Exclusive	1.6HDi	16	81 kW (110 PS)

Engines and transmissions

rowspan=2| "1.6VTi" 16V rowspan=2| 2009–present row span=2| 1598 cc row span=2| at 6,000 rpm row span=2| at 4,200 rpm row span=2| 8.9 s/10.9 s row span=2| row span=2| 136

Model	Production years	Engine type	Displacement	Output power	Torque	Acceleration (0–100 km/h)	Maximum speed	Gearbox type	CO₂ emissions (g/km)
1.1i 8V	2009–present	Straight-four engine#inline I4 engines I4	1124 cc	45 kW (61 PS) at 5,500 rpm	at 3,300 rpm	16.5 s		5-speed manual	137
"1.4i" 8V	2009–present | 1360 cc | at 5,200 rpm | at 3,300 rpm | 14.2 s | | 140 |
"1.4VTi" 16V	2009–present | 1397 cc | at 6,000 rpm | at 4,000 rpm | 10.6 s | | 134 (Exclusive) 136 (Airdream+ / VTR+)

Model	Production years	Engine type	Displacement (cc)	Power output (PS)	Torque (Nm)	Acceleration (0-100 km/h)	Top speed (km/h)	Transmission type	CO₂ emissions (g/km)

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By the year 2016, a version equipped with a 1.6HDi engine coupled to a five-speed transmission was introduced.

Third Generation (SX/SY; 2016)

Debuted in June 2016, the third-generation C3 is produced at PSA's Trnava facility in Slovakia and by Saipa Citröen in Iran. Its updated styling draws inspiration from the refreshed Citroën C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso models, incorporating optional side Airbump panels originally seen on the Citroën C4 Cactus.

Constructed upon the PSA PF1 platform, this generation offers petrol engine variants including a naturally aspirated and turbocharged 1.2 L PSA EB2F three-cylinder unit. Diesel powertrains comprise Ford's DV5 and DV6 BlueHDi inline-four engines. Transmission options feature 5- or 6-speed manual gearboxes as well as a 6-speed automatic.

Customers can personalize their vehicle extensively, choosing from nine exterior paint hues combined with three contrasting roof and trim colors, enabling up to 36 unique color schemes.

Technical details include:

• Wheelbase:
• Length:
• Width:
• Height:
• Weight range:

The design team was led by Cyril Pietton for the exterior, Jean-Arthur Madelaine for the interior, and Sylvain Henry who oversaw the facelift exterior design.

Facelift (2020)

The 2020 update brought a revised front fascia along with LED headlights, introduced two fresh exterior shades named "Spring Blue" and "Rouge Elixir," and added new interior themes called "Techwood" and "Emeraude." In 2023, Citroën expanded the lineup with the launch of the C3 You, a new entry-level version.

Engines and Transmissions

Petrol Engines

Model	Production Years	Engine Type	Displacement	Power Output	Torque	0–100 km/h (0–62 mph)	Maximum Speed	Gearbox	Template:CO2 Emissions (g/km)
1.2 Puretech	2016–2019	I3	1199 cc	68 PS (50 kW) at 6,000 rpm	95 N⋅m (70 lbf⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm	14.4 s	164 km/h (102 mph)	5-speed manual	109
1.2 Puretech	2016–present	I3	1199 cc	83 PS (61 kW) at 5,750 rpm	118 N⋅m (87 lbf⋅ft) at 2,750 rpm	13.0 s	167 km/h (104 mph)	5-speed manual	124
1.2 Puretech Turbo	2016–present	I3	1199 cc	110 PS (81 kW) at 5,500 rpm	151 N⋅m (111 lbf⋅ft) at 1,750 rpm	9.8 s	188 km/h (117 mph)	5-speed manual (2016–2018), 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic	133

Diesel Engines

Model	Production Years	Engine Type	Displacement	Power Output	Torque	0–100 km/h (0–62 mph)	Maximum Speed	Gearbox	Template:CO2 Emissions (g/km)
1.6L DW6 BlueHDI I4	2016–2018	I4	1599 cc	99 PS (73 kW) at 3,750 rpm	254 N⋅m (187 lbf⋅ft) at 1,750 rpm	10.6 s	185 km/h (115 mph)	5-speed manual	95

Europe (2024)

In October 2023, Citroën revealed the fourth-generation European C3, with manufacturing commencing in 2024 at facilities in Slovakia and Serbia. This model is constructed on Stellantis’ Smart Car Platform, designed to underpin seven forthcoming models emphasizing battery electric technology.

Unlike the version sold in India, the European C3 showcases distinctive design elements such as C-shaped LED headlights, a sealed grille adorned with Citroën’s updated emblem, triple-segment LED daytime running lights, uniquely styled fenders and doors, traditional door handles, redesigned rear lights and bumper, along with options for larger alloy wheels. This iteration introduces the brand’s latest design language initially previewed by the 2022 Oli Concept.

Inside, the cabin features a multi-layered dashboard inspired by the C-Zen Lounge concept, incorporating a Heads Up Display that replaces conventional instrument clusters and a flat-bottom steering wheel. It also debuts Citroën’s Advanced Comfort Suspension system and newly developed Advanced Comfort Seats.

Embodying a crossover SUV aesthetic, the model offers increased ground clearance by 28 mm, an elevated roofline providing an extra 30 mm of front headroom and 20 mm more rear knee space, all while retaining its compact footprint.

The electric ë-C3 variant is equipped with a 44 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery delivering an estimated WLTP range of up to 320 km. It is powered by an 83 kW motor that accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 11 seconds.

Citroën has streamlined the trim offerings to two fixed levels without optional extras; customization options are limited exclusively to exterior paint colors.

Engines and transmissions

Petrol engines

Model	Year	Engine	Displacement	Power	Torque	0–100 km/h (0–62 mph)	Top speed	Transmission	Template:CO2 emission (g/km)
1.2 Puretech Turbo	2024-present	I3	1199 cc	74 kW; 99 hp (100 PS) at 5500 rpm	205 N⋅m (151 lbf⋅ft) at 1750 rpm	10.6	183 km/h	6 speed manual	123

India and Latin America (2022)

The third-generation C3 tailored for Indian and Latin American markets debuted in September 2021, with production starting in Brazil and India during 2022. Marketed as a "modern hatchback," it deliberately distances itself from conventional crossover SUV classification despite adopting SUV-inspired styling cues such as elevated ground clearance, roof rails, and black body cladding.

Its exterior design includes split headlamps integrated with Citroën’s signature double-slat grille, optional orange detailing, a nearly vertical rear hatch, and rectangular LED taillights. The interior offers customizable color themes, a higher driving position, and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment display.

While praised in India for its driving characteristics, the model received criticism due to limited standard features. In response to customer feedback, Citroën introduced updates in August 2024 including automatic climate control, an enhanced instrument panel shared with the C3 Aircross and Basalt trims, and standard six-airbag safety equipment to improve overall value.

ë-C3

In January 2023, Citroën launched the fully electric ë-C3 in India. It is powered by a 42 kW electric motor coupled with a 29.2 kWh battery pack offering a driving range of approximately 199 miles. The ë-C3 distinguishes itself through blue 'ë' branding badges, a charging port located on the front fender, absence of an exhaust pipe, and an interior gear selector switch replacing the conventional gear lever found on the standard C3.

Safety

In 2024, the Indian ë-C3 was awarded 0 stars for adult occupant protection and 1 star for child occupant safety by Global NCAP.

Argentina

The third-generation C3 was introduced on 24 October 2022 in Argentina, available in four variants: Live, Live Pack, Feel, and Feel Pack. Engine choices consist of a 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine producing 60 kW and a 1.6-litre Flex Fuel petrol option. A limited First Edition run of 1,200 units showcased unique exterior badges.

Brazil

Brazil's launch mirrored Argentina’s lineup with the same four trims. Engine options include a Fiat 1.0-litre FireFly petrol and a 1.6-litre Flex Fuel petrol engine. The First Edition model was also offered at debut.

Starting in 2023, C3 vehicles manufactured in Brazil have been exported beyond Mercosur countries to destinations such as Chile, Peru, and Costa Rica.

In August 2024, the Brazilian market saw the arrival of the C3 YOU! variant featuring a Fiat 1.0-litre turbocharged engine coupled with a CVT transmission.

India

The third-generation C3 made its Indian debut on 20 July 2022, available in two trims: Live and Feel. Engine options include a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre PureTech petrol (60 kW) and a turbocharged version of the same displacement delivering 81 kW. The Shine trim was introduced later in April 2023.

With approximately 90% local content, the Indian-produced C3 began exports to ASEAN countries on 31 March 2023.

The ë-C3 electric variant launched on 27 February 2023 with Live and Feel trims; the Shine trim joined the lineup in January 2024.

Indonesia

Citroën re-entered the Indonesian market by launching the third-generation C3 on 7 December 2022. It is powered by a 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine generating 60 kW and is offered exclusively with a five-speed manual gearbox across standard and Plus trims.

The ë-C3 electric model was unveiled at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show in August 2023. The initial batch of 500 units began arriving as imports in April 2024.

In July 2025, the lineup expanded with the addition of the Sport variant, which features red exterior stripes, sport-inspired interior details, metallic pedal covers, six airbags, and a reversing camera.

South Africa

The third-generation C3 was launched in South Africa on 25 May 2023, initially offered solely in the Feel trim powered by an EB2F 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine. The Max trim was introduced in March 2024, equipped with an EB2DT 1.2-litre turbocharged PureTech petrol engine delivering increased power from November 2024.

India

The Indian-market C3 comes standard with two front airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), front seatbelt reminders, and speed alert features complying with AIS safety standards. However, it does not include side airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), ISOFIX child seat anchors, or adjustable rear head restraints. The rear center seatbelt is a fixed two-point belt without an associated head restraint. Although it meets Indian crashworthiness criteria, it has not undergone evaluation by independent safety organizations such as Global NCAP.

In February 2024, Citroën India announced plans to equip all C3 variants sold domestically with six airbags and rear seatbelt reminders starting July 2024.

Latin America

In Brazil, the C3 is fitted with two frontal airbags, ABS brakes, ESC, front seatbelt reminders, ISOFIX anchor points on outer rear seats, adjustable head restraints for all seats, and three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for every rear passenger position. Despite these features, the vehicle received zero stars in Latin NCAP’s 2023 assessment due to structural instability during crashes, inadequate frontal impact protection, absence of lateral head protection systems, and lack of seatbelt reminder alerts.

2023 Citroën C3 (Brazil)

Latin NCAP results (2023)
Adult occupant protection		Child occupant protection		Vulnerable road user protection		Safety assist features
Score	31%	Score	12%	Score	50%	Score	35%
Maximum star rating	Template:Rating	Maximum star rating	Template:Rating	Maximum star rating	Template:Rating	Maximum star rating	Template:Rating
Overall rating	Template:Rating

Awards

In 2023, the Citroën C3 models marketed in India and Latin America earned the distinction of World Urban Car of the Year, underscoring their significant foothold and popularity within city driving markets.

Sales

Year	India	Brazil	Argentina	Uruguay	Indonesia
2022	5,686	10,834	≈340	528
2023		26,581	4,261	1,507
2024		21,081			488

Sales and production

Year	Europe	Brazil	Worldwide production	Worldwide sales	Notes
2001	1,298
2002	136,530
2003	290,666	4,164
2004	285,858	7,801
2005	247,175	12,791
2006	210,880	22,272
2007	201,083	29,508
2008	170,036	35,837
2009	168,507	33,547	233,400	226,700
2010	230,093	39,918	311,200	308,300
2011	181,950	37,576	353,593	255,312	Cumulative production reached 3,113,192 units.
2012	150,203	34,928	293,000	215,800	Total output climbed to 3,406,200 units.
2013	113,625	33,672
2014	129,612	28,745
2015	123,443	17,032
2016	133,566	11,827
2017	205,272	9,883
2018	208,941	6,379
2019	210,465	2,858
2020	149,284	968
2021	156,904	41
2022	143,358

By May 2021, global production had exceeded 4.5 million vehicles worldwide and included the milestone achievement of manufacturing one million third-generation C3 units.

See also

• Citroën C3 Aircross
• Citroën C3 Picasso

External links

• Official Citroën C3 UK microsite