The Citroen C3 Facelift has arrived with bold styling updates, refined comfort features, and a more efficient powertrain, making it an attractive option for urban and highway driving. Citroen has clearly aimed this model at buyers who value both unique design and practical usability. In this in-depth review, we explore the facelifted C3’s design changes, performance, comfort, features, and pricing to help you decide if it’s the right hatchback for you.
Table of Contents
Design & Exterior Styling
The Citroen C3 Facelift retains its quirky French charm but gets a sharper, more contemporary look. Citroen has refined the grille design with a new chrome-accented pattern, giving the front a premium vibe. The LED DRLs have been redesigned for a sleeker appearance, and the bumper now features sportier contours.
Key Design Highlights:
- Updated front grille with bold chrome accents
- New LED DRL pattern for a modern touch
- Fresh dual-tone paint options and contrast roof colors
- Redesigned alloy wheels with a sporty look
The facelift’s unique crossover-inspired stance makes it stand out from typical hatchbacks. The ground clearance is slightly higher than most rivals, giving it a rugged urban SUV vibe.
Interior Comfort & Cabin Quality
Step inside the Citroen C3 Facelift, and you’ll immediately notice improved material quality. The dashboard now uses softer-touch plastics and refined textures, while the seats offer better cushioning and support.
Citroen has also tweaked the ergonomics, making frequently used controls more accessible. The infotainment system now sits higher for easier viewing, and there’s additional storage in the center console.
Interior Features Include:
- 10-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- New upholstery options with better fabric quality
- Adjustable driver’s seat for improved comfort
- Rear AC vents for better passenger cooling
Performance & Engine Options
The Citroen C3 Facelift continues with its reliable petrol engine lineup but with minor tuning for improved fuel efficiency and smoother power delivery.
Engine Specs:
- 1.2L Naturally Aspirated Petrol – Ideal for city use, offering balanced performance and mileage.
- 1.2L Turbo Petrol – More spirited option with better highway performance.
Both engines come with a 5-speed manual gearbox, while the turbo variant also offers a 6-speed unit for a smoother highway experience.
Performance Highlights:
- Improved engine refinement with reduced cabin noise
- Better throttle response in city traffic
- Enhanced mileage figures thanks to tuning adjustments
Ride Comfort & Handling
Citroen is known for its ride comfort, and the facelifted C3 delivers exactly that. The suspension is tuned to absorb potholes and rough patches with ease, making it an excellent city car. On highways, the C3 remains stable, though its comfort-focused suspension means slight body roll in sharp corners.
Ride & Handling Pros:
- Comfortable suspension setup for bad roads
- Light steering for easy urban maneuvering
- Stable at cruising speeds
Technology & Safety Features
The Citroen C3 Facelift sees an upgrade in tech and safety. While it still focuses on essential features, the list is now more competitive.
Tech Features:
- 10-inch infotainment with wireless smartphone connectivity
- USB-C charging ports
- Improved audio system
Safety Features:
- Dual front airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Rear parking sensors
- Seatbelt reminders for front passengers
Fuel Efficiency & Practicality
One of the C3’s main selling points is its fuel economy. The naturally aspirated variant offers excellent mileage for daily commutes, while the turbo variant strikes a balance between performance and efficiency.
Practicality is another plus — the boot space remains generous for its class, and rear legroom is competitive.
Pricing & Variants
The Citroen C3 Facelift is positioned to compete with models like the Tata Punch, Maruti Ignis, and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios. Citroen has kept pricing competitive to attract first-time car buyers and budget-conscious families.
Expected Price Range: ₹6.5 lakh – ₹9.5 lakh (ex-showroom, India)
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Unique design that stands out
- Comfortable ride quality
- Spacious cabin for its size
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- Lacks some advanced safety features like six airbags
- No automatic transmission option yet
Who Should Buy the Citroen C3 Facelift?
The facelifted C3 is best suited for buyers looking for:
- A stylish, distinctive hatchback
- Comfort-focused suspension for city roads
- Reliable and fuel-efficient petrol engines
- A budget-friendly alternative to mainstream options
Conclusion
The Citroen C3 Facelift brings meaningful upgrades without losing its unique personality. For buyers seeking comfort, practicality, and a dash of European flair at an affordable price, this hatchback is a strong contender.
With its refined styling, improved interior quality, and tuned engines, Citroen has successfully made the C3 more appealing while keeping it value-packed.
