The Citroen C3 has received a thorough update for 2025 that makes the French carmaker’s entry-level model more affordable yet much more feature-packed in higher trim levels. Now that the C3’s value proposition is stronger, many prospective buyers will likely be eyeing the Citroen hatchback. Below, we’ve listed the pros and cons of the C3 to help you decide whether it’s the right choice.
Most affordable in its segment
Prices start at Rs 5.25 lakh.
The 2025 C3 prices have been reduced by up to Rs 1.29 lakh, with the hatchback now starting at Rs 5.25 lakh and topping off at Rs 9.90 lakh. This pricing well undercuts rivals like the Tata Punch, Maruti Suzuki Ignis and Hyundai Exter – at least at the base level – and even places the C3 among the most affordable cars currently on sale in India. However, these prices are introductory, so they can increase in the near future.
Strong turbo-petrol engine
The C3 can be had with 1.2-litre 3-cylinder naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol engines, with the former mated solely to a 5-speed manual gearbox and the latter offering 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter auto options.
Engine feels quite responsive in city driving.
Of these, we’ve reviewed the C3 turbo-petrol manual and found that it’s a strong performer. At low speeds, this engine is very eager to respond to throttle inputs, and the slick gearbox makes swapping cogs an enjoyable experience too.
Great ride and handling
Suspension is very pliant and handling feels tight.
Citroen cars are famed for their excellent ride comfort, and the C3 is no exception to this. Over broken roads, the C3’s suspension successfully absorbs all undulations – no matter the size – and the substantial ground clearance helps you effortlessly glide over bigger speed breakers.
High-speed stability is great as well, and the direct steering rack and high torsional rigidity in the chassis allow you to chuck the C3 into corners while having a bit of fun in the process.
With the C3’s strengths out of the way, let’s discuss some of the hatchback’s weaknesses.
Lower variants are sparsely equipped
Basic convenience and safety features are missing in entry-level trims.
Though the newly added top-spec C3 X Shine trim levels add much-requested features such as an auto-dimming interior rearview mirror, a 360-degree camera (optional extra), cruise control and push-button start/stop, among others, the hatchback’s entry-level trims – Live and Feel – are quite poorly equipped in terms of both creature comforts and safety.
Basic features like height adjust for the driver’s seat, tilt adjust for the steering wheel, passenger sun visor, music system, parcel tray, adjustable front headrests, and more are not offered with the C3 Live and Feel trims. Moreover, these trims miss out on necessary safety equipment like ISOFIX child seat anchor points, 3-point seatbelts with reminders, speed-sensing door locks, door ajar alerts and an anti-theft alarm.
Limited dealer and service network
Citroen only has 80 touchpoints across India at the moment.
Though the C3 is now a much more competitive package, there’s the question of the Citroen brand itself. Citroen entered India just a few years ago, and its dealer and service presence is still nowhere near as widespread as that of Tata, Hyundai and Maruti Suzuki.
This can be a major drawback for buyers who live in tier-2 and -3 cities, where established brands have a greater presence. Thankfully, Citroen has confirmed plans to increase its touchpoints across India from 80 to 150 by the end of 2025.
All prices are ex-showroom, India.
Uday Singh
Rivan RS 
Saumil Shah
Saptarshi Mondal
