Car Statistics: Citroen - C3 Series 09 (3 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

A sportier front end and rear lights with a black surround stand out to give the C3 classic good looks. It also features a new Zenith windscreen, which stretches back above the front seats to let more light into the cabin.

Handling (3 stars)

On the road the C3 lacks the dynamism of some of its competitors. There's a bit of body roll, although this is mostly well controlled, and it has a tendency to understeer when pushed hard around a bend. But not all drivers want or need dynamism from their cars, so the C3 shouldn't suffer greatly for being less entertaining than, say, the Ford Fiesta.

Comfort (4 stars)

The new C3 feels very refined, Citroen having worked hard on the C3's soundproofing to ensure there is little engine noise through to the cabin, road noise has been minimised and wind noise is only really audible at motorway speeds. The ride quality is also excellent and, even on larger wheels, the C3 deals with the majority of minor lumps and bumps without drama.

Quality (4 stars)

There's a huge improvement in the perceived quality in the Citroen C3. Indeed, it feels like the car has jumped forward more than one generation. The interior is full of soft-touch materials and solid-feeling switchgear, while the dashboard layout has been well thought-out, with everything positioned logically and ergonomically. Citroen's reliability record is much improved too, so the C3 should have few issues.

Performance (3 stars)

There's a competent range of engines, the pick being the 1.6 VTi 120 (the same unit found in the Mini Cooper), which feels nippy rather than fast. Of the diesel units, the 1.6 HDi 90 and 110 both have plenty of torque to offer decent acceleration (0-62mph is possible in around 10 seconds), but don't expect any real turn of speed from the C3 range.

Roominess (4 stars)

The C3's tall body creates plenty of headroom, while there is decent room for two in the rear (the third seat is a little small). There are plenty of storage options throughout the cabin too, and the C3 boasts one of the largest boots in its class, with 300 litres of space.

Costs (3 stars)

Across the range, fuel consumption varies between 63mpg and 67mpg for the diesel units, while the petrol engines consume between 40.9mpg and 48.7mpg. Insurance should be reasonable too, while Citroen's servicing costs are competitive. We've also been reassured that the larger windscreen shouldn't cost more than a standard windscreen to replace, in the event of a crack or chip.

Value (4 stars)

The C3 is priced competitively with three trim levels offered: VT, VTR+ and Exclusive. Both VTR+ and Exclusive models will receive the Zenith Windscreen as standard, and standard equipment should be generous, although exact specifications are yet to be announced.

Stereo (3 stars)

The C3 comes fitted with USB, iPod and Bluetooth connection and comes with new high tech stereo system as standard. Satellite Navigation is available as an option and comes with decent graphics, although it struggles to keep up when you're travelling quickly and can loose its way occasionally.