Car Statistics: Citroen - DS3  Series 10 (4 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

With all the different colour options available it's hard not to find a DS3 to suit your taste. It's a great looking car with clean lines and stylish features including daytime running lights which add a welcome bit of 'bling' to the front end.

Handling (4 stars)

The DS3 is agile enough and a slick gear shift and well-weighted steering makes it fun to drive. There's not a lot of body roll which gives the driver confidence.

Comfort (4 stars)

Sculpted, supportive seats and a roomy interior are real plus points in the DS3. The ride is a little on the stiff side, but it's not harsh and cushions larger bumps and potholes well. Citroen has put a lot of focus on sound proofing too, and aside from a little road noise on larger 17-inch wheels, there's not too much extraneous noise through to the cabin.

Quality (4 stars)

This is meant to be a premium car, and Citroen has spent a lot of time ensuring the fit and finish is of high quality. The cabin feels solid and is finely detailed - even down to the neat contrast stitching on the door trim.

Performance (4 stars)

The pick of the range is the zippy THP150 petrol engine, which is also found in the DS3's rival, the Mini Cooper S. While it's not staggeringly quick, it is fast enough to be fun and offers decent shove throughout the rev range. If economy is on your mind though, the 110bhp 1.6-litre HDi is also a decent choice.

Roominess (4 stars)

From the outside, you might not expect the DS3 to offer much in the way of rear space, but it will swallow up two adults with relative ease. Citroen claims the middle seat will fit a third, but certainly not in any comfort. And there's even a 285-litre boot as well.

Costs (4 stars)

All engines offer decent fuel economy. The most frugal will be the low CO2 version which not only qualifies for a free tax disc with 99g/km but returns a claimed 74mpg. Insurance should be reasonable too with all models ranging from group 12E to 22E (with the new 1-50 insurance groups).

Value (3 stars)

How far you go to customise your DS3 will ultimately determine how much your car costs. The engine choice sets the base price of your car, followed by how many options you tick after that. Basic prices look reasonable, undercutting the Mini, but it's worth bearing in mind that a range-topping THP 150 fully kitted out will set you back around £19k. That said the individuality of each one - providing it's been tastefully specified - should secure the DS3 a good resale value.

Stereo (4 stars)

The stereo is the same unit found in the C3 which sounds good and is easy to use and navigate and includes MP3 connectivity and USB. Citroens full-colour screen 'My Way' Sat Nav is available as an option.

Other

Overall Rating (4 stars)