Driving impressions: the Citroen C3 1. 2T Max is a budget-friendly contender in a busy segment
The Citroen C3 1.2T Max hatchback with its black trim has a crossover appeal about it.
Think Citroen and immediately it conjures up images of quirky French designs and fantastic suspension, especially in the iconic DS. They've had a couple of clangers along the way but generally they're very good cars.
South Africa has a checkered history with the brand, now under the Stellantis banner, with the manufacturer withdrawing in 2016 and then returning again in 2019.
Made in India
It's also been a mixed bag when it comes to sales, in part because of our disastrous exchange rate to the Euro that made it difficult to challenge manufacturers importing from China and India.
This was especially so for the Citroen C3 that was outpricing itself in the market but Stellantis was aware of its potential in the budget market, so made the call to bring in the Indian-built model.
It proved to be a wise decision and the C3 is one of Stellantis' top sellers and now competes against the likes of the Hyundai Exter, Mahindra XUV 3XO, and Nissan Magnite.
We had the range-topping Citroen C3 1.2T Max on test and came away suitably impressed, considering the segment it plays in.
Exterior
There's nothing outrageously French about the design, preferring instead a more sober look. The black trimmings around the base of the doors and window frames, faux skid plate, 15-inch alloys, roof-rails and the Citroen chrome double chevron give it a bit of a crossover look and appeal.
Engine
It's powered by the group's tried and tested three-pot 1.2-litre turbocharged engine delivering 81kW and 205Nm mated to a six-speed automatic transmission connected to the front wheels.
Small naturally aspirated engines in some of the competitors tend to wheeze at up-country heights so that turbocharger is a boon for highveld owners.
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