Citroen DS3 DSport
Supermini sizzler has style on its side
The Citroen DS3 was one of the biggest surprises of 2010. With its mix of style, pace and driving fun, the eye-catching hatchback marked an amazing return to form for the firm. In previous tests, the DS3 has seen off desirable premium rivals from MINI, Audi and Alfa Romeo. So, how will it cope against even more powerful opposition?
The Citroen gets the nod over its rivals from VW and Skoda for visual appeal. With its mix of curves, creases and straight lines, it never fails to turn heads. Better still, a wide range of paint finishes, bodywork decals and chrome add-ons means that owners can easily personalise their cars. However, unlike the Polo, the Citroen is available solely in three-door form. Fortunately, this has only a small impact on versatility.
Large doors and front seats that slide forward make access to the rear bench straightforward. Better still, the car gives little away to its rivals in terms of headroom. Raise the tailgate and you’ll find a useful 285-litre load bay, which is only 15 litres smaller than the Skoda’s.
As with the exterior, the cabin leads the way for bold styling.
The dashboard has a gloss finish, while the dials are an attractive mix of digital and analogue.
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Cash £24,490What’s surprising is the high standard of fit and finish. Only the occasional use of cheap-looking plastics spoils the DS3’s premium feel. There’s plenty of standard kit, too, with automatic air-con, a Bluetooth connection and cruise control all included – you’ll have to pay extra to add these to the VW and Skoda.
What the DS3 gains in looks and equipment it loses in outright performance. Even in range-topping 148bhp 1.6 THP DSport trim tested here, it can’t match the punch of its more powerful rivals, particularly in the mid-range. It needed 3.6 seconds to complete the 30-50mph test in third gear – that’s a tenth slower than the Polo managed in fourth!
On the road, the differences are immaterial. A much sharper throttle response means the Citroen feels more eager than either the GTI or vRS. But it’s the poised chassis that makes it the first choice for keen drivers.
Point the car’s nose down a twisty road, and you’ll discover impressive poise and agility. The electrically assisted steering is well weighted and delivers decent feedback, and strong grip and traction inspire confidence.
A slick, precise gearshift, progressive brakes and lively exhaust note add to the DSport’s hot hatch credentials. And while the ride is firm, the Citroen does a better job than either rival of smoothing out poor surfaces.
Stylish, great to drive and practical, the DS3 is still on top of its game. On this showing, it could be adding to its already well stocked trophy cabinet...
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Chart position: 1
WHY: The stylish Citroen DS3 is the car to beat here, thanks to its desirable blend of driving fun, style and value. But how will it fare against newer and more powerful rivals?
