Citroen C3 review - MPG, CO2 and running costs

Citroen has a decent record on fuel efficiency from its small petrol and diesel engines, and the C3 continues that trend, even under the tougher WLTP test procedure. The cleanest C3 of all is the 1.6 BlueHDi which emits as little as 118g/km of CO2, while fuel economy of up to 62.7mpg is quoted. 

The core of the C3’s line-up is petrol engines, though, and the 1.2-litre three-cylinder unit does a pretty decent job of maximising fuel economy. The PureTech 82 manages up to 48.7mpg, with CO2 emissions from 131g/km, while the range-topping turbocharged PureTech 110 auto emits 139g/km of CO2, while returning 46.3mpg.

In theory, then, the PureTech 110’s 45-litre fuel tank easily gives a range in excess of 450 miles – and thanks to the tougher WLTP test, that's more likely to be achievable in regular driving. The diesel’s range is more impressive again, of course, and you should be able to travel for 600 miles without worrying about refuelling.  

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Insurance groups

The most basic C3, the PureTech 83 in Feel trim, slots into insurance group 11, while the more powerful 109bhp car with the top-spec Flair Plus equipment level is in group 15. Diesel versions occupy higher insurance ratings, sitting in groups 19-22.

Depreciation

The last C3 was a particularly poor performer when it came to resale time, and unfortunately the new car isn't on a par with other superminis. Residuals in the region of 30-35% are well below models like the VW Polo and Hyundai i20. There could be a variation in residual value depending on long-term demand for C3s with Airbumps, as these should help reduce the risk of car park dings. Cars could be depreciation sensitive courtesy of wacky specifications from the personalisation options, too.