Page 35 - Blue Valley News June/July 2021

MOTORING

GUESS WHO’S RIDING SHOTGUN WITH MZANSI’S ALISTERS

CITROËN C3 SA LAUNCH

By Alan Rosenmeyer

he sales record of the Citroën C3 model course, the air bumps on the sides with white LED headlights and daytime running lights
in Europe has proven the success of accents. Overall, you cannot fail to recognise are all part of the standard spec level.
Tthis range with over 4.5 million units this as a Citroën.
sold, of which over 1 million are the current One item I noticed when travelling as a
generation. It is obvious that this is a car There are only two models in the range. The passenger was the absence of a ‘grab handle’
that is unfairly overlooked by South African Feel is powered by a 1.2l 3-cylinder providing above the passenger seat, something I always
buyers. 60kW to the front wheels through a 5-speed like to use especially when the car is being
manual gearbox. The launch drive was in the driven enthusiastically.
Under the new Stellantis banner, the team top Shine derivative, this adds a turbo to the
is hoping to change the situation with the engine to up power to 81kW and changes the During the drive, I felt that the car was a bit
launch of this latest facelift (although I think gearbox to a 6-speed automatic. slower than I expected on pull-off, especially
there are enough changes to call this an all as there is 81kW available. Chatting to the
new version). Packed with spec and luxury, Shine spec provides many features including Citroën team, they explained to me that this is
it's a compelling offer in a highly competitive lane departure warning, road sign recognition deliberate and part of the comfort effect that
B-Hatch market segment. which works in conjunction with the cruise they have created for the car. Thinking about
control, infotainment system including it, it actually makes sense to me. Smooth and
There are numerous typical Citroën styling reverse camera plus much more. Emphasis relaxed driving will definitely create a more
cues on the car, starting with the very square is placed on comfort in the C3 and this is comfortable and serene experience. This is
front end with the flat bonnet line to aid noticeable with much thicker padding on the aided by extremely good sound insulation in
forward visibility, moving to the white trim seats for the typical French levels of comfort the car and progress at all times is very easy-
surrounds around the fog lights and, of in the car. Automatic air-conditioning, auto going.

With pricing of R269 900 for the Feel and
R324 900 for the Shine version, the new C3
is extremely competitive and deserves a
closer look if you are shopping for a car in this
category, especially if you take the safety and
luxury specifications into consideration. BV

Click here to watch our full video review:
https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=Cxdo3ldRpQs

@IGNITIONTV BLUE VALLEY NEWS • Issue 3 2021 • 33