New C3 is a glass act

Jul 6 2009 Peter Hayward

THE new Citroen C3 is shaping up to be a glass act with an optional 'Zenith' windscreen, which stretches back over the driver's head like those offered in the Vauxhall Astra.

They say it offers panoramic vision and creates an airy and light cabin but, driving an Astra with one, I was thankful for the slide-out screens which stopped the sun blinding me.

As with all Citroens nowadays style is at the top of the agenda and the glass roof does have a progressive tint to reduce glare and give UV protection.

From launch an entry HDi diesel will be available that emits just 99g/km of CO2. This makes it the company's first tax exempt car.

And from 2011, stop/start technology will see a diesel version emitting only about around 90g/km, while a next-generation three-cylinder petrol engine will also be offered emitting less than 100g/km.

Pricing is yet to be announced, but the new C3 should be here early in 2010 when it will go head to head with the talented Ford Fiesta.

Interior

The company says expensive-feeling materials and a dashboard shared with the more upmarket DS3 concept take the interior to a new quality level.

And improved sound insulation means the new model is just as suited to tackling longer journeys as it is around town.

FAST FACTS (estimated)

Citroen C3 HDi 90

Price: £12,500

Mechanical: 90bhp, 1,560cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox.

Max speed: 110mph

0-62mph: 11 seconds

Combined mpg: 65

Insurance group: 5

CO2 emissions: 99 g/km

BIK rating: 10%

Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles

Marks: 9/10

Main rival: Seat Ibiza Eco