Citroën C3 Pluriel Convertible (2003-2010) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3.5 out of 53.5

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 41 - 60 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

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It may be a convertible but the C3 Pluriel is a cheap car to run. Insurance groups are quite low for a drop-top, service intervals are well spaced and Citroën dealers usually offer good value for money. Fuel consumption is not a concern either and the 1.4 diesel is particularly frugal, returning an impressive 60mpg.

The C3 Pluriel performs very well on the eco front and all the engines are efficient. The diesel is the best, emitting 125g/km of CO2 and returning 60mpg – although it is the slowest of the three engines.

Owners of early Pluriels have been plagued with roof mechanism issues, leaks and gearbox problems, though later models seem to have overcome these issues. The interior plastics look and feel flimsy, so cabin durability may be an issue.