Should you buy a used Citroen C3 Mk2?

If you’re looking for a modern-feeling, comfortable and practical small car the 2010-16 Citroen C3 has a lot going for it as a used buy. 2014-on models are the best, with some nice technology on high-end trims and the benefit of the very effective, economical 1.2-litre PureTech engine (as long as it has been maintained well). The diesel models were very good when new, but with so few ULEZ compliant examples on the market, and a poor track record for longevity if neglected, we’d only recommend buying one if you’re prepared to spend the money looking after it well.

And by well, we mean better than a Citroen dealer stamping up the service plan.

If you look after it well, or get a very good one in the first place, the C3’s ride and refinement really is worthy of that Citroen badge. It’s got a bigger boot than many rivals, too – though the back seat is not the most spacious. Inside, the car feels airy and a little different if you get the Zenith windscreen, and there’s no denying that away from ULEZ and forgotten services, the 1.6 HDi diesel C3 is quick, economical and satisfying to drive.

The low number of cars on sale relative to the apparent number of survivors suggests that owners who have them haven’t found anything better, and if you’ve been reluctant to look at one because the original C3 looked, and felt, so cheap – the only common thread between them from an ownership perspective is the badge. They’re very different cars.

What we like about the Citroen C3 Mk2

High-quality body engineering and a feeling of solidity, nice interior design with good fit and finish almost all the way through, the amazing view of the landscape ahead from the Zenith windscreen, and the impressive balance of performance, economy and comfort achieved when the car was new.

What we don’t like

Discounts and cut-price attitude from dealers often results in neglected cars, and the HDi engine really does need to be maintained well to stay reliable and deliver that impressive economy. Some cost-cutting on unseen trim, and a few inherited weaknesses such as SensoDrive (EGT) gearboxes and electrical systems.