Should you buy a used Citroen DS3?

As an alternative to a three-door Fiesta, MINI One or Cooper, or Fiat 500 the Citroen DS3 has a lot going for it. Like the C3 Mk2, it’s a sound buy, but you’ll want to find one with good history. Survival rates are high, suggesting owners are still keeping them on the road, and the fit and finish is generally good. If you found a bargain Citroen DS3 for sale when looking for a small used car, go for it!

Which used DS3 is worth seeking out?

Citroen captured a lot of the appeal of partner brand Peugeot’s classic hot-hatch expertise in the DS3, and it’s a tempting – and less obvious – alternative to a 207 or 208 GTI. It’s great to drive with tremendous poise in corners and responsive steering, while the ride remains forgiving. We’d recommend the higher-output 120hp BlueHDI DSire or DSport, which from 2014-on is ULEZ compliant and in good health can maintain well over 60mpg economy and lively performance.

Early models are Euro 5, even the low emissions e-HDi. If you want a Euro 6 diesel look for 2014-on models or better yet, the facelifted DS 3 where DS became a marque in its own right.

The 165 THP is also worth a look if you want some classic hot-hatch fun without drawing too much attention. When launched the DS3’s trio of new petrol engines caught the attention of journalists and buyers. The Prince engine co-developed with BMW (and also used in the MINI) offered 1.4 to 1.6-litre options, but reliability issues are common (across all places you find this engine) – the 165 addressed some of the flaws. We would avoid the early 1.2-litre PureTech unless the service history is flawless.

The limited edition DSRacing cracked the 200hp barrier with a version of the engine similar to a MINI JCW. Around 150 were sold in the UK and it’s a potential future collectors car.

What we like about the Citroen DS3

It replaced several fairly flimsy-feeling small cars in one go with an upmarket and well-made three-door hatchback, and is economical and fun to drive almost regardless of version. It feels solid and has a few nice details that help give it a personality where rivals had to reuse old material. Specialists can keep them reliable and the body resists rust well.

What we don’t like about the Citroen DS3

Petrol Prince engines (four-cylinder) have inherent issues that can be avoided, but are likely to recur with the kind of minimum-spend maintenance many small, affordable cars can shrug off. The ride is a little harsh sometimes, and diesel service schedules plus short drives mean premature big bills, not helped by the typical Citroen dealer when these were new. Parts supply my get tricky after 2025.