Citroen C3
Small cars have become increasingly more popular over the past year, be it the recession forcing us to spend less, or the laws and benefits of driving a smaller engine, reducing road tax and emissions. Whichever it may be, manufacturers have responded well to accommodate the need for small cars, however Citroen have taken it to the next level with the new C3.
Firstly lets look at design, not being a huge fan of old shape, Citroen have really focused on detail in the new model, taking what used to be a very bulbous body to Harley Street, giving it lypo and a tummy tuck revealing creases in all the right places, while still retaining some elegant lines and keeping it curvy. The windscreen stretches right back on top of the roof, divided by a chrome surround that finishes it off beautifully, creating a spacious feeling when driving and bringing purity to the C3's design.
The Interior speaks volumes about advances in the brand's identity, although the trademark steering wheel found in C4 and C5 models has not been included which is disappointing. The dashboard and elements within are a high quality finish, space isn't much of an issue either with the C3 boasting a large boot for its class. Options for a centre armrest, big enough for your wallet, and passenger seat drawer for any unmentionables you don't want seen are available at a reasonable cost.
The driving experience in the C3 is definitely aimed at fun about town; lower gears give you enough pull to swiftly move about without much concern. Motorway speeds aren't too painless either, with an impressive 0-62mph time of 8.9 seconds; twinned with the combined economy of 47.9 miles per gallon…don't you feel like an eco speed demon! The extended windscreen definitely makes a difference; opening up your visibility and making the car feel a lot more spacious inside. It handles well through corners and has plenty of initialled safety features to keep you on the road should you push it a bit too far.
Overall the C3 is a safer choice than stopping in a French lay-by at night (due to the fact it has lights) and it certainly looks more fun than the hairy trucker winking at you in the aforementioned lay-by. Another great small car from Citroen, and a choice you won't regret for a minute.
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Picasso
Overview
AHAH! STOP THE PRESS! Don't be crowning any winner just yet, as I have been driving a car that will wilt your enthusiasm about the Soul or the Urban Cruiser. Let me introduce you to the C3 Picasso, possibly one of the most unexpected cars to ever be made.
Following the trend of the C4, Citroen revealed the C3 Picasso at Paris Motorshow last year, and on first impressions I have to say I thought it looked like a giant bug (and I don't mean Bugatti).
With a design that is sure to turn heads and interior solutions that compete with Ikea, Citroen seems to have created a car that looks abnormal yet funky, is practical yet fun and has all the versatility of Johnny Depp.
Style and looks
As I mentioned earlier, the C3 is certainly an odd looking car, but with all the curves and bulges, works in today's city orientated style. You can tell that this wasn't just a panic project that Citroen put together to beat the recession either, they have really worked hard to deliver an 'out there' appearance for the C3, an appearance that has everyone looking and a clever way to get people talking.
Do away with that angular slant you get with the Soul and smooth off those corners on the Urban Cruiser, add some utilitarian bumpers, chrome roof rails and some nice wheels. That is what makes a crossover so true to its nature. Curvier than Coleen Rooney and certainly more agile, the C3 is a groovy car, in fact 'groovy', 'funky', 'retro', these 60's phrases perfectly describe the essence of the Picasso and together make more of a bold statement, than suspending it from the ceiling of the TATE modern.
Performance
Moving on from looking 'cooler than a cucumber' (wow the 60's must have been cool), let's talk about performance and the reason that the C3 has to win this group test. Whereas the Urban Cruiser and the Soul are available in just 2 engines, the C3 has 4, two of which BMW have worked together with Citroen to create. I tested the 1.6 Petrol, which compared to Kia's disappointing 1.6 diesel, feels sporty, nippy and like you could overcome even the fattest sleeping policeman.
With a 0-62mph time quicker than both the Kia and Toyota, the Citroen feels almost sporty to drive and has handling as smooth as Chris Evans' beautiful bottom. Match this with the best maximum speed of 117mph, and you have yourself a performance to rival Miss Tina's private dancing.
Comfort and Equipment
Inside the Picasso is even more of a tardis than the Urban Cruiser. With space to swing a cat, you will be able to cram your entire luggage in for a month and still have room for a barn dance.
In terms of interior styling, the Picasso is clean, and takes hints from its older sibling the C4, including central dashboard storage, and a large central display for everyone to see. The only downside being that you don't get Citroen's brilliant steering wheel, where the wheel moves independently from its centre. That said, the materials are still solid and don't feel cheap and nasty.
Seating is comfortable and cabin noise is reduced due to thicker glass and an insulated engine, perfect for long journeys. Twin that with a fantastic stereo, with steering wheel mounted controls, for all those Disney hits and you'll have great fun singing away the hours. More legroom than an airbus, the C3 is comfortable, wherever you sit.
As mentioned previous, the Picasso has a cavernous selection of storage solutions, from the glove box to under floor storage in the rear and even an adjustable boot floor for extra storage height in the boot.
To finish this all off you get a funky interior mirror too, so you can glare angrily at the misbehaving rascals in the back, until they've finished propping and collapsing their aeroplane style tables.
Summary
Overall the C3 Picasso is a very welcome member of the C3 family, and even though I'm not a family man myself, I can appreciate the great fun this car is to drive, as even when the kids are at school, you will still look like the modern 'cool' mum/dad driving this car.
A true crossover, and a car that will fit seamlessly into any scenery, whether it be the rugged cityscape or the rolling hills of the countryside, you will have great pleasure in driving a great vehicle.