Citroen C3: Comparing Its Variants Under Rs 9 Lakh for First-time Car Buyers

Buying a car for the first time, but confused about which are the best or top cars for first-time buyers in India, and which option to choose? Let’s look at the Citroen C3, and find out which variants will be the best for you.

In this first-time car buyers’ guide, we will share

• What a first-time buyer should look for in a car
• Citroen C3 – an in-depth guide to its variants, features, cost, and driveability
• How to pick the right car for you

So, which variants of the C3 in the compact SUV segment are affordable, and which is the right car for a first-time car buyer? Let’s find out.

Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500

What a First-time car buyer looks for in a car

This is what a first-time buyer should look for in a car:

• Safety – What safety features does the car have? What is its safety rating?
• Affordability – The car should be well within budget and affordable.
• Fuel efficiency – The car should have good fuel efficiency, thereby reducing its running cost.
• Ease of driving – The car should be easy to drive, with features that help in driving and offer convenience for new drivers.

First-time car buyers often seek a balance of safety, affordability, fuel efficiency, and user-friendly features. A vehicle that isn’t too complicated to operate yet provides a comfortable and secure driving experience is ideal. 

Since the initial investment is a significant concern, buyers look for cars that offer essential safety and convenience features within a reasonable price range. Additionally, fuel efficiency is a priority to ensure low running costs. 

They may also prefer vehicles with modern tech features for an enhanced driving experience without a steep learning curve.

Why Citroen C3 is Popular

The Citroen C3 caters well to first-time buyers due to its compact size, reasonable pricing, and essential safety features. Its modern design appeals to the younger demographic while ensuring ease of maneuverability in urban settings. 

The car’s adequate ground clearance of 180mm also makes it suitable for Indian roads. Besides, the Citroen C3 offers power steering and convenient features like a tilt steering column and power front windows which simplify driving. 

The car’s basic yet functional OEM audio system and the user-friendly LCD touchscreen also provide a comfortable in-car environment. Additionally, the presence of safety features like ABS and rear parking sensors contribute to a safer driving experience which is crucial for those newly accustomed to driving. 

The fuel efficiency of 19.3 kmpl ensures that running costs remain low, making Citroen C3 a popular choice among the first-time car buyers. Also Read: Citroen C3 Aircross vs Honda Elevate: Comparing Their Variants Priced Rs 10-12 Lakh

Citroen C3 variants shortlist in Rs 7-9 Lakh Range

Citroen C3 Puretech 82 Shine and Shine DT

The Puretech 82 Shine and Shine DT variants are priced closely, with a marginal difference. Both come with ABS, power steering, power windows at the front, and rear parking sensors, among others, providing a foundation of safety and convenience. However, the Shine DT (dual tone) may appeal to buyers seeking a stylistic edge. If you’re a safety-conscious car buyer, you can read our comparison of the C3 with Hyundai Exter.

Citroen C3 Feel Dual Tone Turbo and Shine Dual Tone Turbo

Feel Dual Tone Turbo and Shine Dual Tone Turbo variants introduce fog lights for enhanced visibility but at a higher price. They also include adaptive cruise control, adding a layer of driving ease and safety. We have also compared the C3 and Exter for tech-savvy gadget lovers.

Citroen C3 Puretech 110 Feel

The Puretech 110 Feel is priced slightly higher due to its better performance credentials with a more powerful engine, yet it lacks fog lights compared to the Turbo variants. You can also check out our comparison of the C3 with Exter for performance enthusiasts.

Our Pick for the Best Citroen C3 variant for First-time car buyers

Considering the balance between price, safety, and essential convenience features, the Puretech 82 Shine emerges as the best variant for a first-time car buyer. Priced at a reasonable INR 760,000, it provides crucial safety features like ABS and rear parking sensors, along with convenience features like power steering, power windows, and a user-friendly LCD touchscreen. 

The ground clearance of 180mm makes it apt for varying road conditions. The absence of certain features like fog lights and adaptive cruise control in this variant compared to higher-priced variants is a trade-off, but the core safety and convenience attributes are well covered within a budget-friendly range making it a preferred choice for first-time buyers. Also Read: Citroen C3 Aircross vs MG Astor: Comparing Their Variants Priced Rs 12-14 Lakh

The Top 3 choices

The top three choices for first-time car buyers among the Citroen C3 variants are Puretech 82 Shine, Puretech 82 Shine DT, and Feel Dual Tone Turbo. 

How to Pick the Right Car for You

• While the Shine variants are more budget-friendly, the Feel Dual Tone Turbo introduces additional features like fog lights and adaptive cruise control, providing an enhanced driving experience at a slightly higher price.

These variants cater well to the primary needs of first-time car buyers, providing a blend of essential safety and convenience features. The slight price variation among these variants offers a range of options to fit varying budget preferences. 

If you’re interested in reading more such guides to popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.

Also read: Upcoming 2022 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza rendered