For a safety-conscious buyer, it is important to consider the safest cars, or top safety-rated cars in India, when purchasing a vehicle. Today, we look at Hyundai Exter and Citroen C3, in terms of their safety aspects.
In this article, we will share
- What a safety-conscious buyer looks for in a car
- Hyundai Exter vs Citroen C3 – an in-depth look at their safety features, ratings, and driver assistance features
- How to pick the right car for you
The Citroen C3 has a good Global NCAP (GNCAP) rating, and essential safety features. The Hyundai Exter, besides a commendable GNCAP rating, has multiple airbags and other safety features that buyers will appreciate. So, which one is the car to pick? Read on.
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What a Safety conscious buyer looks for in a car
Here’s what a safety-conscious buyer should look for in a car:
- Safety – What safety features does the car have? What is its safety rating?
- Driver assistance – Does the car have features like parking camera, rear parking sensors, follow-me-home headlights, etc.
- Space – Does the car have enough interior space
A safety-conscious buyer emphasizes robust protective features in a car. Key attributes include ABS, a high number of airbags, crash warning systems, and a high GNCAP rating in the best cars with safety features.
Additional safety features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC), day/night IRVM, and fog lights further contribute to safety on the road.
Superior high-speed stability, the inclusion of rear parking sensors, and traction control are also sought after. Such buyers prioritize both passenger and driver safety, and prefer these features over aesthetics and luxury.
Why Hyundai Exter and Citroen C3 are Popular
Both Hyundai Exter and Citroen C3 have garnered attention among safety-centric buyers. Hyundai Exter’s variants often come equipped with a commendable six airbags, ABS, and impressive high-speed stability.

Citroen C3, on the other hand, boasts features like a GNCAP rating of 4, indicating high crashworthiness, and also provides essential features such as ABS and rear parking sensors.

Both vehicles, with their array of safety features, resonate with those valuing protection on the road. Furthermore, their competitive pricing combined with these safety attributes makes them favorable choices in the market.
Hyundai Exter and Citroen C3 Variants Shortlist in Rs 8-10 Lakh Range
For Citroen C3, we have:
Variant | Price (INR) as on 21 August 2023 |
Feel Dual Tone Turbo | ₹ 828,000 |
Puretech 110 Feel | ₹ 843,000 |
Shine Dual Tone Turbo | ₹ 892,000 |
For Hyundai Exter, we have:
Variant | Price (INR) as on 21 August 2023 |
SX | ₹ 800,000 |
SX Opt | ₹ 864,000 |
SX AMT | ₹ 868,000 |
Citroen C3 Feel Dual Tone Turbo
With ABS, two airbags, day/night IRVM, and a GNCAP rating of 4, it offers a blend of essential safety features at an affordable price. However, the absence of ESC and fog lights might be a concern for some.

Citroen C3 Puretech 110 Feel
While it mirrors the Feel Dual Tone Turbo in many features, it lacks the added advantage of crash warning and fog lights, making it a slightly less appealing choice. If you’re a style-conscious buyer, you can read our comparison of the C3 with Tata Punch.
Citroen C3 Shine Dual Tone Turbo
Offers ABS, two airbags, crash warning, day/night IRVM, and ESC. Its GNCAP rating of 4, coupled with additional rear parking camera, amplifies its safety appeal.
Hyundai Exter SX
A compelling choice with ABS, six airbags, crash warning, and traction control. With a GNCAP rating of 4 and added fog lights, it emerges as a strong contender in safety. If you’re a first-time car buyer, you can read our comparison of the Exter with Tata Punch.

Hyundai Exter SX Opt
Almost mirrors the SX variant, but without the tilt & telescopic steering column. If you appreciate tech and gadgets in cars, you can read our comparison of the Exter and Hyundai i20.
Hyundai Exter SX AMT
Similar to the SX Opt variant but lacks cruise control. Its safety profile remains commendable.

Our Pick for the Best variant among Hyundai Exter and Citroen C3 for Safety-conscious buyers
The Hyundai Exter SX emerges as the most compelling choice for a safety-conscious buyer. Its suite of features, including ABS, six airbags, and crash warning, ensures comprehensive protection.
The day/night IRVM, traction control, and fog lights further enhance safety. With a GNCAP rating of 4, the vehicle promises superior crashworthiness. Additionally, the tilt & telescopic steering column ensures comfortable and safe driving dynamics.
The Top 3 choices
- Hyundai Exter SX
- Citroen C3 Shine Dual Tone Turbo
- Hyundai Exter SX Opt
Attributes | Exter SX | C3 Shine Dual Tone Turbo | Exter SX Opt |
ABS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Airbags (number) | 6 | 2 | 6 |
Crash warning | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Day/night IRVM | Yes | Yes | Yes |
ESC | No | Yes | No |
Fog lights | Yes | Yes | Yes |
GNCAP Rating | 4 | 4 | 4 |
High-Speed Stability | Yes | Stable | Yes |
Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Traction Control | No | No | No |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Hyundai Exter SX stands out with six airbags, ABS, and an impressive GNCAP rating.
- The Citroen C3 Shine Dual Tone Turbo follows closely, boasting ESC and crash warning features.
- Finally, the Hyundai Exter SX Opt, with its six airbags and day/night IRVM, rounds out the top three.
All three variants offer a combination of essential safety features, making them prime choices for the safety-conscious buyer.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
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