[theturbogirl]

Hello Everyone,

This is my first long post on Team Bhp and I begin with my sincere thanks to members of this forum for having chosen me to be part of this beautiful forum. Recently, I acquired a mini bullet - Citroen C3, Shine 1.2 (NA) and I am here today to share with all of you my experience till day.

It all began with the need to bid farewell to our trusted Tata Nano, a faithful companion that had served us well. With 80,000 kilometers on the odometer, our Nano had been the go-to choice for my husband's frequent trips to Delhi from Faridabad. Its reliability and practicality made it an essential part of our lives.

As our Nano started to display signs of aging and safety concerns began to emerge, we knew it was time for an upgrade. We sought a replacement that could match the dependability of the Nano while offering enhanced safety features and a more modern driving experience. My Nano when we bid goodbye to her:


In our pursuit of finding a suitable replacement, we assessed cars to ensure the chosen vehicle would meet our specific requirements, particularly concerning ground clearance and practicality. Our initial selections were the one most prominent on roads so Tata Tiago, Tata Altroz, Honda Amaze, Nissan Magnite, and Couple of Hyundais. However, as we delved deeper, it became evident that the comfort factor and driving dynamics were paramount for us, narrowing down our options. The Honda Amaze, Tata Tiago, and Tata Altroz showcased their strengths in drivability.

Although we considered the Nissan Magnite due to its rising popularity, the indifferent attitude displayed by the Nissan Faridabad dealership was a deterrent. Trust in a brand's service and customer support is crucial, and unfortunately, Nissan's lack of attentiveness led us to exclude it from consideration, even without a test drive.

We narrowed down our options to either Honda Amaze or Tata Tiago, aiming for a blend of reliability, performance, driving dynamics, and comfort. While both cars held promise, we were hesitant due to compromises with our specific needs in the case of Honda Amaze (the hatchback with good ground clearance) and concerns about potential service issues with Tata Tiago. Nonetheless, an intriguing turn of events awaited us.

Citroen – How and Why

My journey with Citroen began when my husband stumbled upon their website, intrigued by their unique approach of allowing customization and direct delivery to customers. It was refreshing to encounter a company striving to connect with customers directly, ensuring a personalized experience. This innovative approach compelled us to explore further, giving Citroen a fair chance in my considerations. Upon reaching out to Citroen, I discovered they didn't have a showroom in Faridabad. However, to my pleasant surprise, they went the extra mile by offering to bring their vehicles directly to my residence from Gurgaon, a distance of approximately 45 kilometers. This level of dedication and customer-centric service resonated with me, further bolstering my confidence in Citroen and solidifying my decision to opt for the Citroen C3. It's not just about the car; it's about the brand's commitment to providing a remarkable and personalized buying experience.

When I first got behind the wheel of the Citroen C3, my feelings were a bit of a mixed bag. The car wowed me with its comfort and suspension, but I couldn't ignore the absence of some basic features like ORVM, defogger, fog lights, and rear mirror adjustments. It left me uncertain about going ahead with the purchase. However, around two weeks later, the dealer reached out, sharing details about the Shine model that addressed these concerns. Intrigued by the improvements, I decided to give the car a second chance. Having recently driven the excellent Tiago, I wanted to ensure a fair and thorough comparison before making my final decision.I arranged test drives for both the Citroen C3 Turbo and NA (Naturally Aspirated) variants, alongside another test drive for the Tiago. After careful consideration, I eliminated the Tiago from my shortlist due to ownership experience of earlier owned Indigo. Honda Amaze was a half hearted decision anyway as we did not want a compact sedan.

Now that the list was shorter, and limited to Citroen, we arranged test drives for both the Citroen C3 Turbo and NA (Naturally Aspirated) variants. Turbo swayed me, but it was not fitting our requirements for a Turbo engine. We decided to go for NA engine.

Booking and delivery

With certainty in our hearts, we made the choice to book the Citroen C3, placing a down payment of INR 21,000 and promptly requesting a Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI). Citroen impressed us with their responsiveness, swiftly arranging the PDI for our chosen Citroen C3 Shine, 1.2 NA. After a thorough inspection and finding the car to be apt and meeting our expectations, we proceeded to complete the payment, securing our ownership of the Citroen C3 Shine. The deal was sealed, marking the beginning of a promising journey with our new car.

The delivery of our Citroen C3 was a remarkably smooth and pleasant process. The staff at Citroen exhibited exceptional cordiality and professionalism, leaving no room for dissatisfaction. From the delivery procedure itself to the post-delivery visits to the showroom for the number plate, the Citroen team demonstrated utmost consideration and attentiveness. Here are some pics of delivery day:


Notably, the Citroen staff made the effort to ensure our convenience at every step. They went above and beyond to deliver my RC at our home, saving us the hassle of additional trips. Moreover, any remaining paperwork and formalities were efficiently handled at our residence in Faridabad, thanks to the accommodating Citroen staff who travelled from Gurgaon. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and the willingness to accommodate our needs made the overall experience truly pleasing. I am thoroughly satisfied with the responsive and attentive approach of Citroen, reaffirming my confidence in the brand and our decision to choose the Citroen C3.

On Roads – Office to Home ad Vice Versa –

The Citroen C3 has sparked considerable interest, especially in terms of its city rides. Having spent a considerable amount of time behind the wheel, here's my detailed perception of its performance within the urban landscape.

At first glance, the initial impression might suggest that the long gear ratios could make the car feel underpowered, particularly in city traffic. However, with time and experience, mastering the first two gears becomes second nature. The mid-range performance is a real highlight; it's impressively quick, providing that needed punch for overtakes and quick maneuvers in bustling city streets.

One aspect that stands out is the distinctive diesel temperament of the C3. Despite some noticeable vibrations, the cabin remains surprisingly silent, providing a pleasant and peaceful driving experience. Personally, I appreciate the diesel-like feel, including the characteristic vibrations and engine sound—it adds character to the driving experience.

The C3 exhibits excellent maneuverability with a low turning radius, making it well-suited for navigating through tight spaces and crowded urban roads. Another noteworthy feature is the super-efficient air conditioning system, ensuring a comfortable and cool interior even in scorching city temperatures.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the C3 performs reasonably well. In a mixed city and highway driving scenario, it delivers an average mileage of 14 km/l. However, on the highway, maintaining speeds within 80 km/hr allows for an impressive average of 23 km/l. Even at higher speeds ranging from 95 to 110 km/hr, the C3 still manages a respectable average of 16 km/l.

Title: Citroen C3: A Road-Trip Marvel to Ranchi

Embarking on our regular family trip from Faridabad to Ranchi, we chose to test the mettle of our newly acquired Citroen C3 on the highways, and it certainly didn't disappoint. Citroen knows a thing or two about suspensions and it does remind me of old Fiat Linea days.

While we missed the convenience of cruise control, the car made up for it with its remarkable comfort. The way it handled potholes and rough roads was truly impressive, keeping us at ease even through challenging terrains. We litrally were asking for some rough patches to feel the difference of world in suspension we have been living with. The car's responsiveness on wet roads in Jharkhand instilled confidence, allowing us to overtake vehicles comfortably, even with a fully loaded trunk and occupied rear seats.

The long gear ratios proved to be a boon on the highway, providing a robust start and a smooth ride. Covering approximately 3000 kilometers in just two days, the Citroen C3 demonstrated its resilience and reliability. It stood the test of endurance and showcased its unwavering performance, making the journey not just about reaching our destination but thoroughly enjoying the drive. There is body roll, not much, but its there. So do not be fooled by Citroen calling it hatchback- it is not!!
Here are some pictures of our route to Ranchi from Faridabad and vice versa:

Somewhere in Poorvanchal EW



Beautiful Jharkhand:

https://youtu.be/tPTAkQyf_cE

Somewhere on Lucknow Expressway:





Load we carried: It should not be less than 70- 80 Kgs



Exiting Varanasi to Sultanpur, on Varanasi-Lucknow Road. Note the visibility of bonnet of the car:



Our usual lunch spot: Vandana Dhaba - A nice little place with good food - vegetarian only:



Coordinates of this place: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DfurT4zTQ2yFWBPN8

Headlight Throw of the car:



Closing Remarks: A Journey Well Begun

My adventure with the Citroen C3 has just commenced, and it's been an exhilarating ride so far. Acquiring this mini powerhouse marked a poignant farewell to our trusted Tata Nano, an iconic vehicle that served us faithfully. As I navigate the roads with my Citroen C3, the echoes of our Nano's reliability reverberate, urging me to embrace this new chapter with optimism.

The Citroen C3 may have had its initial hiccups, but the brand's responsive approach and commitment to addressing concerns swiftly won me over. From the enticing long drives to the smooth city rides, this car has shown its mettle. The journey to Ranchi was a testament to the C3's endurance and comfort, affirming our decision.

As I continue this journey, I eagerly anticipate the miles ahead, each one promising new experiences and memories. The Citroen C3 has already carved a special place in our hearts, promising a future filled with exciting adventures on the roads less traveled. Here's to a future filled with joyous rides and unforgettable moments with the Citroen C3. Stay tuned for more updates on this incredible journey!

This addendum has to be mentioned to complete this post. [Dear Mods, Please let me know if you want me to edit the first post and put this addendum there instead of a new reply, thanks]

The things I do not like about Citroen C3:

Low Fuel Tank Capacity : The tank capacity is 30 liters, and with our obsession for COCO pumps, we fueled the tank where we knew/saw one. All the expressway and Highways, (Agra EW, Lucknow EW, Poorvanchal EW, and GT Road (NH19) has plenty of COCO and therefore, it was not much of hassle.

Placement of Window Switch: It is not uncomfortable, but it is weird. I guess this is to ensure accessibility of the switched to both driver and passenger without adding to the cost of vehicle.

Quality of Wipers: The stock wipers are just terrible. I mean it is annoying too. Citroen, please put a decent wiper- it is also question of safety.

Higher Gear Ratios: I don't necessarily dislike this aspect, but it could potentially pose a challenge for certain prospective customers, especially in the early stages. It usually aids in faster acceleration on open roads and provides a smoother ride at higher speeds. However, if not handled correctly , some might perceive it as lacking power.

Brakes: There's room for improvement. Despite not being unfavorable, especially after witnessing the response of a fully loaded car decelerating to a halt at the speed of 100 KMPL when encountering potholes, the initial impression lingers that it could have been enhanced.

No ASS in Faridabad/Ranchi: Although Citroen service has been remarkable, deep down it hampers the confidence of taking vehicle in long rides when there are no ASS in important cities. By the way they offer service on wheels at home, which is revolutionary, but I am conservative types.

PS: On my route, there are ASS in Lucknow, Kanpur and may be Benaras. Rest is dry. By the way who cares when hubby is around during an engine breakdown.

[TheFonz]

Thanks for sharing, the C3 is a good choice. Wishing you great miles ahead.

[GTO]

Congrats on the car & thanks for sharing this review. The Citroen C3 does many things right, and its suspension is one of them. Wishing you many fun memories & road-trips with your car.

Going by your handle theturbogirl, I thought you'd have gone for the Turbo variant. It is a damn good pocket rocket.

Love the Team-BHP sticker

[theturbogirl]

Originally Posted by GTO

Going by your handle theturbogirl, I thought you'd have gone for the Turbo variant. It is a damn good pocket rocket.

I am getting lot of these . The plan was to keep the car within city limits. Therefore, Turbo was not making much sense for us. Although we travel frequently to Ranchi and elsewhere amounting to more than 1000 KMs drive, we have City and Linea for those rides.

In all fairness, we sometime regret to have not bought Turbo. The combination of turbo power with this suspension would have been out and out.

"theturbogirl" is chosen by my seven year old daughter and she is in love with her daddy's Linea.

[shankar.balan]

A very nicely written review of a very nice, highly under rated car! Well done and wishing you Many Happy Miles in your C3. Its a great car and I appreciate your choice.

Let us remember and pay homage to Monsieur Andre Citroen and his marvellous Engineering ability. Cutting edge in fact, in the instance of his use of hydraulics in the DS, the car which saved General Charles De Gaulle in the OAS attempt on his life in 1962.

[W.A.G.7]

Congratulations! That's a very well-written review. Wishing you many happy kilometres with your new Citroen. Is this the first Citroen on team-bhp? Did you consider the Tata Punch while choosing this car? Your review is confidence-inspiring, in the overall negative feedback about Citroen (in general) on team-bhp. Please keep updating your ownership experiences and how it goes in the coming months and years.

[FueledbyFury]

Finally a proper ownership thread of Citroen C3. Truly an underrated car by all means. Attaching pictures of some road trip I have done in the past month.

[Kuldeep31]

Hello Turbogirl,
Your journey with the C3 sounds like an action-packed adventure! Farewell to the trusty Tata Nano, the underrated mile-muncher. Kudos to Citroen for the responsive fixes. And the road trip to Ranchi? Epic!

Now, about those quirks: fuel stops are like treasure hunts, window switches playing hide-and-seek, wipers on a comedy show, and gear ratios, well, they're on their own track! As for brakes, they’re not bad, just practicing their dramatic entrances. And hey, with your hubby as the knight in shining armor, who needs an ASS nearby? Keep cruising those roads less traveled!

Cheers

[Dreamlifter.07]

Congratulations on your wheels! Cheers to many more miles!

I’m looking for a replacement to my 2011 i10 asta AMT in about 8 months time and if Citroen comes up with an automatic transmission within that time, then this car would be next to grace my garage. Fingers crossed 🤞

[PrasadS]

Great review and congratulations on the car.

Just a small, out of topic observation, from my side:
Going through the pictures, the image of you driving seemed a little odd to me. Looking at the elbow angle, it looks as if you push the seat ahead and sit very close to the steering. Is it the camera angle making it look like that?
If not, then any particular reason you move the seat forward?
It looks a bit inconvenient and if i sit like that, I might not he able to drive properly (to be honest i do have gorilla like long arms, disproportionate to my short 5.7ft body) I hope it works for you though.

Just to make sure i am not overthinking, i did a quick search and found this thread.
https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/techn...optimally.html (Adjusting your seat & driving position optimally)

Like the comment by GTO in the link, everyone has preference and it's not one size fits all. I just hope you are comfortable and enjoy driving to the max.
Cheers!

[gauravdgr8]

Congratulations on the buy

Wishing you happy miles with the Citroen as you had with the Nano.

What I liked about the Citroen was the view from the drivers seat and the throw of those lights. Really lights up the roads at night.

A question: How was the engine performance on the highways. Did it feel strained?

[mathew.door]

Having owned the C5 for the last 22months and having done 45k on the odo, I agree that Customer Service of Citroen ASS and the Sales team is exceptional, Though they have only one ASS in Bengaluru, the team ensures that customers are taken care of and their concerns addressed. I had a chat with an other gentleman who owns a C5 and he too agrees with my views I hope and wish that Citroen succeeds in India.

The car in itself is very good sans a few manageable niggles.

[theturbogirl]

Originally Posted by W.A.G.7

Did you consider the Tata Punch while choosing this car? Your review is confidence-inspiring, in the overall negative feedback about Citroen (in general) on team-bhp.

Hi W.A.G.7, We did not test drove Tata Punch, but my husband had opportunity to drive Tata Punch. I went by his word that Citroen feels bigger and powerful.

Originally Posted by PrasadS

Great review and congratulations on the car.

Just a small, out of topic observation, from my side:
Going through the pictures, the image of you driving seemed a little odd to me. Looking at the elbow angle, it looks as if you push the seat ahead and sit very close to the steering. Is it the camera angle making it look like that?
If not, then any particular reason you move the seat forward?
It looks a bit inconvenient and if i sit like that, I might not he able to drive properly (to be honest i do have gorilla like long arms, disproportionate to my short 5.7ft body) I hope it works for you though.

Just to make sure i am not overthinking, i did a quick search and found this thread.
https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/techn...optimally.html (Adjusting your seat & driving position optimally)

Like the comment by GTO in the link, everyone has preference and it's not one size fits all. I just hope you are comfortable and enjoy driving to the max.
Cheers!

Hi PrasadS I am not too close to steering, but am not too far as well. I think I will go by GTO observation. I am not sure if Camera has given this effect, but I was comfortable in that sitting posture.

Originally Posted by gauravdgr8

Congratulations on the buy

What I liked about the Citroen was the view from the drivers seat and the throw of those lights. Really lights up the roads at night.

A question: How was the engine performance on the highways. Did it feel strained?

Hi Gauravdgr8, I agree, the commanding position is best in class. What exactly do you mean by engine performance? In terms of power it is brilliant for a 83PS engine. Pick up for overtaking etc is effortless. Mileage wise it is good as well. Engine braking is more than average in lower gears. In higher gears, I would put it in lower bands of smooth category.

Originally Posted by mathew.door

Having owned the C5 for the last 22months and having done 45k on the odo, I agree that Customer Service of Citroen ASS and the Sales team is exceptional, Though they have only one ASS in Bengaluru, the team ensures that customers are taken care of and their concerns addressed. I had a chat with an other gentleman who owns a C5 and he too agrees with my views I hope and wish that Citroen succeeds in India.

The car in itself is very good sans a few manageable niggles.

Hi Mathew. Door, I agree with you. I hope it continues. In fact, I pray that Honda/Citroen doesn't sell like Marutis/Hyundais/Tatas/Mahindras. Sell in 15Ks range. We need your product and your attention too.

[Toni]

Originally Posted by theturbogirl

I am getting lot of these . The plan was to keep the car within city limits. Therefore, Turbo was not making much sense for us. Although we travel frequently to Ranchi and elsewhere amounting to more than 1000 KMs drive, we have City and Linea for those rides.

Good decision, even I would have bought C3 if I were in your situation. Wish you many miles with it.

Originally Posted by FueledbyFury

Finally a proper ownership thread of Citroen C3. Truly an underrated car by all means. Attaching pictures of some road trip I have done in the past month.

Attachment 2514552

Attachment 2514551

Attachment 2514553

C3 in white looks very attractive and muscular especially from rear.

[SRISRI_90]

Originally Posted by theturbogirl

The way it handled potholes and rough roads was truly impressive, keeping us at ease even through challenging terrains. We litrally were asking for some rough patches to feel the difference of world in suspension we have been living with.:

Congratulations on the New Citroen C3.

Infact i am also planning to replace my 7 year old Tata Nano, with the C3 Turbo.
I drove it and loved it. I quipped to my dad that its an " Affordable Mini Cooper", so much fun to drive.

Originally Posted by mathew.door

Having owned the C5 for the last 22months and having done 45k on the odo, I agree that Customer Service of Citroen ASS and the Sales team is exceptional

Totally agree with you , our C5 Aircross just completed its 3rd service and we are really impressed by with the service team at Citroen.

30,000 kms in 18 months and no complaints at all. Car is running excellent.