C3 choice now automatic

Citroën has launched a revised C3 supermini. And auto buyers will benefit from the fitment of a 1.6-litre engine to replace the previous model's 1.4-litre power unit.

The C3's standout looks are largely unaltered in the model change though there is a more prominent grille (with larger chevrons), along with a strong bumper design and rear lamp cluster changes. The exterior makeover is completed with new alloys for the 1.6-litre and new wheel trims for the 1.4s.

Inside the C3's dash has been facelifted with revised instruments, centre console and, according to Citroën: "a refinement in the use of materials"

"More than a million Citroën C3s have been sold since its launch, making it one of the most successful Citroëns ever produced," said Miles Williams, General Manager for Citroën in Australia.

"Here in Australia the C3 has changed the local perception of Citroën, bringing the brand's Australian image in line with its worldwide reputation for building classic small cars that are fresh, dynamic and unique."

"With the arrival of the facelifted Citroën C3 we have taken the opportunity to focus on the strengths of the C3, with the range now consisting of a manual gearbox entry level version and luxuriously well-equipped version with a more potent engine and the choice of a manual or automatic gearbox," said Mr Williams.

Changes have been made to boost suspension refinement and response (including increased front suspension stiffness and increased anti-roll bar stiffness) and ABS is now standard across the range but the main mechanical change is the adoption of the 80kW 1.6-litre engine for the automatic variant.

This is a marked increase in power compered to the 55kW of the 1.4-litre engine and cuts 0-100km/h time from 17.7sec to a more respectable 11.5sec.

The revised Citroën C3 opens with a recommended retail price of $19,990 for the C3 SX 1.4 manual, while the 1.6-litre C3 Exclusive is $21,990 for the manual version and $23,990 for the new automatic version.