Citroen C3 I (Phase I, 2002) 1.4i 16V (88 Hp) Automatic


Overall Rating

7.7 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Citroen C3:

The Citroën C3 is a supermini car produced by Citroën since April 2002. It replaced the Citroën Saxo in the model line up, and is currently in its fourth generation. Initial models of the Citroën C3 were built using the same platform as the Peugeot 206. The third generation model was released in January 2017, and has been developed alongside the Peugeot 208 since 2019.
The C3 is produced in a five-door hatchback body style, with the first generation also being produced in a two-door convertible version, called the C3 Pluriel. A three-door hatchback, with a similar design as the second generation, was available as the Citroën DS3 and marketed as a premium model....(Read more on Wikipedia)

I (Phase I, 2002) Overview:

Citroen C3 (I (Phase I, 2002)). With 133 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~7.6 l/100km). Weighing only 1044 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 14.5 s). The top speed reaches 180 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

1.4i 16V (88 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

Offers convenience with an automatic gearbox, but performance is somewhat dulled and less engaging compared to the manual equivalent.

Fuel Economy

Fuel consumption is higher than manual versions, typical for older automatic transmissions, making it less efficient.

Best Use Case: City Driving (for ease of use)

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Comfortable ride quality, typical of Citroen's focus on suspension.
  • • Economical diesel engine options offer excellent fuel efficiency.
  • • Spacious and practical interior for its class, with good boot capacity.
  • • Distinctive and charming design stands out from competitors.
  • • Good visibility from the driver's seat enhances urban maneuverability.

Cons:

  • • Some engines feel underpowered, particularly the 1.1i, for anything beyond city driving.
  • • SensoDrive gearbox can be clunky, slow, and has known reliability issues.
  • • Interior plastics feel cheap in places, detracting from the overall cabin quality.
  • • Road noise can be noticeable at higher speeds, impacting long-distance comfort.
  • • Older automatic transmissions are inefficient and further dull performance.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I (Phase I, 2002): 2002 - 2005).

General:
Brand:Citroen
Model:C3
Generation:I (Phase I, 2002)
Modification (Engine):1.4i 16V (88 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:2003
End of production:2005
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:88 Hp @ 5250 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:64.7 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:133 Nm @ 3250 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:KFU ET3J4 More details about the engine KFU ET3J4
Engine displacement:1361
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:3.9 l
Coolant:5.9 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:75 mm
Piston Stroke:77 mm
Compression ratio:11.2:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:7.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:6 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 3
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:14.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:14.5 sec
Maximum speed:180 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:11.9 kg/Hp, 84.3 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.8 kg/Nm, 127.4 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:13.8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1044
Max. weight:1517
Max load:473
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1150 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:305 l
Fuel tank capacity:45 l
Size:
Length:3850 mm [Same length.]
Width:1667 mm [Same width.]
Height:1529 mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2460 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1435 mm
Rear (Back) track:1435 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.5 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size185/60 R15
Wheel rims size5.5J x 15
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson
Rear suspensionSemi-independent, coil spring

How many miles have you covered in your Citroen C3? Share your journey!