Citroen C3 I (Phase I, 2002) 1.6i 16V (109 Hp)


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 147 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~8.6 l/100km). Weighing only 1060 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 10.7 s). The top speed reaches 198 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.

1.6i 16V (109 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

The most powerful petrol option, offering lively performance and quicker acceleration, making it enjoyable for spirited driving.

Fuel Economy

Decent fuel economy for its power output, though higher than the diesel options, it's competitive for a petrol of its class.

Best Use Case: Mixed Driving / Enthusiastic Driving

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:

General:
Brand:Citroen
Model:C3
Generation:I (Phase I, 2002)
Modification (Engine):1.6i 16V (109 Hp)
Start of production:2002
End of production:2005
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:109 Hp @ 5750 rpm.
Power per litre:68.7 Hp/l
Torque:147 Nm @ 4000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:NFU TU5JP4
Engine displacement:1587
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:3.4 l
Coolant:7 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:78.5 mm
Piston Stroke:82 mm
Compression ratio:9.6:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:8.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:6.5 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:10.7 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:10.7 sec
Maximum speed:198 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:9.7 kg/Hp, 102.8 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.2 kg/Nm, 138.7 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:10.2 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1060
Max. weight:1525
Max load:465
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1150 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:305 l
Fuel tank capacity:45 l
Size:
Length:3850 mm
Width:1667 mm
Height:1529 mm
Wheelbase:2460 mm
Front track:1435 mm
Rear (Back) track:1435 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.5 m
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs
Rear brakesDisc
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

What’s the best feature of the Citroen C3? Tell us in the comments!