Faults:

I too went for another C3 because my first one was so good.

The new one looks much better, but it is not the 'goer' that the first one was, despite having a bigger engine. It quickly runs out of stamina on any hill (my first 1.4 smaller-engined diesel used to laugh at them). Okay, the gearbox has to be used. I have no doubt that overall performance figures are slightly better on this one, but the 'feeling' is that it is heavier and slower, especially around town.

So the new one looks a real glamour car (my old C3 didn't), but it does not seem to deliver, and that is disappointing.

Bonnet keeps opening on its own.

Child locks keep operating, and even pressing the release button on the dash will not allow rear passengers to get out!

Cup holders have mysteriously gone.

Fuel consumption is higher than the Citroen estimate.

General Comments:

I still like many things about this car, and would buy another Citroen, but would be more careful in checking things out.

Faults:

Nothing yet.

General Comments:

I've only had the use of this car for a couple of months, but long enough for me to develop a good impression of it. Previous car was an old model C3, which I still have, but is now used by another family member.

It really is hard to believe that this car is from the same manufacturer as the previous model. The issues with build quality have largely been put to bed. The interior feels tightly screwed down with no squeaks or rattles. Body panels feel solid, and noise levels have been drastically reduced. Gone are the unloved digi-clocks to be replaced with stylish analogue dials. The new C3 looks classy inside and out.

One of the big selling points of the new model is the 'Zenith' windscreen, which extends over the driver's and passenger's heads. Now this takes some getting used to when driving, but when you do, you very much appreciate the extra light that it lets in. Time will tell if this novelty wears off.

A few negatives though, the old model had enough space beside the clutch pedal to park my foot while cruising; this one has a very compact footwell and the pedals seem very close together. The light and vague steering has been inherited from the older model, together with the slushy gearshift. The car also feels like it's put on some weight, which reflects in slightly poorer economy and performance.

Overall I'm quite optimistic with the new C3. The jury is still out on reliability, though the diesel engines are proven; being used in Fords, Peugeots, Mazdas and others. If I do have any problems, you'll be the first to know!