Since the dawn of motoring, drivers have spent their lives in pursuit of the ultimate combo: elegance and economy. Pretty things are rarely cheap – but we reckon we’ve found the Holy Grail. Citroen have become bored with Mini dominating the style vs savings market and have sent in the DS3, available from as little as £11,750, to shake things up.
Let’s give this beauty a full inspection and, if you like what you see, we can sort you out with some Citroen finance and get you behind the wheel of this low-cost looker.
What’s it look like?
At first glance, the Citroen DS3 is a tasty combination of old-school good looks and exciting new tech. Paying as little as this, you’d expect to have to sacrifice on style. No worries here, though, since the DS3 is a classy, compact and fully kitted out machine. This is a pretty image-conscious sector, so it’s a competitive space – but we’re confident that the DS3 competes on both style and substance, even with major premium hatchback rivals like the Mini.
What’s inside?
Inside you’ll find a sexy and very generous interior kit – the centre pod’s got drive info and full connectivity, as well as a Sat Nav and other goodies. And for drivers who like to keep their on-the-road experience old-school, you’re looking at a nice user-friendly dashboard.
Take a look up and you’ll find a roof lining insulated with three layers and a ceiling-mounted switch array. Our personal highlight, though, is the DS3’s mesmerising 3D tail lights and front LED daytime running lights which make for a pretty style addition.
And what about under the hood?
Just because this car’s on the small side doesn’t mean it can’t deliver a kick. You’ve got three engine options to choose from, an 81bhp 1.2-litre three cylinder and 1.6-litre four cylinder engine with 118bhp or 154bhp depending on spec – plus two 1.6 diesel options boasting 91bhp or 113bhp. Whether you go for a the sportier petrol option or opt for a more economical diesel, you won’t have to sacrifice style for performance – and the DS3 is undeniably a very smooth ride. The DS3’s fuel economy stands at 5.9l/100km on 95 octane.
How does it drive?
The DS3 drives like a dream. Above all else, this is a fun drive – with flat cornering, powerful brakes and very sporty precise steering. This model might not boast the power of others using the same engine, but the Citroen DS3 is undoubtedly a nippy and capable little beaut.
So what’s the verdict?
For those of you man enough to admit that size doesn’t matter, this cheeky hatchback could be just the bargain beauty you need.
If you’re looking for a new car and the sexy, affordable DS3 sounds like a smart investment, you’re in luck. Even if this price tag is still a little steep for you, the Car Loan Warehouse offers Citroen finance so that you can find style and savings in one place. Sound alright? Check out our loan calculator to find your rate and let’s get you inside the DS3.
