The first generation of the C3, unveiled at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show and the 2001 Bologna Motor Show, was marketed in January 2002 as a five-door hatchback and came with 1.1, 1.4 and 1.6 litre petrol engines, and 1.4 and 1.6 litre diesel engines. All variants were equipped with a manual five-speed transmission except for the Stop & Start model, which was fitted with the SensoDrive electric gearbox. This version was the only one featuring an optional four-speed automatic gearbox.
Based on the PSA Group’s philosophy, the C3 shares many components with the Peugeot 206 and 1007 models.
For increased fuel efficiency, some C3s come with a start-stop system, capable of automatically stopping the engine when unnecessary and immediately restarting it when needed.
Citroën C3 Lumiere
The Citroën C3 Lumiere was a concept car that previewed the production Citroën C3. Introduced in 1998, the 5-door hatchback had 4 seats and rear suicide doors for better access for passengers sitting in the back. It had a 5-speed manual transmission and was powered by a 1.1 L TU1 I4 petrol engine.
Facelift
In late 2005, the C3 received a minor facelift, which included a more zealous front bumper, wider lower air intake, a single air intake slit below the modified radiator grille and a newly positioned number plate. Its rear end also had revamped light clusters with a crystal-coloured central section. Inside, the interior was enhanced with a re-designed dashboard with a premium finish, as well as a more modern instrument panel for easier reading. Furthermore, the addition of light-grey embellishers around the fascia and air vents, new front and rear door panels and trims created a more updated look. The steering was also enhanced to weight up while accelerating.
Citroën also added a new 1.6 L 16-valve HDi diesel engine to the range, rated at 110 bhp (82 kW; 110 PS). The same changes were also applied to the Citroën C3 Pluriel version.
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