- The Citroen C3 introduces a new Sport Edition for the Indian market.
- It’s mostly an appearance package with sporty decals and interior upgrades.
- It retains the stock powertrain with up to 109 horsepower in turbo form.
Citroen’s latest effort in India has all the trappings of a sporty model, but don’t expect it to burn rubber. The Indian-spec Citroen C3 Sport Edition offers some upgraded visuals and a few interior tweaks but keeps the same lackluster powertrain and suspension setup. If you’re looking for a speed demon, this isn’t it – unless you’re racing traffic in Delhi.
For those who like to look fast without actually going fast, the Sport Edition’s exterior has you covered. The model gets racing-style decals splashed across the bumper, hood, roof, doors, and tailgate. Citroen kept the 15-inch alloy wheels, but they did slap on some bold “C3 Sport Edition” badges on the front doors for added flair. The new Garnet Red color option is also part of the package.
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Inside, we find leather-style seat upholstery with Sport lettering on the seatbacks, aluminum pedals, seatbelt cushions, and special floor mats. Equipment can include a 10.2-inch infotainment, four speakers, ambient lighting, and six airbags. Those who want more can get the optional Teck Kit which adds wireless charging and a dashcam.
Interestingly, the Sport Edition is a package that can be combined with the existing Live, Feel, and Shine grades. Note that unlike the European-spec Citroen C3 and C3 Aircross, their Indian equivalents have yet to adopt the automaker’s latest styling language.
Citroen India
Unfortunately, the wannabe hot hatch is all show and no go as it doesn’t get any power upgrades. This means it can be had with the naturally-aspirated 1.2-liter engine, producing an measly 81 hp (60 kW / 82 PS) and 115 Nm (85 lb-ft) of torque.
Thankfully, there is a more powerful option, a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder which is good for 109 hp (81 kW / 110 PS). This one has 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque when paired with a manual gearbox, or up to 205 Nm (151 lb-ft) with the six-speed torque converter automatic.
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Citroen brags about the “exhilarating acceleration” of the model that completes the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in 10 seconds. This is probably quick enough for racing moped bikes on India’s chaotic traffic.
The Sport Edition retains the standard suspension setup, with an advertised ground clearance of 180 mm (7 inches) allowing for some soft off-roading.
Price and Value
On the plus side, the Citroen C3 Sport Edition comes at a relatively affordable price. The model adds just Rs 21,000 ($244) to the price of the standard C3, with an additional Rs 15,000 ($174) if you want the Teck Kit. Depending on the trim and powertrain, the price of this sporty-looking SUV ranges from Rs 6.44-10.21 lakh ($7,500-11,800). So, if you’re okay with looking like you’re driving a performance car while still getting the same old C3, it’s an interesting option.