The Citroen C3 Pluriel
Published: 30th May 2003
The C3 Pluriel offers good all-round performance thanks to its two remarkably efficient petrol engines. The top of the range 1.6i 16V model is fitted with Citroen’s acclaimed rally-style SensoDrive gearbox.
The variable power assisted steering helps C3 Pluriel to provide firm, confident handling at speed while making light work of zipping round town and performing parking manoeuvres.
It’s an agile and stable car on the move helped by its short overhangs and wide tracks, while the suspension system uses MacPherson type struts with anti-roll bars at the front and rear, and a flexible transverse beam at the rear to provide a reassuring but relaxed ride.
1.6i 16V Engine
As well as the extra oomph offered by this 110hp 1.6i 16V engine, drivers also have the pleasure of using the latest SensoDrive gearbox, with paddle gearchange. Giving a top speed of 117mph, it will also accelerate to 62mph from standing in just 12.6 seconds.
The advanced gearbox also helps keep running costs down, managing exceptional economy with nearly 43mpg on the combined cycle and over 50mpg in motorway conditions. And a CO2 emissions level of 157g/km puts the C3 Pluriel into one of the lowest tax bands possible.
Changing gear with SensoDrive is an absolute joy. Simply flick the paddles located behind the steering wheel, or nudge the gearlever, to change gears. And if that seems like too much hard work, a button by the gear lever can be pressed to select an automatic driving mode.
1.4i Petrol Engine
The 1.4i petrol model is not afraid of stretching its legs out of town and is capable of a 101mph top speed, while about town drivers appreciate the keen, free-revving 75hp engine that takes the C3 Pluriel to 62mph from standing in under 14 seconds.Marvellously efficient, the C3 Pluriel will happily return 41.5mpg on the combined cycle and over 50mpg on the extra urban cycle. With a CO2 emissions level of 163g/km it falls into one of the lowest tax bands possible.
