The fonz-tastic new Citroen C3 range

Happy Days really are here again, and it’s not just Citroen’s latest TV advertising campaign that is bringing a smile to new car buyers.

Europe’s best selling five-door supermini - the Citroen C3 – is now even better value for money thanks to the introduction of a series of important enhancements, which make it more stylish, safe and refined than ever before. In addition, the range will feature the Company’s powerful, advanced 110hp diesel engine for the very first time.

With UK diesel sales on the up, the introduction of the Company’s 1.6HDi 16V common rail diesel engine offers an additional dimension to the C3 range. Providing 110hp and a maximum 181lb.ft of torque, while returning an equally impressive 63mpg on the combined cycle, this ultra-clean new engine is also fitted with a particulate filter - a first for a Citroen supermini.

With the popularity of the C3 meaning that there are already more than a million on the continent’s roads, Citroen has deliberately chosen not to make major changes to its distinctive curvy shape. On the outside there is a revised and more classy front end, which includes a new grille and bumper, attractive new light clusters that brighten up the rear, as well as smart new alloys and wheel trims on certain models.

Inside, the changes are instantly apparent, with the improved quality of the restyled dashboard helping it both look and feel more attractive and sturdy. The door panels have been re-sculpted to reflect the updated interior design, whilst the central dash section, air vents and gear lever all get smart, light metallic grey embellishers. The driver information display now incorporates an easier-to-read, modern LCD screen.

On the road the new C3 line-up incorporates plenty of under-the-skin improvements, designed to provide a more positive and rewarding driving experience - all models benefit from modifications to the suspension and steering. On top of this, numerous additional structural reinforcements make the C3 even safer in the event of an impact.

The new models are competitively priced with a cashback-inclusive price of £11,795 for the 1.6HDi 16V VTR, whilst the 1.6i 16V SX Auto is expected to cost just a few pounds more, spec for spec, than the 1.4i version which it will replace when it goes on sale at the end of the year. The whole of the C3 range, which is now fully Euro IV compliant, continues to offer superb value, with the 1.1i L available for less than £7,000.

Managing director of Citroen UK Ltd, Xavier Duchemin, said: "The enduring appeal of the Citroen C3 has been given a big lift with these enhancements to the line-up. It is also further evidence of our commitment to diesel technology and the consequent lower costs that this can bring for customers."