This week a preview drive in the Citroen C3 hatch – a small French five door hatch that has so much appeal – yes it’s different and in many ways clever. A small car that feels much bigger in many ways. The looks are funky but so charming with clever use of colours and highlights and that great French plus – very comfortable seats. It arrives in a single Shine model at 26,990 drive-away – a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol six-speed automatic – the engine voted International Engine of the Year three times is really impressive – with good torque its performance is strong but also very relaxed. It makes the drive experience for a small car about as good as it gets. Ride and handling – typically French – long travel and skewed for ride comfort and the Citroen C3 offers a very comfortable ride. Many small European cars are fitted with low profile tyres and sports suspensions today and good ride has gone out the window. I’m David Berthon

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