Does the cheapest Citroën suffer from the new tax?

The penalty, which used to be counted in tens of euros yesterday, now amounts to hundreds for small thermal vehicles. What is the impact for the Citroën C3?

A new car for 15,000 euros and well equipped, here is the promise made and kept by Citroën with the new C3. The right price for a B-segment car with 5 doors and all the modern comforts. In 2025, this is a real industrial and commercial feat. The new Citroën C3 gasoline – and not electric in this case – therefore deserves attention.

The entry-level version at 15,240 euros is equipped with the famous 3-cylinder PureTech engine with 100 horsepower, coupled with a manual gearbox. Don’t panic, this is the chain-driven reliability version. Aside from its bothersome oil bath belt issue, the PureTech engine was an excellent block from its first generation, efficient and high-performing. No reason to discard it, but a timing chain was necessary. The basic trim YOU comes with the standard “free” color known as Blue Monte Carlo. Inside, the fabric upholstery is black/gray houndstooth.

The essentials in Citroën style

One detail that stands out on this YOU version, however, is that the radio (and music in general) is only accessible via your smartphone and a dedicated MyCitroën Play app. Not very practical or very safe when changing driving lanes on the move. From a safety and convenience perspective, we’ve seen better. Lastly, the sound quality will be limited to two front speakers. Let’s not forget that we are talking about a car costing 15,000 euros in 2025.

The only thing to consider is the Malus (tax penalty) to disturb the quiet career of our chevron badge city car. Although it can be considered “clean,” its engine is not deemed sufficiently eco-friendly, emitting 126g of CO2 per kilometer and incurring a registration tax of 230 euros in 2024. Starting March 1st, this penalty will rise to 330 euros, making the actual purchase price of this Citroën C3 reach 15,570 euros! No worries, and we can imagine that Citroën will make a small gesture to offset this increase. Recall that the car was offered at launch promotion for 14,990 euros.

In the end, for a price lower than a Renault Twingo that is outdated, the Citroën C3 gasoline version in YOU trim offers more and positions itself as a market reference. Its 100 horsepower particularly ensure it can escape city centers and suburbs, which is not granted to all “entry-level” city cars.

READ ALSO: The definitive ecological Bonuses & Malus for 2025