On Board the Citroën ë-C3 – Our First Impressions

Citroën promises a “home-like” experience for its new ë-C3. We stepped inside to check.

The interior of the small electric Citroën features simple yet particularly well-finished surfaces. A small logo on the door armrest immediately sets the tone: “Be Cool” ! Okay, let’s stay cool and try to appreciate the experience offered by the ë-C3.

The Citroën Advanced Comfort seats are particularly comfortable despite their reduced size, kept minimal to fit into the small city car. The lateral support is more than enough for urban driving where the absorption of lateral G-forces isn’t a major criterion. However, for quick getaways in front of a bakery or school to grab a baguette and pick up the kids, they’re perfect. The small rectangular steering wheel fits well in the hand, as do the main controls. Nothing revolutionary about this Citroën, but it offers a complete, cohesive set, and is particularly well-finished for its price.

Thanks to the generous height (1.57m), front seat occupants benefit from a perfect elevated position to face everyday obstacles. In case of forgetfulness, the ground clearance of 163 mm for the ë-C3 versus 135 mm for the previous model will forgive a neglected curb or a small pothole that was not anticipated. This increased height offers sufficient visibility outside, despite the small size of the side windows. Although only 19 mm longer and 6 mm wider than its predecessor, the new ë-C3 provides a more spacious interior. At the rear, despite being 1.80m under the roof and with the front seat well reclined, legs fit comfortably without cramping or risk of cramps.

The width between the rear wheel arches of 1015 mm allows for a volume of 310 liters. It’s not perfectly rectangular, but sufficient for daily shopping or a small travel bag. If needed, the 60-40 split rear bench, unfortunately without a flat floor, will allow loading larger items.

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