Citroën C3 1.6i 16v SensoDrive VTR · 109 CV (2005)

2002
Gasolina
FWD
Automático 5v
Citroën C3 - Vista 1
Citroën C3 - Vista 2
Citroën C3 - Vista 3
Citroën C3 - Vista 4

Especificaciones y análisis del Citroën C3

Power

109HP

Torque

147Nm

Consumption

6.2l/100

Emissions

-g/km

0-100 km/h

11.9s

Top Speed

192km/h

Weight

1063kg

Price

13,780

Technical summary

Fuel

Gasolina

Transmission

Automático 5v

Traction

FWD

Seats

5 / 5 doors

Trunk

305 L

Tank

45 L

Power

80 kW

Status

Current

Technical specifications

Engine

Maximum power109 CV / 80 kW
Maximum torque147 Nm
Fuel typeGasolina
TransmissionAutomático 5v

Capacities

Tank45 L
Trunk305 L

Detailed analysis of the Citroën C3 1.6i 16v SensoDrive VTR · 109 CV (2005)

General description

The 2002 Citroën C3 1.6i 16v SensoDrive VTR is a vehicle that, at first glance, invites us on a journey back in time. With its peculiar design and focus on comfort, this car presented itself as a fresh and carefree option in the utility vehicle segment. Its price of €13,780 at the time positioned it as an interesting alternative for those looking for something different, with a touch of French distinction.

Driving experience

Behind the wheel of the C3 1.6i 16v SensoDrive VTR, the predominant sensation is one of smoothness and ease. The 109 hp engine, although not an outpouring of power, is sufficient for everyday use, allowing agile driving in the city and competent performance on the road. The 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 11.9 seconds is not breathtaking, but it gets the job done. The top speed of 192 km/h is more than adequate. The SensoDrive transmission, a 5-speed automatic, aims for comfort, although it can sometimes be somewhat slow in its transitions, detracting a bit from the dynamism of the experience. The suspension, McPherson type at the front and trailing arm with torsional element at the rear, is clearly oriented towards comfort, absorbing road irregularities well and offering a pleasant ride. The electric power steering, although not the most communicative, facilitates maneuvers in urban environments. The combined consumption of 6.2 l/100km is reasonable for the era and engine type.

Design and aesthetics

The design of the 2002 Citroën C3 is, without a doubt, one of its most characteristic features. With its rounded shapes and its 'mini-van' silhouette, it stood out from the competition. The 5-door body offered good accessibility, and its compact size (3850 mm long, 1667 mm wide, and 1519 mm high) made it ideal for the city. The 305-liter trunk was quite generous for its segment, making it a practical companion for shopping or short getaways. The interior, although with hard plastics, was well resolved and offered good habitability for four occupants, with a fifth seat being tighter. The VTR aesthetic, although not specified in the data, usually added a sportier touch with specific exterior and interior details.

Technology and features

In the technological section, the Citroën C3 1.6i 16v SensoDrive VTR incorporated elements that, for its time, were quite advanced. The 1.6-liter, 16-valve engine, with indirect injection, offered good efficiency and adequate performance. The SensoDrive transmission, a robotized automatic gearbox, was one of Citroën's bets for comfort, allowing the driver to choose between a fully automatic mode or a sequential one. The brakes, with 266 mm ventilated discs at the front and 247 mm discs at the rear, guaranteed effective braking. Electric power steering contributed to a more relaxed driving experience. Although advanced infotainment systems are not detailed, it is expected that it would have the basic elements of the time, such as a CD radio and air conditioning.

Competition

In the 2002 market, the Citroën C3 1.6i 16v SensoDrive VTR faced tough competition in the utility vehicle segment. Its main rivals included models such as the Renault Clio, Peugeot 206, Ford Fiesta, Opel Corsa, and Volkswagen Polo. Each of them offered their own virtues, whether in design, performance, or equipment. The C3 differentiated itself by its focus on comfort, its original design, and the option of the SensoDrive gearbox, which made it attractive to those looking for a more relaxed driving experience in urban traffic.

Conclusion

The 2002 Citroën C3 1.6i 16v SensoDrive VTR was a car with personality, which opted for a different design and a driving experience oriented towards comfort. Its 109 hp engine, combined with the SensoDrive gearbox, offered adequate performance for everyday use, albeit without great sporting pretensions. Its habitability and trunk made it practical, and its consumption was reasonable. It was an interesting option for those looking for a utility vehicle with a distinctive touch and relaxed driving, standing out for its originality in a very competitive segment. A car that, despite the years, still evokes a feeling of friendliness and functionality.