I DON'T think anyone can deny Citroen is onto a winner with the DS3.
Effectively a range within a range, the DS3 series runs to seven models spanning the price range between £11,800 and £16,000 with three trim levels but just one three-door bodystyle.
Essentially there is a choice from three petrol engines, 95bhp 1.4 and 120 or 150bhp 1.6, or three 1.6 diesels producing 90, 110 and 150bhp. Automatic transmission is available only on the 120 1.6 petrol version.
The range topping diesel is probably the most desirable with its blend of performance and economy and encapsulated in a striking body which never failed to turn heads and bring forth favourable comments.
Developed from the more mundane Citroen C3, the DS3 is designed to appeal to buyers who might be considering the Mini or even an Audi A1, but want something more affordable. It pleases on many fronts.
The powertrain has proven credentials and delivers abundant power very smoothly and strongly from low revs, through the gears when nipping around something and provides complete composure when cruising the main roads. Its lack of noise does, however, throw into relief the road noise which comes up from the tyres.
For all this noise the DS3 rides very smoothly over some bad roads and its handling is sufficiently taut to make it an enjoyable drive along twisting roads where the sharp steering, very powerful brakes and responsive engine come to the fore.
For a Citroen the minor controls are fairly conventional, sensibly placed and work well, backed up by big clear instruments and warning lights.
The oddments room is reasonable, the boot holds a minimum 285 litres rising to 980 litres with the rear three seats folded down, and it’s easy to load while passengers need to be supple to slip into the back. In the front seats, access is very good, the seats adjust well and all snugly locate occupants.
Vision is good to front and sides, slightly restricted over the shoulder but the wipers and lights do good jobs in bad conditions.
There is a very good standard of equipment for the price, with cruise control, sophisticated entertainment system, climate control and desirable alloys and powered front windows in the package. You have to pay more for leather upholstery, parking sensors and metallic paint but that’s about it. Unfortunately, there is no sunroof.
The room is good for two infront but you have to be medium height or less to sit comfortably behind once you have climbed into the back. DS3 comes with high safety credentials, and you can also pick from an interesting colour chart to make your model stand out.
The Citroen DS3 110 HDI covers ground easily and quickly but also with exceptional economy and this is one of its main attributes, demanding little effort from a driver to reward with dynamic responses and miserly economy.
If the road noise bothers you, turn up the excellent sound system and enjoy the experience.
FAST FACTS
Citroen DS3 1.6 HDI 110 DSport
Price: £16,000
Mechanical: 110bhp, 1,560cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 118mph
0-62mph: 9.8 seconds
Combined mpg: 62
Insurance group: 18
CO2 emissions: 118g/km
BIK rating: 13%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles