26 Jul 04
The XTR is powered by either a 90bhp 1.4-litre 16-valve petrol or 92bhp diesel engine of the same size. The oil-burner develops more torque, naturally, with 147lb ft at 1750rpm; the petrol manages just 98lb ft at 3250rpm. Citroen's Sensodrive flappy-paddle gearbox is fitted to the petrol, so you can change gear 'like a rally driver', apparently. We're not fans of this 'box, however, because its response can be annoyingly sluggish, and some reports of electrical gremlins within the C3's multiplex wiring give cause for concern over long-term reliability.
Thankfully, the diesel model we tested had a five-speed manual 'box fitted. The ratios are well spaced, leaving you in the middle of the torque band after normal gearchanges, and the movement is precise. Engine noise is minimal, although you still hear that tell-tale clatter at low speeds.
As it's just a C3 under those hard-core bumpers the XTR has quite pronounced body roll when cornering, and the suspension, though soft, does little to soak up ruts and bumps in the road. The variable power steering makes light work of parking manoeuvres, but a bit more feedback of the available levels of grip at the front wheels wouldn't go amiss. To help you drive around trouble, ABS with brakeforce distribution and braking assistance comes as standard. Electric front windows and mirrors also feature alongside a CD player, four airbags and remote central locking.
Those roof bars can be used to transport items that weigh up to 60kg - such as mountain bikes or snowboards. The centre sections unlock from their normal position and can be mounted transversely across the roof, transforming the bars into a rack without having to buy any extra accessories.
Citroen is well known for its cashback offers, nought-percent finance and free insurance deals, so while the list prices are £11,845 for the petrol and £12,645 for the diesel, don't expect to pay full price. The XTR is less expensive than its rival the VW Polo Dune, but dearer than Rover's Streetwise. The Citroen claws back an advantage by offering more kit for less cash. However, the C3 isn't as well screwed-together as its challengers, with mismatched panel gaps inside and out and a flimsy feel to some of the interior fittings.
