In the ever-evolving landscape of electric mobility, few vehicles manage to strike the perfect balance between affordability, practicality, and design. Enter the Citroën ë-C3 – a compact electric hatchback that’s not only making EV ownership more accessible but also doing so with the distinctive character and comfort that Citroën is known for.
Released as part of Citroën’s renewed focus on electric vehicles, the ë-C3 brings a fresh, no-nonsense approach to city driving and urban mobility. It’s a significant departure from the more premium-priced EVs flooding the market, aimed squarely at cost-conscious drivers who want to go electric without compromising too much on comfort or usability.
A New Era for the City Hatchback
The Citroën ë-C3 isn’t just another electric car – it marks a pivotal shift in the EV segment. Priced competitively (starting under €25,000 in most European markets), it undercuts many rivals while offering a solid real-world range and a robust feature set. This car is proof that going electric doesn’t have to mean going premium.
With a 44 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, the ë-C3 offers an official WLTP range of up to 320 km (around 200 miles), making it ideal for daily commutes, school runs, and weekend shopping trips. For most urban and suburban drivers, that’s more than enough. And with DC fast charging of up to 100 kW, the battery can be topped up from 20% to 80% in just 26 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime on the go.
Bold, Chunky Design with Citroën DNA
Citroën has always been bold with design, and the ë-C3 proudly continues that tradition. Inspired by SUV styling cues, the ë-C3 boasts a higher-than-average ride height, prominent wheel arches, and a slightly boxy silhouette that gives it a strong road presence. It’s quirky, fun, and unmistakably Citroën.
The front fascia features the new Citroën logo, flanked by modern split-level LED headlights. The rear gets a clean, minimalist treatment with distinctive lighting and smooth surfaces. Overall, the ë-C3 carries a more mature and rugged look than many compact hatchbacks, without losing its charm.
Despite its compact size, the ë-C3 feels well-proportioned and confident – perfect for navigating narrow city streets or squeezing into tight parking spots.
Comfort Above All: The Citroën Way
Where Citroën has always excelled is in ride comfort, and the ë-C3 continues that tradition. Thanks to the brand’s Advanced Comfort Suspension system with progressive hydraulic cushions, the car glides over potholes and uneven roads in a way that many budget EVs simply can’t match. It’s a soft, composed ride – ideal for the unpredictable surfaces of urban environments.
Inside, Citroën has kept things simple but thoughtful. The dashboard is clean and clutter-free, dominated by a new “Head-Up Display” system that projects driving information onto a high-mounted screen. There’s also a compact infotainment display in the center, plus smartphone mirroring via USB or Bluetooth.
The seats, fitted with Citroën’s Advanced Comfort foam, are supportive for longer journeys yet soft enough to handle daily stop-start traffic without fatigue. Space is decent for a small car, with enough room in the back for two adults or three kids, and a surprisingly usable boot (trunk) space of around 310 liters.
Performance: Quiet and Capable
The ë-C3 is powered by a single 83 kW (113 hp) electric motor that drives the front wheels. It won’t win any drag races, but with 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in under 11 seconds, it’s more than capable in urban traffic. Instant electric torque ensures smooth acceleration, and regenerative braking adds a layer of efficiency, especially in stop-start city conditions.
It’s quiet, composed, and easy to drive. Steering is light, and visibility is excellent – exactly what you want from a city-focused hatchback. Driving the ë-C3 is more about calm and control than raw performance, which aligns perfectly with its intended role.
A Shift Toward Affordable EVs
Perhaps the most important aspect of the ë-C3 is what it represents. At a time when many electric cars are priced out of reach for the average consumer, Citroën is pushing back with a product that makes EV ownership more attainable.
It’s part of a larger strategy from Stellantis (Citroën’s parent company) to offer more affordable EVs under various brands. The ë-C3 sits at the front of this new wave, targeting first-time EV buyers, young drivers, and families looking for a second car.
With governments across Europe tightening emissions regulations and cities restricting ICE vehicles, the demand for low-cost electric cars will only grow. The ë-C3 could be a turning point – a “people’s EV” in the same spirit as the 2CV was decades ago.
Final Thoughts
The Citroën ë-C3 might not be the flashiest EV on the market, but it might just be one of the most important. It brings electric mobility within reach for more people, without sacrificing comfort, practicality, or personality. For city drivers and those looking to make the switch to electric without breaking the bank, the ë-C3 is a compelling option.