The new Stellantis Group’s model market thrust in 2021 resulted in the launch of the Citroen C3 Shine. This is their fifth new model entering the market in 2021.1
What is Stellantis?1
Stellantis is a motoring group that is part of the world’s top four, holding the top position in Europe. In the first quarter of 2021, Stellantis sold over 1.5 million vehicles. It’s great that the parent company completely owns Stellantis South Africa.
The media launch of the C3 Shine1
Stellantis arranged for a huge national media launch for the C3 Shine model, which seemed excessive. But, we must not forget that the C3 came back into the South African market at the beginning of 2020 after withdrawing earlier on.
How did the powertrain of the C3 change?1
The C3’s revisions were first evident on the less-powered C3 Feel model, which arrived in South Africa in March 2021. The latter model has a 3-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine generating 60kW of power and mated to a manual gearbox. Citroen improved the power of the Shine 1,281 kW model, by providing a turbocharged 3-cylinder motor married to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
How did the MY2021 C3’s looks change?1
The car’s front end has a new grille, with headlights merging into the grille design. The grille has a new Citroen Chevron logo, with new lights fitted into the nose area. Fog lights have also changed to have a silver-like look, which the Feel model doesn’t have. Airbump strips occur on the car’s flanks, with one of the bumps having a silver-like look. The C-Pillar shows a small silver-like stripe. The MY2021 Shine has 16-inch alloy wheels displaying a changed spoke pattern.
The inside of the C3 Shine model1
The most significant change to the C3 Shine is the new Comfort seats, so-called because of a thicker outer-layer foam. Much to Citroen’s joy is how these seats have improved the travelling quality of the car.
A test driver experienced a challenge1
The driver noticed on a test drive some feedback occurring along the steering wheel via the front wheels, causing the steering wheel to shudder at times. But, otherwise, the C3 handled speed bumps well, even at higher than desirable speeds. Driving on great roads was most comfortable, accompanied by accurate steering. The drive is also most stable at high speeds, something of a surprise for a car with a short wheelbase.
How could the C3 be improved?1
Because of the short wheelbase, the car needs more rear passenger leg- and headroom. But boot space at a claimed 300 litres is impressive for a B-segment hatchback.
Disclaimer
This article can only provide information because car insurance is a complex matter. You should first seek a certified financial advisor before buying a car insurance product.
If you are going to be first in line to buy the new C3 Shine, remember to obtain comprehensive car insurance if a bank is going to finance it. This is according to South African law. Prime South Africa can assist you by offering you their affordable comprehensive car insurance with fixed premiums* and reduce to zero excess*. Get in touch with Prime without delay for more information. T and Cs apply.
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