CITROEN’S second-generation C3 comes to market at a lower price point than its predecessor but still places a significant premium on a brand which is losing market share.

Like the old model, this one is a visual winner and adds a sportier element to its individual styling. More importantly, the airier interior adds space and lots of intelligent details while entirely overcoming the entry feel of its predecessor.

The base model VT is powered by a 1.4-litre petrol engine that produces just 54kW, which is less than some comparable sized cars offered 20 years and more ago.

Diesels, of course, are what PSA (maker of Peugeot and Citroën) does best and the 1.6-litre HDi offered in the up-spec VTR+ and Exclusive variants is a cracker, consuming just 3.7 litres of fuel per 100km on the highway cycle.

Despite dated features such as a four-speed automatic transmission and standard steel wheels even on the Exclusive, the C3 promises greatly improved quality, better dynamics, more space and the impressive panoramic windscreen which sets the Exclusive apart from all rivals.