Citroën eC3 Review: The Funky EV That’s Ready to Shake Up the City

So, you’re thinking about going electric but don’t want something that looks like a science experiment or costs more than your yearly salary? Well, the Citroën eC3 might just be the budget-friendly EV you’ve been waiting for. It’s quirky, cute, and doesn’t try to be something it’s not—and in a sea of serious-looking EVs, that’s actually kind of refreshing.

In this in-depth review, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about the Citroën eC3, from its design and performance to practicality, tech, and how it stacks up against competitors. Ready to plug in? Let’s roll.

What Is the Citroën eC3 All About?

The eC3 is Citroën’s all-electric version of their popular C3 hatchback. But don’t let the “budget EV” label fool you—it’s not a compromise machine. Instead, it’s a smart, stylish urban car that’s been reimagined for the electric age without losing its French charm.

It’s aimed squarely at city drivers, first-time EV buyers, and folks who want to cut fuel costs without jumping into premium price territory. Think of it as the electric car for the everyday person—a no-fuss, low-maintenance, plug-and-go solution.

So, what’s the deal with this zippy little ride? Let’s get into the juicy details.

Design & Styling: Quirky, Bold, and Unapologetically French

The first thing you’ll notice about the eC3 is that it doesn’t look like your typical EV—and that’s a good thing.

While most electric cars go for that “smooth jellybean” look, the eC3 stands tall with SUV-inspired cues. It’s got bold plastic cladding, high ground clearance, and Citroën’s signature dual-tone paint schemes. You might even call it the hipster of hatchbacks—cool without trying too hard.

Here’s what stands out:

• Front grille? Nope, it’s closed off—because EVs don’t need one, remember?

• Split headlamp setup with funky LED DRLs gives it personality.

• Air bumps on the side? Functional and stylish, reducing scratches in tight city parking spots.

• Ground clearance of 170mm, which is rare for a compact electric car—making it perfect for Indian roads or anywhere potholes rule.

In short, the eC3 is like that eccentric friend who always shows up to a party dressed a bit differently—and still manages to steal the spotlight.

Battery, Range & Performance: Built for the City Life

Now, let’s talk power. The Citroën eC3 isn’t trying to break speed records or take on Tesla. Instead, it’s about efficient, relaxed driving—especially in urban environments.

Here are the core specs:

• Battery Capacity: 29.2 kWh lithium-ion

• Claimed Range: Up to 320 km (ARAI-certified)

• Real-world Range: Around 200–230 km depending on usage

• Motor Output: 57 PS and 143 Nm of torque

• Top Speed: 107 km/h

So, what does that feel like on the road?

Surprisingly peppy! The instant torque delivery makes city driving fun—you’ll zip through traffic with ease, and overtaking scooters or tuk-tuks feels effortless. Sure, it’s not designed for long highway stints, but it holds its own up to 90–100 km/h comfortably.

Charging is a breeze too:

• DC fast charging (up to 80% in 57 minutes)

• AC home charging (100% in about 10.5 hours on a standard charger)

So, yes, it’s not lightning-fast—but it fits the urban lifestyle like a glove.

Citroën eC3 vs Rivals: How Does It Compare?

Let’s see how the eC3 stacks up against two of its biggest rivals: Tata Tiago EV and MG Comet EV. Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison:

From the table, it’s clear that the eC3 leads in range and space, while the Tiago EV wins on price and power. The MG Comet is the most compact, ideal for short daily commutes and micro-parking.

Interior & Practicality: Simplicity with a Splash of Style

Step inside the eC3 and you’re welcomed by a clean, clutter-free cabin. It’s not ultra-premium, but it does feel youthful and functional. Citroën has focused on comfort and clever design rather than throwing in a million touch panels.

Here’s what stands out:

• 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

• Digital instrument cluster that gives you all essential info in a compact format.

• Two-tone dashboard options that add a funky flair.

• Spacious rear seats with ample legroom for a compact EV.

And yes, there are physical knobs for climate control—because not everything needs to be on a touchscreen!

If you’re planning to use the eC3 as a family car or weekend shopper, the 315-litre boot and multiple storage compartments will keep you organized and clutter-free.

Safety & Tech Features: Gets the Job Done

Alright, let’s be honest—this isn’t a Volvo-level safety pod. But the eC3 covers the basics well and offers peace of mind where it matters.

Safety features include:

• Dual front airbags

• ABS with EBD

• Rear parking sensors

• Seat belt reminders

• Speed alerts

On the tech side, the MyCitroën Connect app offers remote functions like location tracking, charging status, and service alerts. It’s not overloaded with features, but it delivers the essentials most users want in an EV.

Conclusion: Is the Citroën eC3 Worth It?

Let’s wrap it up. If you’re looking for:

• A city-focused EV with good range,

• A car that’s easy on the eyes and wallet,

• Decent performance for everyday use,

• And a unique personality that doesn’t blend in with the crowd…

Then the Citroën eC3 is definitely worth considering. It’s not trying to be the most luxurious or the fastest, but it nails its mission: making electric mobility accessible, practical, and even a little fun.

Sure, you might miss things like cruise control, six airbags, or a sunroof. But for the price, you’re getting a smart, spacious, and stylish EV that ticks most of the right boxes.

So, is the eC3 the electric car for you? If your daily grind involves city streets, short trips, and tight parking spaces—this might be your perfect match.