With UK diesel sales on the up, the introduction of the Company's 1.6HDi 16V common rail diesel engine offers an additional dimension to the C3 range. Providing 110hp and a maximum 181lb.ft of torque, while returning an equally impressive 63mpg on the combined cycle, this ultra-clean new engine is also fitted with a particulate filter - a first for a Citroën supermini. With the popularity of the C3 meaning that there are already more than a million on the continent's roads, Citroën has deliberately chosen not to make major changes to its distinctive curvy shape. On the outside there is a revised and more classy front end, which includes a new grille and bumper, attractive new light clusters that brighten up the rear, as well as smart new alloys and wheel trims on certain models. Inside, the changes are instantly apparent, with the improved quality of the restyled dashboard helping it both look and feel more attractive and sturdy. The door panels have been re-sculpted to reflect the updated interior design, whilst the central dash section, air vents and gear lever all get smart, light metallic grey embellishers. The driver information display now incorporates an easier-to-read, modern LCD screen. On the road the new C3 line-up incorporates plenty of under-the-skin improvements, designed to provide a more positive and rewarding driving experience - all models benefit from modifications to the suspension and steering. On top of this, numerous additional structural reinforcements make the C3 even safer in the event of an impact. The new models are competitively priced with a cashback-inclusive price of £11,795 for the 1.6HDi 16V VTR, whilst the 1.6i 16V SX Auto is expected to cost just a few pounds more, spec for spec, than the 1.4i version which it will replace when it goes on sale at the end of the year. The whole of the C3 range, which is now fully Euro IV compliant, continues to offer superb value, with the 1.1i L available for less than £7,000. Managing director of Citroën UK Ltd, Xavier Duchemin, said: "The enduring appeal of the Citroën C3 has been given a big lift with these enhancements to the line-up. It is also further evidence of our commitment to diesel technology and the consequent lower costs that this can bring for customers." More power to the people Diesel popularity is booming in the UK and Western Europe, where today it represents 40% of all Citroën supermini sales. And it's no surprise that Citroën diesels are proving so popular considering that the Company has pioneered many of the modern technologies that have so improved the performance and environmental credentials of diesel engines. The introduction of the Company's 1.6HDi 16V engine in the C3 VTR means that the range now has a new flagship engine, offering a significant gain in power and performance over the existing C3 diesel models. This increased power (110hp at 4,000rpm) and torque (a maximum 181 lb.ft at just 1,750rpm) translates into a hugely relaxed and refined driving experience. On its way up to a maximum speed of 118mph, the new C3 1.6HDi 16V VTR accelerates from rest to 62mph in under 10 seconds. To facilitate effortless overtaking, the model also features an ‘overboost' function that can deliver an additional 15 lb.ft of torque under hard acceleration. When it comes to keeping costs down, the 1.6HDi 16V powerplant is remarkably efficient, and can stretch a gallon of fuel for almost 63 miles on the combined cycle or over 74 miles in motorway driving, whilst producing CO2 emissions of just 120 g/km. As a further illustration of Citroën's commitment to reducing harmful emissions, the range-topping 1.6HDi 16V VTR becomes the Company's first supermini to be fitted with a diesel particulate filter system. This traps and burns previously unburned particles, thus reducing particulate emissions to a barely measurable level. A more refined driving experience To increase driving pleasure, without compromising safety, the new C3 range benefits from various enhancements, including upgraded suspensions, strengthened bodyshells, retuned variable power steering and modified braking systems. All sporty-looking VTR models feature new, firmer suspension settings, helping ensure stable road behaviour and precise steering control. The front suspension has been stiffened, as have both anti-roll bars, there are stiffer wishbone stays, whilst the thickness of the rear cross-member has been increased. At the front and back, damping control of the suspension has also been adapted to improve handling. The suspension on all other C3 models has also been upgraded, with more flexible front and rear joints, as well as modified springing and damping parameters, all designed to deliver a more comfortable ride. Even the variable-assistance electric power steering system has been retuned, with the new programming parameters improving precision, especially at medium and fast speeds. To complement the increase in power, the new 1.6HDi 16V VTR models are equipped with a highly efficient braking system that features discs all round – ventilated at the front – as well as ESP as standard. A more up-to-date and robust look Part of the appeal of the C3 has always been its cute, curvy features, and to this end Citroën has deliberately chosen not to dabble with a successful formula – on the outside the changes are subtle yet still combine to give the model a fresher look. A new, more imposing and robust front bumper, which varies in shape depending on model, tops the list of changes at the front end. There is a larger, lower air intake, and an air intake slit below the new radiator grille. The different look is completed by relocating the registration plate below the bumper on all but XTR models. The new C3 range features newly designed rear lights with a crystal coloured central section, while certain versions are fitted with new 15-inch wheel trims. In the case of VTR models, the smart new look includes new 16-inch alloy wheels as well as black painted door mirror housings and radiator grille. All models in the revised Citroën C3 range benefit from a redesigned and upgraded interior that communicates strength, refinement and confidence - the high quality construction helping create a cosseting environment for all occupants. The smart new dashboard has a much more robust and high quality feel to it, with a dark grey, finer grain finish and smart, light metallic grey embellishers around the central section of the fascia, the air vents and the gear lever. The redesigned central area is also home to the upgraded stereo radio/CD system, now standard on all models, and air conditioning controls. Up front the driver is now faced by a clearer driver information system. The larger digital display is easier to read, whilst the stylish rev counter arcs over the digital read-out. On sportier petrol models an LED lights up at maximum revs. The central console in the middle of the dashboard has been updated too. It houses a central multifunction screen that announces the date, time, external temperature, stereo and trip computer details, fuel consumption, distance travelled and various other menu functions. Both front and rear door panels have been completely redesigned, with cleaner lines, well-positioned, sculpted armrests, large door pockets and material trim that matches the seats, all combining to project a more stylish look and well-built feel. More protection for all occupants The C3 is already one of the very safest superminis in its class, having been awarded a four star safety rating when previously crash tested by EuroNCAP. Now, with new structural reinforcements that stiffen the body, it is even better protected, especially in the event of a side impact. The improvements include a new centre pillar and floor cross-members as well as side-member reinforcements and extra reinforcement bars in the front doors – both in the middle and upper sections. Regardless of the specification chosen, all models feature ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Emergency Braking Assistance, twin airbags, five 3-point seatbelts and automatic operation of the hazard warning lights in the event of heavy deceleration. Exclusive models are now equipped with a speed limiter while the new 1.6HDi 16V VTR also comes with ESP as standard. The C3 is also extremely secure from thieves. In the British Insurance Car Security Awards, the C3 Exclusive has been named most secure car in the ‘city/supermini' class for the past two years. With security in mind, the entire range is also fitted with remote central locking and a transponder immobiliser plus neat touches like automatic door and boot locking on the move, and automatic re-locking of the car after 30 seconds if the doors and boot remain unopened. More practical to use – the latest SensoDrive system The new Citroën C3 range also sees the introduction of a new SensoDrive gearbox set-up that not only looks good but, more importantly, helps to make the system even easier to use. The new paddles, which incorporate the fingertip-controlled switch section that is used to change gear, are located behind the steering wheel and consist of twin black and chrome-effect sections. There is also a smart new chrome-topped gearlever and gate, which make selecting all gears simpler. The gear selected is still shown in the display. Almost one in every 10 C3 buyers already opts for a SensoDrive-equipped model, and the new set-up continues to offer the same, easy-to-use benefits - the driver can choose to change gear ‘Rally-style' via the paddle shift gear levers, can use a manual-style gear lever, or can take the easy option of driving the car as a proper automatic. A more impressive range Since its launch in 2002, over 85,000 C3 models have taken to the UK's roads. Now with the addition of two new models – the 1.6HDi 16V VTR and the 1.6i 16V SX Auto – to the updated, 15-strong range, Citroën's 5-door supermini is well set to increase its popularity still further. The upgraded C3 range provides consumers with a flexibility of choice in vehicle and engine specifications to suit everyone's budget and requirements. In addition, all new C3 engines now conform to Euro IV emissions standards, good news for both fleet buyers and environmentally-aware customers alike. Naturally though, Citroën has retained the original ideas that have made owning and living with the C3 such a pleasant experience. As well as being roomy and extremely versatile, most C3 models offer plenty of storage space and high levels of equipment not normally found in a supermini, including air conditioning and features such as automatic door and boot locking and guide-me-home headlamps. The entry level C3 L is attractive to consumers with budget concerns, but who still demand a high level of equipment. Offered with either 1.1i or 1.4HDi engines, the C3 L specification includes a CD player, now fitted as standard, front airbags, ABS with EBA and EBD, variable power steering and electric front windows to name but a few. The C3 Desire provides a choice of 1.1i, 1.4i or 1.4HDi engines and introduces air conditioning, deadlocking, electric door mirrors, full body coloured bumpers and side rubbing strips to the C3 mix. The C3 SX takes another step up the technology ladder, adding automatic digital air conditioning, automatic rain-sensitive windscreen wipers and automatic illumination of driving lights. Front fog lights, front lateral airbags and electric/heated door mirrors further add to the model's appeal. The appeal of the C3 Exclusive is now increased by the introduction of a speed limiter and automatic folding door mirrors as standard, on top of a specification that already includes a Child Pack (with aircraft style tables on the back of the front seats and a second mirror to keep an eye on children in the rear seats), alloy wheels and the Moduboard boot storage system. The model is available with either 1.6i 16V SensoDrive or 92hp 1.6HDi 16V engines. The sportier feel of the C3 VTR has been strengthened and the model now comes with new 16 inch ‘Cheetah' alloys, matching black front grille and door mirrors, as well as ESP. The two impressive engines include the new 110hp 1.6HDi 16V as well as a 1.6i 16V petrol unit. C3 XTR versions benefit from 15 inch alloys, an electric full size sunroof, a Child Pack and an exterior body styling kit in keeping with its ‘leisure oriented' outlook. Available with a choice of 1.4i 16V SensoDrive or 92hp 1.6HDi 16V engines, recommended retail prices for the C3 XTR start at £12,045. Moving into another gear, the C3 Stop & Start 1.4i 16V SensoDrive model brings real benefits in terms of lower fuel consumption, lower emissions and reduced urban noise thanks to its innovative technology that stops the engine when the vehicle is at standstill, before starting it up again as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal.