The new Citroën C3 has certainly had a difficult start, as its development has been difficult, especially in terms of software. Offering a new car, on a new platform, that is significantly cheaper than its predecessor is no easy task, but the new C3 has enough arguments to overcome these difficulties and make a successful launch.
After the first deliveries in September to supply cars ordered under the social leasing scheme, Citroën started delivering the new C3 in October to all European countries where it could reach the brand's dealers and thus be seen by consumers.
A heavy responsibility on its shoulders
The fourth generation C3 thus follows on from a version that has enjoyed uninterrupted success since its launch in 2016, generating excellent commercial performances until the end of its career by signing a breathtaking first half of 2024.
Certainly, following a successful generation is a big responsibility, especially as the brand has chosen to start from scratch for this new generation, with a new concept inspired by SUVs and a price repositioning that has made it 5,000 euros cheaper than the previous generation, with the same engine, finishes and equipment. In addition to its price, the new C3 has a number of other strong points, in particular its spaciousness, its modern and efficient range of engines and its comfort, thanks to the Advanced Comfort seats and suspension, which are unique in this segment.
This has enabled it to record a significant volume of orders since the beginning of the year, thanks in particular to the electric version, which accounts for 50% of orders in France. The imminent arrival of the hybrid version, for which orders are now being taken throughout Europe, should enable the C3 to continue this good start and follow in the footsteps of its predecessor.
Sales up in Europe
Citroën's efforts seem to be paying off as sales of the new Citroën C3 increased by 4% in Europe in November. With 13,097 units sold, the small chevron-emblazoned saloon ranks 13th in sales in Europe and 5th in its segment, a sign that the two generations have been successfully handed over and that the new one seems to be off to a good start with production enabling it to meet the many orders accumulated since the beginning of the year.
Another figure that shows that the previous generation C3 had an excellent first half of the year: after three very difficult months in which sales fell sharply due to production problems, the Citroën C3 ended November 2023 with 149,189 units sold, an increase of 11%! The fact that this increase was possible despite the very difficult last three months shows that the C3 had an excellent first half of the year.
In conclusion, a 4% increase may not seem like much, but in a market down 1.7%, it is an excellent performance. However, the same 4% increase gives a good first indication of the reception reserved for the new C3 by European customers, and this seems to be a good thing, since sales, now entirely driven by the new generation, are up on the previous generation, which was a constant success. These figures therefore augur well for the future of the C3, which will be able to rely on the use of the hybrid version to win new orders and thus fulfil its mission despite its heavy responsibilities.
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