Citroën C3: what if a VTS version was born?

The latest generation of the Citroën C3 has marked a significant shift in philosophy, focusing on essentials, comfort, and affordability, particularly with its all-electric ë-C3 version. Recently, the range was expanded with a highly anticipated powertrain: the 110-horsepower Hybrid. This version, which we had the pleasure of testing, proved to be a particularly successful compromise, offering smooth driving and more than enough performance for daily use. However, during our review, one characteristic stood out: the car's remarkable lightness. This low curb weight, combined with a well-balanced chassis, immediately sparked our imagination. What if Citroën leveraged this excellent base to revive a name that still resonates emotionally with enthusiasts worldwide? What if the brand dared to create a new C3 VTS?

A 145 hp hybrid heart for a modern-day C3 VTS?

The idea may seem bold, but it is far from unrealistic. Within the Stellantis group's extensive parts catalog, a powertrain already exists that seems tailor-made for such a project. It is a more powerful evolution of the 1.2-liter hybrid engine, this time developing 145 horsepower. This engine is already available in sibling models like the Peugeot 208, which would make its integration under the C3's hood technically straightforward and economically viable. By pairing this engine with the new C3's low weight, the result would be a particularly compelling power-to-weight ratio. The goal wouldn't be a race for raw power, but rather to offer a lively, agile, and fun-to-drive car, reviving the spirit of the classic European "hot hatches."

This proposition is especially relevant given the brand's current activities, as it prepares for a major comeback in motorsport with its entry into Formula E next year. This return to the highest level of electric racing is a strong statement. It signals that dynamism and electrified performance are once again a core part of Citroën's DNA. A 145 hp C3 VTS Hybrid would be the perfect flagship for this new ambition, creating a bridge between the brand's sporting heritage and its electrification strategy. It would embody a modern, efficient sportiness perfectly suited to our times, where driving pleasure must go hand-in-hand with responsible fuel consumption.

A style blending VTS heritage with an SUV spirit

For our digital rendering, we envisioned a C3 VTS that embraces its small SUV origins. The objective is not to create a radical, lowered sports car, but to enhance its bold design with dynamic attributes. The car maintains its comfortable ground clearance and raised stance but gains a significant dose of character. The main color, an intense Bright Blue, was chosen deliberately. It is a direct nod to the legendary "Bleu Grand Pavois" of its famous ancestor, the Saxo VTS, creating an immediate visual and emotional connection for those who know the brand's history.

To energize the overall look, accents of "André Red" punctuate the bodywork. This vibrant red appears on the two-tone roof, the mirror caps, and in subtle details on the front bumper inserts. This specific shade, a tribute to the brand's founder, André Citroën, adds the necessary flair to suggest performance. Discreet graphics inspired by the brand's chevron logo are placed on the grille and rear pillar, while more sharply designed alloy wheels and a "C3 VTS" badge on the tailgate complete the transformation. The result is a C3 with a more assertive and sporty look that hints at its capabilities without being ostentatious, remaining true to the Citroën spirit.

The C3: a platform with multiple potentials

Undoubtedly, the C3's new "Smart Car" platform lends itself to many different interpretations. After imagining what a more rugged C3 XTR adventurer version could look like, this VTS concept once again demonstrates the model's versatility. Such a version would be perfectly relevant in the current lineup. It wouldn't compete with pure-bred hot hatches but would instead offer a unique proposition: a small SUV with a dynamic look, offering a boost in performance thanks to a modern 145 hp hybrid powertrain, all while retaining the comfort and practicality that are the C3's core strengths. It would appeal to customers looking for a characterful car that is fun for daily driving without sacrificing versatility. Faced with such a coherent and appealing proposal, we have only one question: Citroën, is the ball in your court?