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Citroen C3 vs MG ZS comparison

Compare performance (113 HP vs 197 HP), boot space and price (13,700 £ vs 18,000 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Citroen C3 or MG ZS?

Citroen C3 vs MG ZS: Key differences

Citroen C3

4.9 (2 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly cheaper
  • very slightly more efficient
  • marginally lighter
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MG ZS

4.4 (4 Reviews)
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  • significantly more power
  • slightly quicker 0–100 km/h
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

C3

Battle of the SUVs: Citroen C3 vs. MG ZS

In the rapidly evolving automotive landscape, drivers often find themselves caught between making decisions across a growing array of impressive SUV models. Two contenders that stand out in this category are the Citroen C3 and the MG ZS. Both vehicles offer a unique blend of style, performance, and technological advancements. In this in-depth comparison, we explore their key specifications, performance metrics, and innovative features to help you decide which SUV might be the better fit for your needs.

ZS

Design and Dimensions

The Citroen C3 and MG ZS embody modern SUV standards in design aesthetics, yet they have their own distinctive characters. The Citroen C3, at 4015 mm in length, 1755 mm in width, and 1567 mm in height, is slightly more compact compared to the MG ZS's 4323 mm length, 1809 mm width, and 1649 mm in height. This makes the MG ZS slightly more spacious on the inside and might appeal to those prioritizing interior roominess and expanded trunk capacity, which measures at 448 liters compared to C3's 310 liters.

C3

Performance and Efficiency

The Citroen C3 offers a choice between petrol, mild hybrid (MHEV), and electric engines with maximum power outputs ranging from 101-113 HP and torque figures peaking at 205 Nm. With a fuel consumption rate of about 5.5 to 5.6 L/100km for its petrol versions and a respectable electric range of up to 326 km, it offers versatility and economy for city driving.

Alternatively, the MG ZS offers more powerful configurations, particularly noteworthy in its electric and hybrid models. With a hefty power figure reaching up to 197 HP and a torque output of 280 Nm, the ZS is well suited for those looking for an energetic driving experience. The electric version boasts an impressive range of 440 km, exceeding the C3 by a significant margin, making it a strong contender for longer trips without frequent charging.

ZS

Innovations and Technology

Both the Citroen C3 and MG ZS are equipped with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance driving experience and safety. The C3 comes with a manual and automatic transmission, offering flexibility depending on personal driving preferences. It also includes innovative features such as a dual-clutch automatic system, among others, that optimize driving comfort.

The MG ZS emphasizes its technological prowess through its larger battery capacity, particularly in its recent model years, ensuring that drivers experience minimal range anxiety. Its full hybrid solutions, coupled with features like an advanced automatic gearbox, point to MG's focus on integrating performance with environmental consciousness.

C3

Environmental Footprint

In the domain of CO2 emissions, both models strive for efficiency but achieve different results. The electric variant of the Citroen C3 proudly reports zero emissions, placing its environmental impact within Class A. The MG ZS, too, excels in this domain with an electric option scoring zero emissions and its hybrids representing a significant reduction in fuel consumption and emissions, ranging from 113-115 g/km CO2, as classified between Classes A and C.

ZS

Conclusion

The choice between the Citroen C3 and MG ZS will largely depend on individual priorities, whether it be design and comfort or power and range. The Citroen C3 appeals to those seeking a compact, efficient urban vehicle with a variety of powertrains tailored for different driving styles. Meanwhile, the MG ZS stands out with its generous electric range, formidable power, and spaciousness.

Ultimately, both vehicles bring remarkable features to the table, reflecting advancements in automotive technology geared towards convenience, performance, and sustainability. Your decision may rest on what blend of attributes matter most to your driving experience.

Frequently compared as well

MG ZS
Omoda 5
VS
The MG ZS and Omoda 5 are two popular compact SUVs that target value-conscious buyers with generous equipment and modern styling. This comparison cuts through the marketing to show how they differ in interior space, build quality, driving dynamics and running costs so you can pick the one that fits …
Citroen C3
Citroen C3 Aircross
VS
Deciding between the Citroën C3 and the Citroën C3 Aircross is basically a choice between a compact, city-focused hatch and a taller, more practical crossover. The C3 prioritises nimble handling, simplicity and economy for urban driving, while the C3 Aircross adds higher ride height, extra interior …

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

C3

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Citroen C3 is clearly cheaper – starting at 13,700 £ , while the MG ZS costs 18,000 £ . That’s a price difference of around 4,286 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Citroen C3 uses 5 L/100km and is very slightly more efficient than the MG ZS with 5.1 L/100km. The difference is about 0.1 L/100km.

ZS

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the MG ZS offers significantly more power – delivering 197 HP compared to 113 HP. That’s roughly 84 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the MG ZS is slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 8.7 s, while the Citroen C3 takes 9.9 s. That’s about 1.2 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Citroen C3 delivers clearly more torque with 205 Nm compared to 148 Nm. That’s about 57 Nm more.

C3

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Citroen C3 is marginally lighter – 1,226 kg compared to 1,330 kg. The difference is around 104 kg.

When it comes to payload, the MG ZS carries only slightly more – 470 kg compared to 423 kg. That’s a difference of about 47 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Citroen C3 holds a slight edge in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £13,700
C3

Citroen C3

  • Engine Type : Electric, Petrol, Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 101 - 113 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5 - 5.6 L/100km
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 16.7 - 17.2 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 212 - 325 km
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Citroen C3
MG ZS

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Citroen C3

The Citroën C3 is a stylish and practical small hatchback that puts comfort and a calm urban driving experience at the top of its list. With its distinctive looks and thoughtful interior touches, it suits buyers who want personality and everyday usability without drama.

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Reviews Citroen C3

4.9 (2 Reviews)
rate

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

MG ZS

The MG ZS is a compact crossover that delivers strong value with a roomy cabin and straightforward tech, making it a sensible choice for budget-minded buyers. It’s easy to live with, offering comfortable rides and a practical layout that suits daily commutes and family errands.

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Reviews MG ZS

4.4 (4 Reviews)
rate
Ahmed
30 Sept 2025, 14:05:11

With all the features it offers at that price, the MG has no competition. A BMW X1 of similar dimensions with a few extra upgrades costs more than twice as much, and considering that 40% of MG’s spare parts come from Germany (Bosch, Continental, etc.), I’d go for the MG ZS Hybrid without a second thought.

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MG ZS
Nissan Qashqai
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MG MG3
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Citroen C3
Opel Corsa
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The Citroën C3 charms with its quirky French flair, plush seats and a ride tuned more for comfort than cornering, while the Opel Corsa plays the sensible all-rounder with sharper handling, a tidier cabin and a broader engine lineup. If you want personality and city-friendly cushioning, pick the C3; …
Citroen C3
Citroen C4
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Renault Clio
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Citroen C3
MG ZS

Costs and Consumption
Price
13,700 - 24,600 £
Price
18,000 - 24,000 £
Consumption L/100km
5 - 5.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
16.7 - 17.2 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
212 - 325 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 126 g/km
co2
115 - 145 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
2 - 5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,226 - 1,518 kg
Curb weight
1,330 - 1,420 kg
Trunk capacity
310 L
Trunk capacity
-
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,755 mm
Width
1,818 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
227 - 423 kg
Payload
375 - 470 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
101 - 113 HP
Power HP
116 - 197 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.9 - 12 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.7 - 12.5 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
120 - 205 Nm
Torque
148 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
74 - 83 kW
Power kW
85 - 145 kW
Engine capacity
1,199 cm3
Engine capacity
1,495 - 1,498 cm3

General
Model Year
2,024 - 2,026
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
Brand
Citroen
Brand
MG
What drivetrain options does the Citroen C3 have?

The Citroen C3 is available as Front-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.