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Citroen C3 vs MG ZS – Which one offers the better deal?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Citroen C3 or MG ZS?

C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

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 @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation

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 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

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 @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation

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 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

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 @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation

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.

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

C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Citroen C3 has a evident advantage in terms of price – it starts at 13700 £, while the MG ZS costs 18000 £. That’s a price difference of around 4286 £.

Both cars consume an average of 5 L per 100 km – no difference here.

ZS @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the MG ZS has a convincingly edge – offering 197 HP compared to 113 HP. That’s roughly 84 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the MG ZS is a bit quicker – completing the sprint in 8.70 s, while the Citroen C3 takes 9.90 s. That’s about 1.20 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Citroen C3 performs minimal better – reaching 183 km/h, while the MG ZS tops out at 179 km/h. The difference is around 4 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Citroen C3 pulls noticeable stronger with 205 Nm compared to 148 Nm. That’s about 57 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Citroen C3 is minimal lighter – 1226 kg compared to 1330 kg. The difference is around 104 kg.

In terms of boot space, the MG ZS offers distinct more room – 443 L compared to 310 L. That’s a difference of about 133 L.

In maximum load capacity, the MG ZS performs to a small extent better – up to 1457 L, which is about 237 L more than the Citroen C3.

When it comes to payload, MG ZS hardly perceptible takes the win – 470 kg compared to 423 kg. That’s a difference of about 47 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the MG ZS shows itself to be leaves the rival little chance and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £18,000
ZS @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation

MG ZS

  • Engine Type : Full Hybrid, Petrol
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 197 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5 - 6.5 L
details

Citroen C3

The Citroën C3 is a cheeky little city car that turns heads with its bold, quirky styling and a surprisingly comfy, well-thought-out interior. It’s an ideal companion for urban life — easy to park, friendly to drive and built to make everyday trips feel a bit more fun without breaking the bank.

details
CITROEN_C3_25 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
CITROEN_C3_26 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
CITROEN_C3_44 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
12D30_01 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

MG ZS

5 (1)
rate

The MG ZS arrives as a cheeky and practical choice for shoppers who want SUV style and family-friendly space without blowing the budget. It may not pretend to be premium, but with sensible equipment, easy-to-live-with driving manners and surprising value, it makes a persuasive case for anyone after sensible transport with a bit of personality.

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MG-ZS-EV-dynamic @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-07 @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-21 @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-luxury_interior @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-16 @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation

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Costs and Consumption
Price
13700 - 23800 £
Price
18000 - 24000 £
Consumption L/100km
5 - 5.6 L
Consumption L/100km
5 - 6.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
16.6 - 17.2 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
206 - 324 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 126 g/km
co2
113 - 145 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
44 L
Fuel tank capacity
41 - 55 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
2 - 5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1226 - 1518 kg
Curb weight
1330 - 1420 kg
Trunk capacity
310 L
Trunk capacity
443 L
Length
4015 mm
Length
4430 mm
Width
1755 mm
Width
1818 mm
Height
1567 mm
Height
1635 mm
Max trunk capacity
1220 L
Max trunk capacity
1457 L
Payload
227 - 423 kg
Payload
375 - 470 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Petrol
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Manual 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
125 - 183 km/h
Max Speed
168 - 179 km/h
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
1199 cm3
Engine capacity
1495 - 1498 cm3

General
Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, E
Brand
Citroen
Brand
MG

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What drive types are available for the Citroen C3?

The Citroen C3 is offered with Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.