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@ Peugeot / Stellantis Media
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Citroen C3 vs Peugeot 208 – Which model is better for everyday use?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Citroen C3 or Peugeot 208?

C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

The Battle of the Compacts: Citroën C3 vs. Peugeot 208

In the competitive world of compact cars, two French giants, Citroën and Peugeot, present formidable options: the Citroën C3 and the Peugeot 208. Both vehicles offer unique blends of style, efficiency, and modern technology, but which one stands out in this head-to-head comparison? Let's explore their features, specifications, and innovations to see how these models stack up against each other.

208 @ Peugeot / Stellantis Media

Design and Dimensions

The Citroën C3 distinguishes itself as an SUV-styled compact, offering a more robust stance with a length of 4015 mm, width of 1755 mm, and height of 1567 mm. This design not only provides a higher driving position but also adds to its visual appeal and utility.

Contrastingly, the Peugeot 208 takes on a hatchback design, more streamlined and sporty with a length of 4055 mm, width of 1745 mm, and height of 1430 mm. Its lower and sleeker profile might appeal to those who prioritize a dynamic aesthetic.

C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Performance and Powertrain

When it comes to engines, the Citroën C3 offers a range of options from petrol to electric powertrains. Petrol variants produce between 101 and 113 HP, while the electric version delivers eco-friendly driving with a consumption of 17.4 to 17.1 kWh/100km and a range of up to 326 km.

The Peugeot 208 is equally versatile, with petrol MHEV, pure petrol, and electric variants. It offers power outputs ranging from 101 HP to 156 HP, with fuel consumption as low as 4.7 L/100 km for its petrol hybrid models. Its electric version boasts a larger battery capacity, offering longer drives up to 410 km with less frequent charging.

208 @ Peugeot / Stellantis Media

Driving Dynamics and Transmission

Both vehicles feature a front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration, but they differ slightly in transmission offerings. The Citroën C3 includes manual and automatic options, catering to a variety of driver preferences. It features a dual-clutch automatic and reduction gearbox for seamless power delivery.

The Peugeot 208 mirrors this versatility with both manual and automatic transmissions, including a dual-clutch automatic for smoother shifts. With a maximum speed of up to 200 km/h, its aggressive edge promises an engaging drive. Meanwhile, the Citroën C3 peeks at a top speed of 183 km/h with lively acceleration.

C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Interior and Comfort

Inside, both the Citroën C3 and Peugeot 208 accommodate up to five passengers, providing an equally spacious option for small families or groups. The C3 offers slightly more trunk capacity with 310 liters compared to the 208's 309 liters, proving advantageous for those needing more cargo space.

Comfort and ergonomics are at the forefront of these French models, with both offering intuitive, user-friendly interfaces across infotainment systems, ensuring a connected and seamless driving experience.

208 @ Peugeot / Stellantis Media

Efficiency and Environmental Impact

In terms of environmental impact, the Citroën C3 varies with CO2 emissions from 0 g/km for its electric variant to 126 g/km for its petrol versions. The Peugeot 208's electric models similarly boast 0 g/km emissions, with petrol variants ranging from 105 to 121 g/km, demonstrating an efficient hybrid option at the lower end of the spectrum.

C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Conclusion: Choosing Your French Companion

In the duel between the Citroën C3 and the Peugeot 208, the choice heavily hinges on personal preferences and priorities. The Citroën C3 presents an SUV-like comfort with a mixed palette of eco-friendly to traditional performance options. Meanwhile, the Peugeot 208 offers a dash of sportiness, with an edge in electric range capabilities and swift performance.

Ultimately, both models signify progress and innovation in the compact car segment, each bringing a slice of French automotive excellence to the table. Your choice between these two will depend on whether you lean towards the adventurous compact SUV stance of the C3 or the agile, dynamic hatchback appeal of the 208.

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

208 @ Peugeot / Stellantis Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Citroen C3 has a clearly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 13700 £, while the Peugeot 208 costs 20700 £. That’s a price difference of around 6977 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Peugeot 208 manages with 4.50 L and is therefore somewhat more efficient than the Citroen C3 with 5 L. The difference is about 0.50 L per 100 km.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the Peugeot 208: with 14.10 kWh per 100 km, it’s somewhat more efficient than the Citroen C3 with 16.60 kWh. That’s a difference of about 2.50 kWh.

As for range, the Peugeot 208 performs clearly perceptible better – achieving up to 432 km, about 108 km more than the Citroen C3.

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 Peugeot 208 has a noticeable edge – offering 156 HP compared to 113 HP. That’s roughly 43 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Peugeot 208 is to a small extent quicker – completing the sprint in 8.30 s, while the Citroen C3 takes 9.90 s. That’s about 1.60 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Peugeot 208 performs slight better – reaching 200 km/h, while the Citroen C3 tops out at 183 km/h. The difference is around 17 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Peugeot 208 pulls noticeable stronger with 270 Nm compared to 205 Nm. That’s about 65 Nm difference.

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 curb weight, Peugeot 208 is minimal lighter – 1165 kg compared to 1226 kg. The difference is around 61 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Peugeot 208 offers slightly more room – 352 L compared to 310 L. That’s a difference of about 42 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Citroen C3 performs barely noticeable better – up to 1220 L, which is about 57 L more than the Peugeot 208.

When it comes to payload, Peugeot 208 barely noticeable takes the win – 430 kg compared to 423 kg. That’s a difference of about 7 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Peugeot 208 proves to be is largely superior and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Peugeot 208 is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £20,700
208 @ Peugeot / Stellantis Media

Peugeot 208

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Electric, Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 101 - 156 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.5 - 5.2 L
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 14.1 - 15.4 kWh
  • Electric Range : 362 - 432 km

Citroen C3

The Citroën C3 exudes a quirky charm with its distinctive design and bold colour options, making it stand out in the crowded hatchback market. Its interior is crafted with comfort in mind, offering plush seating and a host of modern technology features to enhance the driving experience. The C3's compact size makes it an ideal choice for urban commuting, effortlessly navigating through city streets while maintaining a sense of style and practicality.

details

Peugeot 208

The Peugeot 208 exudes a distinctive French charm, combining sleek lines with an assertive stance on the road. Inside, it offers a modern and sophisticated cabin, complete with intuitive technology and high-quality finishes to enhance the driving experience. Its agile handling and efficient performance make it a delightful choice for both city commuting and longer journeys.

details
Citroen C3
Peugeot 208
C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
208 @ Peugeot / Stellantis Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
13700 - 23800 £
Price
20700 - 35200 £
Consumption L/100km
5 - 5.6 L
Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 5.2 L
Consumption kWh/100km
16.6 - 17.2 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
14.1 - 15.4 kWh
Electric Range
206 - 324 km
Electric Range
362 - 432 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
46 - 51 kWh
co2
0 - 126 g/km
co2
0 - 117 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
44 L
Fuel tank capacity
44 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
2 - 5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1226 - 1518 kg
Curb weight
1165 - 1530 kg
Trunk capacity
310 L
Trunk capacity
309 - 352 L
Length
4015 mm
Length
4055 mm
Width
1755 mm
Width
1745 mm
Height
1567 mm
Height
1430 mm
Max trunk capacity
1220 L
Max trunk capacity
1118 - 1163 L
Payload
227 - 423 kg
Payload
380 - 430 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol, Electric, Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
101 - 113 HP
Power HP
101 - 156 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.9 - 12 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.3 - 10.9 s
Max Speed
125 - 183 km/h
Max Speed
150 - 200 km/h
Torque
120 - 205 Nm
Torque
205 - 270 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3
Power kW
74 - 83 kW
Power kW
74 - 115 kW
Engine capacity
1199 cm3
Engine capacity
1199 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2023 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A, C
Brand
Citroen
Brand
Peugeot
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.