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Citroen C3 vs Renault R5 – Which one offers the better deal?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Citroen C3 or Renault R5?

C3 @ media.stellantis.com

The New Contenders: Citroen C3 vs. Renault R5

In the ever-evolving automotive world, the battle for compact car supremacy intensifies with the electrifying face-off between the Citroen C3 and the Renault R5. As these automotive giants innovate and push boundaries, we delve into their technical prowess and explore the groundbreaking features that set them apart. Both models promise a unique, dynamic driving experience, blending style and efficiency.

R5 @ media.renault.at

Design and Body Type

The Citroen C3 characterizes itself as a charming SUV, with a remarkable length of 4015 mm and a height of 1567 mm, lending it a robust and confident stance. Meanwhile, the Renault R5 emerges as a stylish hatchback, featuring a compact 3922 mm in length and a height of 1498 mm. Both cars comfortably seat five passengers, providing ample space for a small family or a group of friends. The trunk capacity also offers competitive storage, with the C3 at 310 liters and the R5 slightly ahead with 326 liters.

C3 @ media.stellantis.com

Engine Performance and Efficiency

The Citroen C3 comes in versatile engine options, including petrol, Electric, and Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV), catering to a broader audience. The petrol variant churns out 101 to 113 HP, whereas the electric version offers up to 326 km of range, with an efficiency of 17.1 kWh/100km. Notably, the petrol variant achieves a fuel consumption of 5.5-5.6 L/100km.

Renault R5 offers an all-electric experience, eliminating CO2 emissions entirely. With power outputs ranging from 95 to 150 HP and a torque of up to 245 Nm, the R5 guarantees a lively drive. Its energy efficiency is laudable, consuming just 14.8 kWh/100km and offering an impressive range of up to 405 km.

R5 @ media.renault.at

Speed and Handling

When it comes to acceleration, the Citroen C3 exhibits respectable performance with a 0-100 km/h time between 9.9 to 11 seconds. The maximum speed reaches up to 183 km/h in its petrol guise. The Renault R5, with its sprightly 0-100 km/h time of 8 to 9 seconds, reaches a top speed of 150 km/h, making it slightly quicker off the line.

C3 @ media.stellantis.com

Transmission and Driving Dynamics

Both cars offer front-wheel-drive configurations. The C3 comes with a range of transmissions, including a manual gearbox, reduction gearbox, and a dual-clutch automatic, providing drivers flexible choices for various driving preferences. The Renault R5 features a single reduction gearbox, emphasizing a seamless and straightforward driving experience.

R5 @ media.renault.at

Innovation and Environmental Impact

In terms of innovation, Citroen's hybrid model holds a strong allure, merging classic fuel dynamics with new-age electric efficiency. However, the Renault R5's full-electric nature stands as a testament to the future of sustainable driving. Both models have laudable efforts toward reducing environmental footprint, with the C3's electric version and the R5 earning an A CO2 efficiency class.

C3 @ media.stellantis.com

Conclusion

The Citroen C3 and Renault R5 exemplify modern automotive engineering's potential, presenting compelling options for those seeking a harmonious blend of style, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology. While the Citroen C3 offers multiple powertrain choices to suit various lifestyles, the Renault R5 represents a cleaner, eco-friendly alternative with its full-electric power. Ultimately, the choice between these two will come down to personal preference and priorities, whether they lean more towards versatility or a greener tomorrow.

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

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Citroen C3 has a convincingly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 13700 £, while the Renault R5 costs 23900 £. That’s a price difference of around 10209 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the Renault R5: with 14.80 kWh per 100 km, it’s somewhat more efficient than the Citroen C3 with 16.60 kWh. That’s a difference of about 1.80 kWh.

As for range, the Renault R5 performs slightly better – achieving up to 405 km, about 81 km more than the Citroen C3.

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 Renault R5 has a clearly edge – offering 540 HP compared to 113 HP. That’s roughly 427 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Renault R5 is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the Citroen C3 takes 9.90 s. That’s about 6.40 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Renault R5 performs noticeable better – reaching 270 km/h, while the Citroen C3 tops out at 183 km/h. The difference is around 87 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Renault R5 pulls decisively stronger with 4800 Nm compared to 205 Nm. That’s about 4595 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, Citroen C3 is to a small extent lighter – 1226 kg compared to 1447 kg. The difference is around 221 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Renault R5 offers minimal more room – 326 L compared to 310 L. That’s a difference of about 16 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Citroen C3 performs minimal better – up to 1220 L, which is about 114 L more than the Renault R5.

When it comes to payload, Citroen C3 slight takes the win – 423 kg compared to 418 kg. That’s a difference of about 5 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Renault R5 proves to be leaves the rival little chance and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Renault R5 is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £23,900
D9BB3E56-4B0D-4E48-A734-11A1714B92A5

Renault R5

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 122 - 540 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 14.8 - 15.2 kWh
  • Electric Range : 307 - 405 km
details

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
CITROEN_C3_25 @ media.stellantis.com
CITROEN_C3_26 @ media.stellantis.com
CITROEN_C3_44 @ media.stellantis.com
12D30_01 @ media.stellantis.com

Renault R5

5 (1)
rate

The Renault R5 is a classic hatchback that captured the imagination of drivers with its distinctive design and compact versatility. Its agile handling and efficient performance made it a popular choice in urban settings and winding country roads alike. With a blend of style and practicality, the Renault R5 remains a beloved icon in automotive history.

details
D9BB3E56-4B0D-4E48-A734-11A1714B92A5 @ media.renault.at
79A3C149-BC71-4BE3-A149-986DD84D251C @ media.renault.at
DDEACB99-545B-4C72-B12C-AB35E7B77365 @ media.renault.at

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Costs and Consumption
Price
13700 - 23800 £
Price
23900 - 137100 £
Consumption L/100km
5 - 5.6 L
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
16.6 - 17.2 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
14.8 - 15.2 kWh
Electric Range
206 - 324 km
Electric Range
307 - 405 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
40 - 52 kWh
co2
0 - 126 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
44 L
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
2 - 5
Seats
2 - 5
Doors
5
Doors
3 - 5
Curb weight
1226 - 1518 kg
Curb weight
1447 - 1524 kg
Trunk capacity
310 L
Trunk capacity
326 L
Length
4015 mm
Length
3922 - 4080 mm
Width
1755 mm
Width
1744 - 2030 mm
Height
1567 mm
Height
1380 - 1498 mm
Max trunk capacity
1220 L
Max trunk capacity
1106 L
Payload
227 - 423 kg
Payload
396 - 418 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Power HP
101 - 113 HP
Power HP
122 - 540 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.9 - 12 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 9 s
Max Speed
125 - 183 km/h
Max Speed
150 - 270 km/h
Torque
120 - 205 Nm
Torque
225 - 4800 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
74 - 83 kW
Power kW
90 - 397 kW
Engine capacity
1199 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2025 - 2027
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Citroen
Brand
Renault

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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.