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Citroen C3 vs SEAT Ateca comparison

Compare performance (113 HP vs 150 HP), boot space and price (14,000 £ vs 25,100 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Citroen C3 or SEAT Ateca?

Citroen C3 vs SEAT Ateca: Key differences

Citroen C3

4.9 (2 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly cheaper
  • very slightly lighter
details

SEAT Ateca

4.5 (6 Reviews)
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  • clearly more power
  • marginally more efficient
  • a bit quicker 0–100 km/h
  • noticeably more trunk space
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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

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

C3

Costs and Efficiency:

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

Citroen C3 is clearly cheaper – starting at 14,000 £ , while the SEAT Ateca costs 25,100 £ . That’s a price difference of around 11,143 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the SEAT Ateca uses 4.9 L/100km and is marginally more efficient than the Citroen C3 with 5 L/100km. The difference is about 0.1 L/100km.

Ateca

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 SEAT Ateca offers clearly more power – delivering 150 HP compared to 113 HP. That’s roughly 37 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the SEAT Ateca is a bit quicker – completing the sprint in 9 s, while the Citroen C3 takes 9.9 s. That’s about 0.9 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the SEAT Ateca delivers considerably more torque with 360 Nm compared to 205 Nm. That’s about 155 Nm more.

C3

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Citroen C3 is very slightly lighter – 1,226 kg compared to 1,345 kg. The difference is around 119 kg.

Looking at boot space, the SEAT Ateca offers noticeably more boot space – 510 L compared to 310 L. That’s a difference of about 200 L.

When it comes to payload, the SEAT Ateca carries slightly more – 525 kg compared to 423 kg. That’s a difference of about 102 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The SEAT Ateca comes out modestly ahead 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 £25,100
Ateca

SEAT Ateca

  • Engine Type Petrol, Diesel
  • Transmission Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 116 - 150 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 4.9 - 6.4 L/100km
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Frequently compared as well

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 …
SEAT Ateca
VW T-Roc
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The SEAT Ateca and the VW T‑Roc are two closely related compact crossover SUVs from the Volkswagen Group, each offering a blend of practicality, comfort and engaging driving manners. This comparison will highlight where the Ateca’s straightforward value and roomy practicality differ from the …
Citroen C3
SEAT Ateca

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.

SEAT Ateca

The SEAT Ateca blends sharp, purposeful styling with practical space that turns everyday errands into something a bit more enjoyable. It’s poised and engaging to drive for its segment, offers solid value, and has just enough personality to make you smile on the school run.

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Reviews SEAT Ateca

4.5 (6 Reviews)
rate
editor
1 Jul 2026, 17:23:30

Exactly the right size. Just still suitable for families. The touchscreen is nicely integrated, not just a tablet stuck on — it flows into a console with the Virtual Cockpit and still has real buttons for the most important everyday functions. Perfect mix. My comparisons were the new 2er Active Tourer, the B‑Class and the Kia Sportage. The Ateca won for me overall by a clear margin, but it was a bit overpriced in comparison. And it wasn't my dream car. More a "practical car." Cheap is a thing of the past.

The speedo shows up to 218 km/h, but it really struggles to get beyond about 180. Above 150 km/h it also gets noticeably louder, but still acceptable. For people who like to glide along comfortably it's a very good choice; for those who like to drive fast, rather not. It handles dirt tracks well thanks to its ground clearance, and it also takes corners very well. Already somewhat sporty, agile.

Folding tow hitch, partially autonomous driving, lots of useful driver aids, a good multimedia concept, etc., as well as the very good seating position and controls make it attractive.

My previous 2.0L diesel was noticeably better to drive at higher speeds. But yes, times have changed. Not everything is perfect, but overall it has earned its 5 stars when you factor in the price and compare what you get for your money. 1.5 TSI Xperience DSG +XL + ***

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Stefan
10 Jun 2026, 12:17:28

The Seat Ateca is a very affordable SUV with excellent handling and plenty of space for the whole family. A companion that can do it all and is equally suited to everyday use as to long trips fully loaded. A very good choice for the active family that needs a car that fits most needs.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Nico
20 May 2026, 12:31:33

+ Great, firm seats, large boot for such a compact car, good fuel economy, lots of interior space, uncomplicated controls, very agile and safe handling, good build quality, very good steering, good braking performance, relatively small turning circle
- Very poor voice control and navigation, cockpit display too small with very small fonts and symbols, steering wheel too thin, seats too flat despite electric adjustment, poor engine soundproofing, tank far too small, complicated maintenance (oil change appalling), undersized rear brake, fuel filler on the wrong side, sound almost without bass (Beats)

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Long-distance driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Frequently compared as well

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SEAT Ateca
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As compact SUVs that balance practicality and value, the Hyundai Tucson and SEAT Ateca are popular choices for buyers seeking everyday comfort with sensible running costs. This comparison cuts through the specs to show which model — the Tucson or the Ateca — suits your needs better, whether you …
Citroen C3
Citroen C4
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The Citroën C3 is the cheeky city hatch that charms with low running costs, soft suspension and easy parking, while the Citroën C4 stretches into crossover territory with more space, stronger engines and sharper tech. If you mostly nip around town grab the C3 for its thrift and comfort; if you want …
Citroen C3
Fiat Grande Panda
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Comparing the Citroën C3 and the Fiat Panda shows two different takes on small cars: the C3 emphasises comfort, style and a quieter ride, while the Panda prioritises practicality, space efficiency and rugged simplicity. Choose the C3 for a refined, tech-friendly city runabout; choose the Panda for …
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; …
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Renault Captur
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Choosing between the Citroën C3 and the Renault Captur comes down to whether you want a compact, comfort-focused hatch with quirky styling or a slightly larger, more versatile crossover with a higher driving position. I’ll compare practicality, fuel economy, driving feel and value so you can pick …
Citroen C3
Renault Clio
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City supermini buyers face a tasty dilemma: the Citroën C3 charms with cosy ride comfort, playful looks and practical flair, while the Renault Clio answers with sharper handling, a more premium cabin and smarter tech. Choose the C3 if you prioritise comfort and personality; pick the Clio if you …
Citroen C3
Jeep Avenger
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The Citroën C3 and the Jeep Avenger are two compact, city-focused crossovers that target buyers who want practicality, efficiency and a touch of personality. This quick comparison highlights their differences in ride comfort, interior space, fuel economy and features to help you pick the better fit …
Citroen C3
Peugeot 208
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Forget badge snobbery: the Citroën C3 is the comfy, quirky city car that soaks up potholes and prioritises practicality, while the Peugeot 208 feels sharper to drive with a more premium cabin and livelier engines. Pick the C3 for relaxed, characterful motoring and the 208 if you want style and …
Citroen C3
SEAT Ateca

Costs and Consumption
Price
14,000 - 24,700 £
Price
25,100 - 36,900 £
Consumption L/100km
5 - 5.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 6.4 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
129 - 144 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
1,345 - 1,514 kg
Trunk capacity
310 L
Trunk capacity
510 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,755 mm
Width
1,841 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
227 - 423 kg
Payload
516 - 525 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
101 - 113 HP
Power HP
116 - 150 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.9 - 12 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9 - 11 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
120 - 205 Nm
Torque
200 - 360 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
74 - 83 kW
Power kW
85 - 110 kW
Engine capacity
1,199 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1,968 cm3

General
Model Year
2,024 - 2,026
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, D
Brand
Citroen
Brand
SEAT
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.