@ Citroën / Stellantis Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Citroen C3 vs VW T-Cross – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Two cars, one duel: Citroen C3 meets VW T-Cross.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

A Closer Look at the Citroen C3 vs VW T-Cross: The Battle of the Compact SUVs

The compact SUV segment is brimming with intriguing options, and two names that frequently rise to the surface are the Citroen C3 and the VW T-Cross. Both vehicles offer a blend of urban practicality and adventure readiness, yet they each bring distinctive characteristics and innovations to the table. Let's delve into the specifics and discover what sets these two contenders apart in the crowded SUV arena.

T-Cross @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Dimensions

At a glance, both the Citroen C3 and the VW T-Cross exude the modern aesthetic that appeals to urban dwellers and adventurers alike. The Citroen C3, with its length of 4015mm and width of 1755mm, presents a slightly more compact footprint than the VW T-Cross, which measures 4127mm in length and 1784mm in width. This dimensional difference gives the C3 a slight edge in maneuverability, particularly in tight city streets.

Both models offer a five-door configuration, comfortably seating five passengers. The trunk capacity of the VW T-Cross stands out significantly at 455 liters, surpassing the C3's 310 liters, thereby appealing more to those frequently in need of ample cargo space.

C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Power and Performance

Under the hood, the Citroen C3 offers a choice between petrol, electric, and mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) engines, with power outputs ranging from 101 to 113 HP. The C3 also showcases a diverse range of transmission options including a manual gearbox, a dual-clutch automatic, and for electric variants, a reduction gearbox. The C3 hits a top speed between 132 and 183 km/h, depending on the engine choice, and showcases a notable electric range of up to 326 km.

The VW T-Cross sticks to petrol engines, offering a broader power range from 95 to 150 HP. It also features manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions. With maximum speeds reaching up to 200 km/h, the T-Cross demonstrates a dynamic performance edge. Acceleration for the VW T-Cross varies between 8.4 to 11.2 seconds from 0-100 km/h, offering quick getaways compared to the C3's range of 9.9 to 11 seconds.

T-Cross @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Citroen C3 claims consumption figures of 5.5 to 5.6 L/100km, while the electric variant consumes 17.1 to 17.4 kWh/100km with zero CO2 emissions in its electric form. Meanwhile, the VW T-Cross offers consumption rates between 5.6 to 6 L/100km, standing as a respectable contender in its segment.

CO2 emissions are another critical consideration. The C3 achieves a low of 0 g/km in its electric variant, with petrol versions ranging from 123 to 126 g/km. The T-Cross, relying solely on petrol engines, emits between 127 and 135 g/km.

C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Conclusion: Which SUV Fits Your Lifestyle?

The ideal choice between the Citroen C3 and VW T-Cross ultimately hinges on individual lifestyle needs and preferences. The Citroen C3 shines with its versatile engine options, compelling electric range, and compact urban-friendly design. On the other hand, the VW T-Cross stands out with its robust engine performance, greater cargo capacity, and sleek design.

Whether prioritizing an eco-friendly electric drive or a sportier petrol performance, both the Citroen C3 and VW T-Cross present impressive packages, each tailor-made for modern drivers seeking something distinct in the compact SUV market. The key lies in identifying which blend of attributes best aligns with your driving aspirations.

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

T-Cross @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

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 VW T-Cross costs 21100 £. That’s a price difference of around 7372 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Citroen C3 manages with 5 L and is therefore minimal more efficient than the VW T-Cross with 5.40 L. The difference is about 0.40 L per 100 km.

C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the VW T-Cross has a distinct edge – offering 150 HP compared to 113 HP. That’s roughly 37 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW T-Cross is to a small extent quicker – completing the sprint in 8.40 s, while the Citroen C3 takes 9.90 s. That’s about 1.50 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW T-Cross performs minimal 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: VW T-Cross pulls somewhat stronger with 250 Nm compared to 205 Nm. That’s about 45 Nm difference.

T-Cross @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

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 curb weight, Citroen C3 is slight lighter – 1226 kg compared to 1267 kg. The difference is around 41 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW T-Cross offers clearly perceptible more room – 455 L compared to 310 L. That’s a difference of about 145 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW T-Cross performs minimal better – up to 1281 L, which is about 61 L more than the Citroen C3.

When it comes to payload, VW T-Cross to a small extent takes the win – 480 kg compared to 423 kg. That’s a difference of about 57 kg.

Who wins the race?

The VW T-Cross proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
VW T-Cross is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £21,100
T-Cross @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW T-Cross

  • Engine Type : Petrol
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 95 - 150 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5.4 - 6 L

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.

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VW T-Cross

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The VW T-Cross turns everyday practicality into a style statement, offering a roomy-feeling cabin, clever storage and playful design that suits town life and family duties alike. On the road it's composed and relaxed, rewarding buyers who want the raised seating and confident presence of an SUV without the weighty compromises.

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Citroen C3
VW T-Cross
C3 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
T-Cross @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
13700 - 23800 £
Price
21100 - 31500 £
Consumption L/100km
5 - 5.6 L
Consumption L/100km
5.4 - 6 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
124 - 136 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
44 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 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
1267 - 1338 kg
Trunk capacity
310 L
Trunk capacity
455 L
Length
4015 mm
Length
4127 mm
Width
1755 mm
Width
1784 mm
Height
1567 mm
Height
1573 mm
Max trunk capacity
1220 L
Max trunk capacity
1281 L
Payload
227 - 423 kg
Payload
463 - 480 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Reduction 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
95 - 150 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.9 - 12 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.4 - 11.3 s
Max Speed
125 - 183 km/h
Max Speed
180 - 200 km/h
Torque
120 - 205 Nm
Torque
175 - 250 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
74 - 83 kW
Power kW
70 - 110 kW
Engine capacity
1199 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1498 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Citroen
Brand
VW
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.