Citroen C3 Pluriel

   The Citroen C3 Pluriel is produced since 2002. It is based on the Citroen C3 hatchback.

   There is a choice of two petrol engines and one turbodiesel. The entry-level 1.4-liter petrol engine is spirited, but have to be work hard to make use of it's gearbox. The 1.4-liter turbodiesel performs better, furthermore it has a lower fuel consumption. Both 1.4-liter engines are coupled with a manual gearbox, while a five-speed sequential Sensodrive gearbox is optional on the 1.6-liter model. However it is jerky and hinders all the excessive performance.

   The Citroen Pluriel is lacklustre to drive. It's power steering weights up nicely at speed, but gives little feedback. Body control is also poor. The soft ride is fine on smooth roads, but coarse surfaces and urban potholes shudder through the body. There is noticeable increase in body flex when the side pillars are removed.

   None of the engines is noisy or rough. Road noise is also well kept away. In general Pluriel's isolation is similar to one on the C3 hatchback. With the roof up some wind noise is present, but it do not makes you feel uncomfortable, and when it is down things aren't too blustery as well. Unlike some convertibles the Citroen Pluriel doesn't demand too many sacrifices.

   The entry-level Pluriel is one of the cheapest open-topped cars. Even the top-spec models undercut many rivals. It's running and servicing costs are also reasonable, as most of the mechanical parts are common with the hatchback. The good thing about the Pluriel is it's brilliant resale values. Citroen is only average in terms of reliability. Engines should be trouble-free, but there are some concerns about the roof assembly, that don't look durable.

   Inside the car much of the interior is carried over from the C3 hatchback. Interior looks solidly put together, but some flimsy materials are disappointing. It's dash is similar to the hatchback with well placed and easy to use controls.

   Steering wheel has adjustments for height and reach, while driver's seat has adjustment for height. Unfortunately soft and flat seats do not give enough support on longer journeys. Rear visibility is limited with a fabric roof fully folded.

   There is plenty of space for the front passengers inside the Pluriel, while the rear accomodation is also fine for two adults. Car's legroom is acceptable while the headroom is generous. The boot is tiny. Furthermore the roof is stored underneath the boot floor, so you will need to unload the boot to put the boot down.

   The Citroen Pluriel comes with front and side airbags as well as anti-lock brakes. Some extra rollover protection is provided by a reinforced front pillars and the rear seat backs. Deadlocks are standard across the range but only the top-spec models are fitted with an alarm.

   Every car comes with all electric windows and electrically powered roof. A 1.6-liter model adds alloy wheels and has an optional pack that includes climate control, heated door mirrors and some other goodies. 1.4-liter model with Exclusive trim comes with an air conditioning and leather upholstery.

   Production of the Citroen C3 Pluriel still continues.

   Advantages: The Citroen Pluriel is one of the cheapest open-topped cars. It's unique roof offers a number of various arrangements.

   Disadvantages: This car is totally uninspiring to drive, while changing between the different roof modes is a fiddly process that takes time.

   Verdict: Can do a lot, but in reality it is good for nothing.

   Also consider: MINI Convertible, Nissan Micra CC.

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