Body type |
Convertible |
Number of doors |
2 |
Number of seats |
4 |
Engine position |
Front |
Driven wheels |
Front |
Length |
3 934 mm |
Width |
1 700 mm |
Height |
1 563
mm |
Wheelbase |
2 460
mm |
Ground clearance |
120
mm |
Weight (normal) |
1 128 kg |
Weight (max) |
1 506 kg |
Boot space (min) |
137 l |
Boot space (max) |
266 l |
Fuel capacity |
47 l |
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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.
Video of the Citroen C3 Pluriel
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