A Citroen C3 GTi could be in the pipeline according to top bosses at the French brand. The new model would continue to focus on comfort and refinement, however, despite providing comparable performance to a Ford Fiesta ST.
Speaking from the opening round of the 2017 world Rally championship in Monte Carlo, PSA group CEO Carlos Tavares told us that Citroen was exploring the idea of a hot C3 using the knowledge of engineers from across the business.
Advertisement – post continues below
When asked about his ambitions for the brand, including whether WRC could influence a souped-up C3, Tavares told us: “There are may be some plans to upgrade the engines and go a little bit further. So, yes – why not for Citroen?”
• best hot hatchbacks on sale ideal now
Product planning chief Xavier Peugeot confirmed this, but insisted any C3 GTi or C3 VTS would have to maintain Citroen’s trademark comfort, refinement and practicality.
“Is it relevant to have Citroen Racing road cars? Definitely,” he said. “But I would like to keep this message of comfort at the same time. This is the challenge.”
The new C3 is said to embody values of the reborn French brand, which is rebuilding its line-up over the next few years after splitting from luxury division DS in 2015. crucial to this is Citroen advanced Comfort, which mixes suspension tuning, seat design, refinement and elements like interior light and space. This will translate from the conventional C3 models through to the range-topping hot hatchback.