CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 60.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 130
Average Price: Around £3,250

Citroën DS3 (2010-2018) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Sporty looks stand out among bland rivals	The ride is harsh and uncomfortable
The stylish cabin lifts the DS3 above the norm	Rear seats are hard to reach and short on legroom
Strong performance from the more powerful engines	Cabriolet is more of a hatchback with a full-length sunroof

Quick Summary

The Citroën DS3 (2010-2018) is a striking and stylish supermini that stands out from the crowd with its distinctive design, featuring a gaping grille, boomerang front LEDs, and a shark's fin B-pillar. The interior is equally appealing, with soft-touch materials and funky design touches that elevate it above rivals. A convertible version, the DS3 Cabrio, is also available, featuring a full-length sunroof rather than a fully retractable roof. The car underwent a facelift in 2015 when DS became an independent brand, separating from Citroën.

Practicality is not the DS3's strong suit, with a cramped rear, restrictive legroom, and limited storage. However, the 285-litre boot is comparable to a Ford Fiesta. The driving experience is mixed: whilst the car feels agile in corners with good grip, the steering is vague and the ride is uncomfortable, with high road noise at motorway speeds. Engine options include petrol units (1.4-litre VTi, 1.6-litre VTi, 1.6 THP turbo, and later 1.2-litre Puretech) and 1.6-litre HDi diesel engines offering strong acceleration and exceptional fuel economy. Running costs are low, with diesel engines achieving mid-50s mpg in real-world driving and petrol engines returning 35-40mpg. Servicing is affordable through independent garages or Citroën dealers.

Best for: Style-conscious buyers seeking a distinctive, eye-catching supermini with a premium feel, and those prioritising visual appeal and cabin design over practicality.

Not ideal for: Families needing spacious rear seating, those seeking a comfortable long-distance cruiser, or buyers prioritising practicality and ease of access.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the DS3 if: You prioritise style and visual appeal, seek a distinctive supermini with a premium cabin, and value design over practicality.

Consider alternatives if: You need spacious rear seating, require a comfortable long-distance cruiser, or prioritise practicality and ease of access for all passengers.

Competitive Position: The Citroën DS3 (2010-2018) excels in style and cabin design, offering exceptional value with 60.8% of listings representing good or great deals. Whilst it trails the MINI Hatch in expert rating and overall CarGurus score, it matches or exceeds rivals in user satisfaction. The DS3 provides a distinctive alternative to the Fiat 500 and Peugeot 208, appealing to buyers who value aesthetic appeal and premium feel. However, its uncomfortable ride, cramped rear, and vague steering mean it sacrifices driving dynamics and practicality for style. For budget-conscious buyers seeking a head-turning supermini with low running costs, the DS3 remains an excellent choice, though those prioritising comfort and space should explore alternatives.

Read our full Citroën DS3 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from May 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.

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