CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.1%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.0 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 150
Average Price: Around £3,000

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 create a premium feel. 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, and the model was renamed DS 3.

The DS3 offers a range of petrol and diesel engines, with the more powerful 1.6-litre THP turbo and 1.6-litre HDi diesel options delivering strong performance and economy respectively. However, the driving experience is somewhat underwhelming, with vague steering, an uncomfortable ride, and high road noise at motorway speeds. Practicality is limited, with a cramped rear, tiny storage compartments, and a modest 285-litre boot. Running costs are reasonable, with diesel engines achieving mid-50s mpg in real-world driving and petrol engines returning 35-40mpg. Servicing is affordable, as the DS3 shares its platform with the Citroën C3.

Best for: Style-conscious buyers seeking a distinctive supermini with panache, those prioritising eye-catching design over practicality, and drivers wanting strong performance from turbocharged or diesel engines.

Not ideal for: Families needing rear seat space and comfort, those prioritising a smooth ride and refinement, or buyers requiring extensive storage and practicality features.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the DS3 if: You prioritise distinctive styling and a premium cabin feel, seek strong performance from turbocharged or diesel engines, and are willing to compromise on practicality and ride comfort.

Consider alternatives if: You need spacious rear seats, prioritise a smooth and comfortable ride, require extensive storage, or want superior handling and refinement.

Competitive Position: The Citroën DS3 (2010-2018) is a stylish and characterful supermini that excels in visual appeal and cabin design. Whilst it may not match the MINI Hatch for handling or the Peugeot 208 for overall value, the DS3 offers genuine panache and strong engine options at an affordable price point. Its main weakness is the uncomfortable ride and limited practicality, making it better suited to style-conscious individuals than families. The DS3 represents excellent value for those prioritising aesthetics and personality over conventional practicality.

Read our full Citroën DS3 Review

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