Used Citroen DS3 for sale near Portsmouth

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 68.5%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 200
Average Price: Around £3,300

Citroen 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 Citroen DS3 (2010-2018) launched to critical acclaim, standing out with its striking design, including a distinctive grille, boomerang LEDs, shark’s fin B-pillar, and a 'floating roof' illusion created by contrasting colours. Initially part of Citroen's premium sub-brand, DS became an independent brand in 2015, leading to the car being simply known as the DS 3. A Cabrio version was also available, featuring a roll-back sunroof. Inside, the cabin offers soft-touch materials and funky design, although practicality is limited with small storage and restricted rear access in its three-door-only body. Its 285-litre boot is comparable to a Ford Fiesta.

While the DS3 offers plenty of grip and feels agile in corners, its vague steering and uncomfortable, harsh ride detract from the driving experience, making long journeys tiring due to high road noise. Engine options included 1.4 and 1.6-litre VTi petrols, 1.6 THP turbos, and later, efficient 1.2-litre Puretech three-cylinder petrols, alongside 1.6-litre HDi diesels known for strong economy. Running costs are generally low, with diesels achieving mid-50s MPG and petrols around 35-40 MPG. Trim levels like DStyle and DSport offer air conditioning and other features, though the base DSign lacks it. Owners should note the serious airbag recall issued by Stellantis for this model.

Best for: Drivers seeking a stylish, distinctive car, those who appreciate strong performance from higher-end engines, and buyers looking for affordable running costs.

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising cabin practicality, comfortable ride, quiet motorway cruising, or easy rear-seat access.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the DS3 if: You're looking for a stylish and distinctive car, appreciate strong performance from certain engines, or prioritise affordable running costs.

Consider alternatives if: You need better cabin practicality, a more comfortable ride, quieter motorway cruising, or easier rear-seat access.

Competitive Position: The Citroen DS3 (2010-2018) stands out in the supermini segment with its unique, eye-catching design and a stylish interior that offers a sense of flair. While it may not excel in practicality or ride comfort compared to some rivals, its strong engine options and generally low running costs make it an appealing choice for those prioritising aesthetics and performance on a budget. It offers a more distinctive alternative to conventional hatchbacks like the Peugeot 208, and a potentially more affordable stylish option than a MINI.

Read our full Citroen DS3 Review

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