Used Citroen DS3 for sale near Swansea

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 77.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 160
Average Price: Around £3,200

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), initially launched as Citroen's premium sub-brand, is a visually striking supermini known for its distinctive design elements like the gaping grille, boomerang LEDs, and "shark’s fin" B-pillar. While its interior boasts soft-touch materials and funky touches, practicality is limited with tiny storage and challenging rear seat access due to its three-door-only body style and restrictive legroom. The 285-litre boot offers reasonable space compared to some rivals, but the driving experience is generally underwhelming, with vague steering, an uncomfortable ride, and high road noise.

Despite its driving flaws, the DS3 is cheap to run, with earlier 1.6-litre HDi diesels achieving mid-50s MPG and petrol engines returning 35-40mpg. Facelifted 1.2-litre Puretech engines can offer mid-40s MPG. Citroen's affordable parts and maintenance costs contribute to low running expenses. Although the convertible DS3 Cabrio features only a roll-back sunroof, the DS3 offers a level of panache that few rivals can match for the price, especially with its spirited performance from more powerful engines.

Best for: Drivers prioritising distinctive styling and a stylish interior, those seeking a supermini with spirited engine options, and buyers looking for affordable running costs.

Not ideal for: Buyers needing high levels of practicality and rear passenger space, those prioritising refined driving dynamics and ride comfort, or drivers who frequently undertake long motorway journeys.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the DS3 if: You prioritise distinctive styling and a stylish interior, seek a supermini with spirited engine options, or are looking for affordable running costs.

Consider alternatives if: You need high levels of practicality and rear passenger space, prioritise refined driving dynamics and ride comfort, or frequently undertake long motorway journeys.

Competitive Position: The Citroen DS3 (2010-2018) stands out in the supermini segment for its unique and stylish design, offering a level of panache often missing from rivals. While it provides spirited performance from more powerful engines and boasts affordable running costs, its practicality is limited by cramped rear seats and small storage. Its driving dynamics, characterised by vague steering and an uncomfortable ride, fall short of competitors like the MINI. However, for buyers prioritising style and economy over ultimate practicality and driving refinement, the DS3 offers compelling value.

Read our full Citroen DS3 Review

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