C3's in it for the long haul

TEST DRIVE

- BY EDWARD STEPHENS

HIGH prices and limited range are the main inhibitors of electric car sales but the new e-C3 from Citroen tackles both head on.

This trendy new SUV is available from just over £22,000 - around the same price as numerous small petrol cars. Add a sensible range of 199 miles and relatively quick charging times and it's easy to see why this newcomer is tempting previously reluctant petrol and diesel car drivers to finally make the switch.

With its high stance, oversized Citroen chevron badges on the front and rear, roof rails and contrasting roof/body colours the e-C3 has plenty of kerb appeal.

Inside, too, it's impressive, with a twin-tone colour scheme, generous head and leg space in both the front and rear and a tiny flat-bottomed steering wheel that you look over rather than through, similar to cars from Citroen’s sister company Peugeot.