7 useful extras you can fit to a Citroën C3
The new Citroën C3 is a stylish addition to the small hatchback class in South Africa. Before you sit down with a salesperson, it’s worth checking out some of the functional accessories available from Citroën dealers, and what they cost.
1. Luggage compartment tray or mat
The floor of a hatchback’s luggage area is vulnerable to spills from groceries and damage from luggage or items with sharp edges. You can protect it with a perfectly fitted (loose) Citroën luggage compartment mat for R859 or a soft but strong and durable Citroën luggage compartment tray, for R1 771.
2. Coat hanger
There are few things worse than arriving at a formal event with a crumpled blazer or jacket. To prevent that, you could hang it from the little hook that’s usually above one of the rear passenger grab-handles. But, for a mere R172, you can get one from a Citroën dealer that easily fixes to the back of the front passenger’s head restraint.
Related: New vs old Citroën C3: What are the top 3 differences?
3. Set of two transverse roof bars
Roof bars are the foundation a modular transport system for luggage boxes, bicycles, canoes, surfboards and so on. A set for the C3 – bought from a Citroën dealer – costs R3 641.
4. Bike rack
When carrying a bicycle on a hatchback, there are three main options: on the roof, resting against the hatch, or on the ball of a towbar. Carrying it on the roof does add to aerodynamic drag, which increases fuel consumption. However, it does allow for quick and easy access to the boot. R1 642.
Related: New vs used Citroën C4 Picasso: what are the top 5 differences?
5. Thule Ranger roof bag
The luggage bay of the Citroën C3 holds a decent 300 litres, but that’s not enough for the average family. A hard-shell rooftop box is an elegant solution, but it needs storage space when not in use.
The Thule Ranger folds when it’s not in use, to be stored in a small space, like the boot of your Citroën. The 280-litre bag will keep out dirt and water, thanks to water-resistant material, welded seams, and a sealed zipper. It weighs just 7 kg, but has a load capacity of 50 kg. It comes with a special bag for storing. At R8 999 it’s certainly not cheap; but a trailer will cost at least 50 percent more.
6. Child seat
If you a strong aversion to shopping malls, you can buy a child seat from a Citroën dealer. They are of a high safety standard and Isofix compatible. R2 621.
7. Front central armrest
Hatchbacks sometimes have the disadvantage of not being fitted with centre armrests (that double as storage boxes). You can get the genuine Citroën article for a fairly stiff R3 021. Try to wrestle the sales representative into throwing one in as a sweetener.
Shop for new and used current-generation Citroën C3 cars for sale.
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