2019 Citroen C3 1.2L Petrol · SB19 HHN

The 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine fitted to this generation of C3 is known to return real-world fuel economy in the high 40s to low 50s mpg, depending on driving style, which translates to modest fuel costs for a supermini of this size. Road tax is inexpensive thanks to its Euro 6 status, sitting in a low VED band for a petrol car registered from 2019. Insurance is typically affordable given the C3's supermini footprint, generally falling within groups 8 to 15 depending on trim.

Routine maintenance tends to be reasonable, though PureTech engines of this era have been associated with timing belt or wet belt wear issues at higher mileages, which is worth budgeting for. Expect typical annual maintenance in the £300 to £500 range for a car of this age, with the possibility of higher bills if the timing belt is due. Overall estimated running costs land at roughly £1,200 to £1,500 per year including fuel, tax, insurance and maintenance.

Begin with the front brakes: the April 2026 MOT failure recorded pitted or scored front discs and thin front pads at 34,931 miles. Jack the car up and visually check disc surface condition, thickness, and pad material remaining, as these parts may now need replacement and could be a useful negotiation point. Also confirm the front undertray is secure and that all fixings are present, as an insecure undertray at MOT suggests either a missing clip or recent work that was not properly reassembled.

Beyond the MOT history, walk around the car looking for panel gaps, scuffs on the grey paintwork, and any signs of accident repair on the bumper corners and wheel arches. Check that all tyres are matching in brand, size and tread depth, given the 2025 nail advisory. Inside the car, test every electrical function including the touchscreen, air conditioning, electric windows and central locking, and listen for any clonks from the suspension over speed bumps which would warrant further investigation.