Small car is big fun

The Citroen DS3 has been named 2010 Car of the Year by Top Gear magazine, so, if it’s good enough for Jeremy Clarkson and his team of automotive experts, it must be good enough for me.

But what is it about this marque that makes it so special and why does it warrant the Top Gear Seal of approval?
Well, for starters, compact cars are definitely easier to park than bulking SUVs, which means this nippy little number is ideal for driving around Manama where parking is a challenge.

Also, because of its size, you’re closer to the ground which makes you feel as though you’re traveling faster because of your low centre of gravity ... this makes it particularly fun when negotiating corners.

As DS3 is a direct competitor to the Mini and the Fiat500 there are a number of similarities that can be drawn, such as its shape and size, although it is slightly longer than its rivals.

This extra space has been put to good use, creating a more spacious cockpit that provides front-seat passengers with more legroom.

The cockpit itself is very comfortable with attractive finishings and, as an added bonus, everything is clearly laid-out and easy to use.

The model I drove came with a 1.4-litre engine and a 4-speed automatic gearbox that packed enough power to get you where you’re going but you definitely won’t be lapping Jenson Button anytime soon … although the 1.6-Litre 6-speed manual option might make it a little more interesting.

Some of the standard features include electric windows, electronic stability control, ABS breaks, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth connectivity, remote central locking and daytime driving lights.

In terms of onboard entertainment, there isn’t a great deal, save for the radio, CD player and USB port for your MP3 player. However, this just means there is less distracting you from enjoying the driving experience.

What really makes this model stand out from other cars in its segment is the wide range of customisation options available. From the material used for the seats, the design of the wheels, even the paint job can be customised to ensure that people pay attention when you cruise by.

With the wide range of body colour combinations along with matching alloy wheels and a plethora of roof colours and patterns it’s a car that can truly be sculpted to your tastes.

One of the unique features about the design of this car is the ‘floating roof’. Because of the two-tone colour schemes available and split B-panel behind the door, while driving at relative speed, it gives the illusion that the roof is floating above the car.

That’s not all, its makers say that the DS3 was designed to resemble a shark, complete with gills and a fin nonetheless. I guess that’s why Top Gear believes this small car is a big fish in a small pond!

Prices start from BD7,900 for more details contact the Motor City showroom on 17736222.