Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch

Read our handy guide on Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch comparison and how our new car loans can help you in funding your car purchase.
Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch
3 min
19 May 2025

If you're on the lookout for a compact car that combines unique styling with city-ready performance, the Citroen C3 and Tata Punch make for a very interesting comparison. Both cars cater to urban drivers who want a budget-friendly option without compromising on features and practicality. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking for a second car for city use, these hatchback-style SUVs offer plenty of value.

The Citroen C3 is known for its quirky design, spacious interiors, and turbo-petrol performance, while the Tata Punch has carved a niche for itself with a solid build, bold styling, and 5-star safety rating. So which one is the smarter buy for your lifestyle?

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Key highlights of Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch

Citroen C3 brings a fun-to-drive experience and standout design, while the Tata Punch offers high safety and better ground clearance for rougher city patches.

Quick price comparison:

  • Citroen C3: Starts at Rs. 4.95 lakh (ex-showroom)
  • Tata Punch: Starts at Rs. 5.60 lakh (ex-showroom)

Pro-tip: Bajaj Finserv New Car Loan can fund up to 100% of your chosen car’s on-road price. Check your new car loan eligibility to find out how much you can borrow.

Let’s compare both models across performance, fuel economy, dimensions, and in-cabin features.

Quick comparison of Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch

Parameter

Citroen C3

Tata Punch

Ex-showroom Price

Rs. 4.95 – Rs. 10.21 lakh*

Rs. 5.60 – Rs. 10.55 lakh*

ARAI Mileage

19.3 kmpl (P), 28.1 km/kg (CNG)

18.8 – 20.09 kmpl (P), 26.99 km/kg (CNG)

Fuel Types

Petrol / CNG

Petrol / CNG

Engine Displacement

1198 cc / 1199 cc (Turbo)

1199 cc

Transmission Types

Manual / 6-speed Automatic (TC)

Manual / AMT

Airbags

2 – 6

6 (Standard)


Engine and transmission

Both cars feature 1.2L petrol engines, but Citroen offers a turbocharged version for those wanting an extra kick. The Punch provides the convenience of an AMT gearbox.

Both cars feature 1.2L petrol engines, but their performance and transmission technology differ significantly. The Citroen C3 offers a sophisticated 6-speed Torque Converter automatic, which is smoother than the Punch's AMT. However, the Punch has introduced a 120 PS Turbo engine to rival Citroen's turbocharged performance.

Specification

Citroen C3

Tata Punch

Engine Type

1.2L PureTech 82 / Turbo 110

1.2L Revotron / 1.2L Turbo

Max Power

82 PS – 110 PS

88 PS – 120 PS

Max Torque

115 Nm – 205 Nm

115 Nm – 170 Nm

Transmission Options

5 & 6-speed MT / 6-speed AT

5 & 6-speed MT / AMT


Fuel and performance

Citroen C3’s turbo engine offers more punch, while the Punch is more versatile with a CNG option for lower running costs.

Fuel Type C3 mileage (ARAI) Punch mileage (ARAI)
Petrol 19.3 kmpl 18.8 – 20.09 kmpl
CNG 28.1 km/kg 26.99 km/kg

 

Dimension and capacity

The Citroen C3 provides a longer wheelbase for superior rear legroom, whereas the Tata Punch remains the king of ground clearance and boot utility.

Parameter

Citroen C3

Tata Punch

Length

3981 mm

3876 mm

Wheelbase

2540 mm

2445 mm

Boot Space

315 litres

366 litres

Ground Clearance

180 mm

193 mm


Design and exterior

The Citroen C3 has been updated with LED projector headlamps and 15-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, enhancing its "funky" French aesthetic. The Tata Punch continues with its muscular "mini-SUV" look, featuring a high bonnet line, R16 diamond-cut alloy wheels, and a shark fin antenna.

Interior and cabin space

The C3’s cabin is clean and airy with a massive 10.25-inch touchscreen. The Punch offers a more rugged, tech-forward interior with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and its unique 90-degree door opening for the easiest ingress and egress in its class.

Technology and infotainment

  • Citroen C3: 10.25-inch floating infotainment with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay and a basic digital instrument cluster.
  • Tata Punch: 10.24-inch HD touchscreen, iRA connected car tech, 360-degree camera with Blind View Monitor, and a voice-assisted sunroof.

Safety features and ratings

The Tata Punch holds a clear lead in safety certifications, being one of the first in India to secure a perfect 5-star rating.

Safety feature

Citroen C3

Tata Punch

Airbags

2 – 6

6 (Standard)

ABS with EBD

Yes

Yes

B-NCAP Rating (Adult)

Not Yet Rated

5-star

B-NCAP Rating (Child)

Not Yet Rated

5-star


Comfort and convenience

Both cars are designed to offer a comfortable urban driving experience, but they focus on different aspects of convenience. The Citroen C3 emphasises ergonomic simplicity and a plush ride, while the Tata Punch packs in more segment-first features for a premium feel.

Citroen C3 highlights:

  • Flat rear floor: Offers comfortable seating for three adults in the back with ample legroom.
  • Plush suspension: Citroen’s signature "Flying Carpet" ride quality, which absorbs bumps better than most competitors.
  • 10.25-inch Infotainment: Includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for a clutter-free cabin.
  • Updated features: Now includes automatic climate control, power-adjustable mirrors, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel in higher variants.

Tata Punch highlights:

  • Premium convenience: Features a voice-assisted electric sunroof, a wireless phone charger, and a 360-degree surround-view camera.
  • Utility-focused: Includes a cooled glovebox, automatic headlamps, and rain-sensing wipers.
  • 90-degree door opening: The unique door hinge design allows for the easiest possible entry and exit, especially for elderly passengers.
  • Rear AC vents: Ensures faster cooling for rear-seat passengers, a feature that enhances comfort during Indian summers.

Pro-tip: If your daily route involves broken roads and you prefer a "magic carpet" ride that glides over potholes, the Citroen C3 is unbeatable in this segment. However, if you are a tech-savvy buyer who wants the lifestyle appeal of a sunroof, the convenience of a 360-degree camera, and the easiest cabin access for your family, the Tata Punch is the superior choice.

Why choose Bajaj Mall for your car purchase

Looking to buy the Citroen C3 or Tata Punch? Make your purchase journey smooth and budget-friendly with Bajaj Mall. The platform offers a wide variety of car models and helps you find the right one using simple, user-friendly filters based on your budget and needs.

Buying a new car is quick and hassle-free with the Bajaj Finserv New Car Loan. This loan offers flexible EMI plans, longer repayment tenures, and competitive car loan interest rates — making it easier to manage your monthly expenses. These features help you make the transition to car ownership in a stress-free way.

Want to skip the waiting time? Check your pre-approved new car loan offer now and fast-track your Citroen C3 or Tata Punch purchase.

To stay within your budget, try the new car loan EMI calculator available on the website. It lets you estimate monthly payments in advance and plan your purchase smartly.

Need funds to complete your car purchase? With the Bajaj Finserv New Car Loan, you can get up to 100% financing of the car’s on-road price. Check your new car loan eligibility now and take the next step towards owning the Citroen C3 or Tata Punch without financial stress.

Why wait? Visit Bajaj Mall, explore your options, and drive home your new car with ease and confidence.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better: Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch ?

If you prioritise smooth automatic driving (torque converter) and punchy turbocharged torque (205 Nm) for the highway, the Citroen C3 is a fantastic choice. However, if you want maximum safety (B-NCAP 5-star), better ground clearance, and premium features like a sunroof, the Tata Punch is the superior all-rounder.

Which car is cheaper between Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch ?

The Citroen C3 now has a lower entry price, starting at Rs. 4.95 lakh, making it one of the most affordable cars in its segment. The Tata Punch starts at Rs. 5.60 lakh.

Which car gives better mileage between Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch ?

The Citroen C3 CNG offers a higher ARAI mileage of 28.1 km/kg, compared to the Punch's 26.99 km/kg. In petrol, both are closely matched at around 19 kmpl.

Which car gives better top-speed between Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch ?
Citroen C3 Turbo is likely faster due to its turbocharged engine.

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