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)
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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.