Citroen C3 vs. Nissan Micra vs. Suzuki Ignis: Unusual Small Car Comparison

Comparing prices, Mat quickly concludes that the Ignis is the cheapest, followed closely by the Citroen C3. However, as we've already discussed, Nissan's new Micra is very expensive.

Styling is entirely subjective, but the whole point of these three is that they're completely different to standard 5-door hatchbacks. The Micra is bigger than its predecessor and has been covered with bold, futuristic creases. But we don't like its raised backside.

The C3 is supposed to resemble the Cactus crossover and as such has been fitted with rugged black cladding and the trademark Citroen Air Bump system on the doors. It's there to prevent scratches from supermarket trolleys, and we rather like it.

The Ignis is like a mini SUV, packed with character. It definitely stands out, but some people might not like the Japanese styling or the tall, narrow body.

All three cars are as quirky on the inside, with the C3 boasting leather straps for door handles and the Micra a two-tone dashboard. However, all fall short in the infotainment department to the segment benchmark setters.

The Ignis has the smallest trunk, though not the most crammed back seat. There's an AWD model that has even less trunk space, but AWD is something you can't get in any rival.

The C3 is a typical Citroen, fitted with suspension as soft as an old sofa. It's a car that doesn't like being thrashed. The gearbox is also unprecise, and the clutch won't appeal to keen drivers. The 1.6-liter diesel is also very economical, averaging 59 mpg in this real-world test.

The Suzuki Ignis is like a city car (Fiat 500), but with a raised sitting position giving you a crossover-like view of the road. With AWD, it can go places the other superminis can't. It really is a quirky mountain goat.

The Micra is the best to drive, more capable over bumps and stable at higher speeds. It gets crowned as the winner of this review. However, we wouldn't spend that much money on one instead of the competent Fiesta or Polo. And if it's the quirks you're after, you should just consider the Ignis or C3.