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Should I buy a diesel Citroen DS3 for short journeys?

I am thinking of replacing my Peugeot 206 with a Citroen DS3 and had been intending to purchase a petrol model. However, the salesman is recommending a diesel on the basis that fuel consumption is more economical and it would be in the nil band for annual tax. I drive about 6000 miles a year, a mix of short journeys and occasional motorway driving. I had not considered a diesel, as I understood short journeys damaged the particulate filter, but the salesman tells me that the filter can be easily cleared by an occasional fast burst. Is he right and, if so, would you recommend diesel rather than petrol?

Asked on 19 October 2013 by EW, Whyteleafe, Surrey

Answered by Honest John
The only DS3 to buy is the 1.6THP 155 Sport. It's huge fun, and despite the performance still gives around 45mpg. A diesel engine is simply wrong for the car. And, assuming you get 55mpg from it, the saving over 6000 miles a year will not overcome all the potentially expensive problem areas of a diesel. That said, if you get rid of it while still less than three years old they should be covered by warranty.

Test and video: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/citroen/citroen-ds.../ and test of the DS3 cabrio: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/citroen/citroen-ds.../

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