IF you are in the market for a stylish, economical used supermini, then it would be a hard choice to look much further than Citroen's quirky C3.

For this little gem brought a breath of fresh air into the B sector with its chic exterior styling which put much of its opposition to shame.

For not only had the C3 got it in the looks department, it also came very well equipped, oozing refinement and comfort unparalled in such a small vehicle.

And while the top-end models lacked for nothing, they also came with a fab sun-grabbing panoramic windscreen which is a third larger than those normally found on similar-sized vehicles.

Coupled with the car's super-slim front pillars, the glazed area sweeping over the top of the roof, offered visibility pretty much without compare.

But it was not just this feature which made the C3 stand out from the crowd, for designers gave the car a sleek, yet purposeful look.

From the front, the eye is immediately drawn to the C3's large front grille and boomerang-shaped headlights, which coupled with the car's low stance, gave it something of an aggressive look.

With the main specification model ranges being Connection, VT, VTR+ and Exclusive, other models included Black, White and Airdream versions, all in all providing a large choice to get to grips with.

However, those buyers willing to spend just that little extra to get into the range-topping Exclusive specced models certainly won't be disappointed, for they come fully equipped for life in today's fast lane.

Features such as Alcantara/cloth seats, leather steering wheel, six-speaker MP3/CD sound system, cruise control, brushed steel-effect lower dashboard, automatic digital air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors and even a scented air freshner are all fitted as standard.

Other equipment such as ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution and emergency brake assist, along with a whole collection of airbags, also help make the vehicle a safe place in which to travel.

On the road the C3 delivers a more-than-pleasant experience. Nippy around town and a highly-capable performer on faster roads, helped in part by its driver-friendly cruise control system, the Citroen is quite a little gem.

For a smallish family car you also get a large boot. However, this feature somewhat compromises rear leg room, but front seat adjustment is good, while the seats themselves are big, comfortable and supporting.

Exclusive trim models came with the choice of a 1.4-litre 95bhp or a 1.6-litre 120bhp petrol unit, while a pair of 1.6-litre diesels delivering either 90bhp or 110bhp completed the line-up, so there is bound to be a model to suit every need.

A 2011 11-plate C3 1.6 HDi 110bhp diesel in Exclusive trim with 50,000 miles on the clock will cost between £4,375 and £5,985, while a 2012 12-plate model will cost from £5,470 to £7,135. An updated 2013 13-plate 1.6 e-HDi Airdream Exclusive clocking around 30,000 miles will cost between £6,030 and £7,750.

Petrol models cost even less. A 2011 11-plate 1.4 VTi 95bhp, again in Exclusive trim, will range between £4,080 and £5,585. A 2012 12-plate will come in between £4,915 to £6,405, while expect to pay from £5,655 to £7,275 for a 2013 example sporting a 13-plate.