Citroen C3 Aircross Compact SUV Debuts – 4.3m Length, 200mm GC

Citroen C3 Aircross will be competing with a host of cars, including popular MUVs as well as best selling compact SUVs

From the time Citroen launched its first product in India, the C5 Aircross in 2021, the company has been working to expand its portfolio. After C3 and its electric version e-C3, Citroen has now added the C3 Aircross for India. The move seems justified as C3 is the bestseller for Citroen in India. Using the same platform will help reduce development and production cost.

Citroen C3 Aircross three-row variant will compete with the likes of Renault Triber, Kia Carens, and Maruti Ertiga and XL6. The 5-seat variant will take on the likes of Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Kia Seltos and Toyota HyRyder. As is evident, Citroen C3 Aircross faces a tough battle ahead.

Citroen C3 Aircross design and features

Citroen C3 Aircross has a distinctive styling in comparison to the C3 hatchback. Front fascia has a more robust and muscled profile, in line with the car’s larger dimensions. Lighting appears similar to C3 hatchback, but other elements like front grille, air dam, skid plate and fog lamps are new.

Pentagonal pattern on the alloy wheels seems familiar, but there are only 4 blocks with C3 Aircross. In comparison, C3 hatchback and C5 Aircross have 5 pentagonal blocks on the alloy wheels. This is done largely for differentiation purposes, as the changes do not make any format superior to the other.

Speaking about Citroen C3 Aircross dimensions, it is 4.3 meter long, has a 2671mm wheelbase. Ground clearance is 200 mm. Boot space is 511 liters with 3rd row seats folded. Inside, Citroen C3 Aircross offers a comprehensive range of premium features. One of the key highlights is a full-digital instrument cluster with a circular tachometer. It integrates the speedometer, whereas the fuel level and engine temperature are placed on the left and right, respectively.

The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is the same as that available with C3 Shine variant. Just like C3 hatchback, the C3 Aircross is equipped with a comprehensive range of internet connected smart features. These can be accessed via the MyCitroen Connect app.

C3 Aircross has roof mounted AC vents for second and third row passengers. Rear passengers also have access to blower control and dedicated USB charging ports. While C3 Aircross has spacious interiors, things could get a bit congested for taller passengers in third row.

Citroen C3 Aircross performance, safety

Powertrain options for C3 Aircross have been borrowed from the C3 hatchback. Lower-spec variants will be using the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol motor that churns out 82 PS of max power and 115 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Three-row variants will get the 1.2-litre turbo petrol motor that makes 110 PS.

Citroen C3 Aircross offers a comprehensive range of security features. It includes electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), rear view camera, high speed alert system, day-night IRVM and electronic stability program. Citroen C3 Aircross SUV launch will take place in Q3 2023, prices expected to start from Rs 8-9 lakh range.