The midsize SUV segment is boiling with competition. While there are already many contenders in this field, Citroën has also announced to participate in this race. The French brand has taken the wraps off its midsize SUV. It is called the Citroën C3 Aircross. The new SUV will compete with the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, and the Skoda Kushaq. However, the list of its rivals does not end there. The 5+2 seating option also rivals the likes of Kia Carens and Maruti Suzuki XL6. But will it survive the fierce competition? Here are our first impressions of the Citroen C3 Aircross.
2023 Citroen C3 Aircross: Design
A first glance at the Citroen C3 Aircross is enough to reveal that it is a perfect mix of the smaller C3 and the bigger C5 Aircross. While the dimensions are bigger than the C3, Citroen has definitely upped the boldness quotient in the design. The personality is suited to a new bumper, which houses fog lamps like the C5 Aircross. In addition, the signature Y-shaped LED DRLs can also be seen here. The radiator grille features square inserts, and a piano-black finish tightens the face.
Citroen has also tightened the creases on the side fenders. The C3 Aircross uses 17-inch, diamond-cut alloy wheels, but the four-spoke design looks odd. A chunky black cladding runs the length of the car, adding to the distinctive SUV redness. The cladding also gets small colour-coordinated inserts on the doors. The extension in the wheelbase is visible. After all, it is a class-leading figure of 2,671mm. The thick C-pillar adds to the visual bulk, but it definitely helps the SUV to have a strong presence. Small wraparound windows like the EcoSport can be seen here.
The window merges with the windscreen, which sets in an upright fashion in conjunction with the boot lid. The chunky tail lamps look as fashionable as the headlamps. A meaty looking scuff plate is fitted around the chin. Connecting the tail lamps is a piano-black element, which adds to the fashionista appeal of the C3 Aircross. Overall, the design looks attractive and every bit an SUV.
2023 Citroen C3 Aircross: Cabin Space
Getting inside the C3 Aircross has to be done using the old fashioned lift-type door handles. However, the sound of the door feels satisfactory. The dashboard is similar to the smaller C3. The only visible change is a revision of the color palette. It uses a set of subtle colors. While the setup is practical and fancy looking, the models shown during the unveiling exercise missed out on automatic climate controls. In addition, the steering wheel was free of the cruise control switch. We’re guessing Citroen has showcased the top-spec trims, but expect a few extras.
The features list includes a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an all-digital instrument cluster with LCD, steering-mounted audio controls, power-adjustable ORVMs, keyless entry and more. The second row of the 5+2 seating configuration will also get roof mounted air vents. Also, the rear bench is spacious. It can seat three people at a time with ample legroom and headroom. The absence of roof mounted air vents has been taken care of with increased legroom in the 5-seater version.
The last row on the Citroen C3 Aircross is best for kids, and adults can use it for short runs, says Citroen. We completely agree with him. Interestingly, the seats can be removed completely, expanding the boot space to a class-leading volume of 511 litres. In short, the interior of the Citroen C3 Aircross looks practical. Also, the seats in the C3 Aircross are definitely the most comfortable we’ve seen on a car in this space. However, there is no sunroof on offer, which almost all its rivals get – the Maruti Suzuki XL6 being an exception.
2023 Citroen C3 Aircross: Performance
The French haven’t spoken much on the subject yet, but it has been confirmed that the Citroen C3 Aircross will use a 1.2L turbo-petrol engine that also powers the C3. It will generate more power and torque with revised tuning and a larger intercooler. The power and torque outputs are likely to be 120 PS and 220 Nm respectively. In keeping with Citroën’s legacy of making comfortable cars, the C3 Aircross will, in all likelihood, be the benchmark for a comfortable and composed ride. With 200 mm of ground clearance, the C3 Aircross can be a capable car even on rough stretches of road.
Also Read – Maruti Suzuki Brezza: 5 things that made the compact SUV a best-seller in India
2023 Citroen C3 Aircross: Expected price
The Citroen C3 Aircross will be launched in the country and other parts of the world later this year. After all, this is a global model for the brand. As for the expected price, it could start from Rs. 9 lakhs and top out at Rs. 15 lakhs, ex-showroom.