Citroen C3 Aircross: what we know so far

Citroen is all set to introduce its third product for India – a midsize Creta-rivalling SUV based on the C3 hatchback. Likely to be called the C3 Aircross, Citroen says that the new SUV has been entirely designed and engineered here in India. The new model has already been spied tested on our roads before, and the carmaker has also confirmed a debut date. We bring you five things we know about the midsize SUV segment’s latest entrant. 

1. C3 Aircross to share CMP platform with C3 

The upcoming C3 Aircross will share the CMP modular platform that currently underpins the C3 hatchback. The spy shots also suggest that the C3 Aircross will have a design that would resemble the C3 hatchback. However, the Aircross will be a much larger car and won’t be a mere extension of the C3. Some stylistic elements like the split headlight set-up, the grille and wraparound tail-lamps will be carried over from the C3 hatchback, but the Aircross will have a more upright stance with a completely new rear quarter and more SUV-centric design details. As far as the measurements go, the C3 Aircross will measure around 4.2 metres in length – about the same as the Creta. 

2. Citroen C3 Aircross will get tweaked interiors, more equipment 

The C3 Aircross will also feature a tweaked dashboard design but some parts like the steering wheel and switchgear are expected to be carried over from the C3. What will be different is the touchscreen layout, and we also expect the C3 Aircross to have more equipment than the C3 hatchback. Among the key feature additions would be the inclusion of automatic climate control at least on the higher variants.

3. C3 Aircross likely to get multiple seating layouts

The C3 Aircross is likely to have two- and three-row seating options. This means the C3 Aircross will contest in both the Creta and Alcazar segments. However, at launch, the C3 Aircross will likely be only available with a two-row layout, with a three-row model following after. The longer wheelbase and the longer overall length will help Citroen add another row of seats. Like is the case with most three-row SUVs, the C3 Aircross could also come with an option of captain’s chairs in the second row. 

4. C3 Aircross will get ICE and EV powertrains 

The Citroen C3 Aircross is expected to carry over the 110hp, 190Nm, 1.2-litre, three-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine from the C3. It will come paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. A 6-speed automatic transmission is planned for the C3, and it is likely to also make its way into the C3 Aircross. As we have reported before, this upcoming midsize SUV will also get an electric powertrain that will be introduced at a later point in time, after the regular petrol-powered SUV goes on sale in India.

5. C3 Aircross will debut on April 27

Citroen recently confirmed that the new midsize SUV will make its global debut here in India on April 27. When launched, it will enter the crowded segment comprising many popular SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara.  However, going by Citroen’s strategy in India, it could aim to undercut the segment by a fair margin, which means it will be positioned directly against naturally aspirated petrol variants of Creta and Seltos, mild-hybrid variants of the Grand Vitara.