Whoever does not compete in the B-SUV segment today is missing out on one of the most popular segments on the market. Since the arrival of Nissan Juke For more than a decade, the number of crossover utility models has only grown. The new Citroen C3 Aircross It is the bet of the double chevron firm, a model that succeeds the defenestrated one C3 Picasso already the first generation of the eponymous model.
In the first moment Citroën decided to go for a B-SUV, which was more of an urban minivan. For 8 years the C3 Picasso met expectations But the French finally decided to change it for a model that, while retaining much of its versatility, has the SUV aspect. So in 2017 the change took place accompanied by a new name that in 2024 saw the arrival of the second generation.
The renewed Citroën C3 AirCross has nothing to do with its predecessor because even its platform is new. And that is not the only thing that has changed, since this model has just left the production line of the factory that Stellantis has in the Spanish city of Figueruelas (Zaragoza). This is because it is now a global model that aims to conquer customers from multiple markets, even by betting on pure electrification…
Technical characteristics of the Citroën C3 Aircross
From its name it is more than clear that the C3 Aircross is born from the rib of a Citroën C3. Taking this as a basis, the crossover chooses to increase the wheelbase and to provide a touch of particular design. Under that body we find Stellantis' new Smart Car platform, the same is used by rival models such as the new Opel Frontera or the Fiat Grande Panda. All three are considered sister models but from different brands.
Due to its dimensions, the Citroën C3 fits perfectly into the compact segment. 4,39 meters long, 1,79 meters wide and 1,66 meters high. These exterior dimensions are accompanied by a wheelbase of 2,67 metres. An interior space that can accommodate between five and seven passengers in a 2+3+2 layout with a rear bench that loses the three independent seats but maintains the sliding function.
It should not be forgotten that the Citroën C3 Aircross is derived from a utility vehicle, and therefore boasts practical solutions typical of that category. The boot is a good example of this conversion. The minimum volume is 460 liters for the five-seat units and 330 litres for the seven-seat versions. Finally The maximum trunk volume reaches 1.600 liters., obtained by folding down the second and third row of seats, with the two additional seats being an extra across the entire range.
Mechanical range and gearboxes of the Citroën C3 Aircross
When it comes to powering the C3 Aircross, Stellantis uses a short, low-power mechanical range to keep sales prices balanced and low. The range is structured into a single gasoline engine and an electric engine.Micro-hybrid petrol engines are associated with a six-speed manual transmission and a front-wheel drive layout. In the case of the electric model, it is always automatic without gear ratios.
If we talk about the gasoline engine, we find the usual PureTech nomenclature of Stellantis. This is something we already know 1.2 liters turbocharged three-cylinder engine capable of generating two power outputs. One of access with 101 horses and another superior with 136 horsesIn the first case it is pure gasoline, while in the second it is a Mild Hybrid thanks to the use of a secondary 48-volt electrical network and a 29 HP electric motor.
As for the electric offer, there is only one unit available. It is the ë-C3 AirCross version that offers 113 horsepower and 125 Nm of torque. It always comes associated with an automatic gearbox that is responsible for sending all the power to the front axle. To power itself, it uses a 44 kWh battery that gives it an estimated range of between 306 and 400 kilometers according to the WLTP protocol.
Equipment of the Citroën C3 Aircross
The short range of mechanics is accompanied by a reduced but well presented range of equipment. The offer is made up of two levels: You and Max to which two optional packs are added. The entry level has interesting details such as cruise control, automatic light sensor, air conditioning or fabric upholstery, among others. A fair equipment that will force you to go to the higher levels to have all the technology.
Inside the doors, the Citroën C3 Aircross is offered as an affordable and customizable SUV. A lot of hard plastic that gives a sense of quality that could be improved, although in tune with the rest of the segment. Many details are sensitive to receive considerable customization by customers. Optional that by the way are not excessively expensive.
Finally The Max finish includes all the customization and all the equipment that the C3 Aircross is capable of presenting.. That means it has a contrasting paint roof, uniquely designed wheels and much more. Despite the good equipment, we can improve it with options such as front and rear parking aids. At all levels, a fair but correct load of security elements and driving assistants is offered.
The Citroën C3 Aircross in video
The Citroën C3 Aircross according to Euro NCAP
The new Citroen C3 AirCross was subjected to the demanding test of Euro NCAP in mid-2017 obtaining the highest score, 5 stars. This note corresponds to the first, and previous, generation, so the new one has not yet been subjected to EuroNCAP impact tests. As a curious fact, the C3 AirCross from Mercosur achieved 0 stars in the Latin NCAP tests, which suggests that in Europe it will not achieve more than 3 or 4 stars at most.
The Citroën C3 Aircross Km 0 and second hand
El Citroen C3 AirCross It is a model that has been on sale since the end of 2017, but thanks to its popularity we can find a wide range of models in the second-hand and used channels. depreciation is located in a correct 31 percent, placing a couple of points above their rivals. Thanks to this, the French still have good sales prices.
The cheapest second-hand units start their prices in amounts close to 12.000 euros. In their favor, they say that we are talking about well-equipped versions with controlled mileage. Wide is also the offer in the market of Km 0. Dealerships accumulate many units in stock for easy and quick sale. In this section we can find a great variety, from access models to well-equipped versions with succulent discounts.
Rivals of the Citroën C3 Aircross
The C-SUV segment has become the most popular in Europe. The C3 Aircross, although a B-SUV in terms of price, is the French brand's competitor in such a competitive niche. The rivalry is impressive, so much so that their rivals number in the dozens., even more so in the generalist category. Its main rivals are its cousins Opel Frontera y Peugeot 2008, although this one is in another price category. But we can also add other popular models such as the Renault Captur, Hyundai Kona, KIA Sonic and FIAT 500X, among others.
Highlight
- Design
- habitability
- customization program
To improve
- Suspension setting
- Adjustment of some materials
- poor equipment
Citroen C3 Aircross prices
The C3 Aircross is a popular car in its segment because it offers a value for money in relation to all its qualities. In the most economical of cases the Citroën C3 Aircross presents a starting price of 19.290 euros. This budget corresponds to the entry-level PureTech mechanical variant of 101 hp with You finish. On the other side of the scale is the electric ë-C3 AirCross of 113 hp and Max finish. Its price officially starts at 29.680 euros, without offers or promotions.
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