The new Citroën C3 Aircross is making waves in the automotive industry as one of the smallest and most affordable seven-seaters on the market. With a length of 4.39m, it is shorter than its competitors, including the Dacia Jogger, Citroën ë-Berlingo XL, and Land Rover Discovery Sport. This compact size makes it ideal for urban environments and tight parking spaces.
One of the notable features of the C3 Aircross is its switch to Stellantis’s new Smart Car architecture, which focuses on affordability. This platform is shared with other models like the Citroën C3 crossover, Fiat Grande Panda, and Vauxhall Frontera. It is designed to accommodate various powertrains, including petrol, mild-hybrid, and battery-electric options.
The petrol version of the C3 Aircross is equipped with Stellantis’s popular turbocharged 1.2-litre ‘Puretech’ three-cylinder engine, producing 100bhp. It is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox and delivers power to the front wheels. On the other hand, the mild-hybrid variant builds upon the petrol engine with 40% new components, such as a timing chain and variable-geometry turbocharger. It features a dual-clutch automatic transmission with a 28bhp electric motor powered by a 48V lithium-ion battery. This setup allows for electric-only driving in city conditions.
Both the petrol and mild-hybrid versions offer the option of five or seven seats, providing versatility for different passenger needs. However, the range-topping electric variant is only available with five seats. It shares its electric powertrain with the smaller ë-C3 model, featuring a 111bhp motor and a 44kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery pack. The electric C3 Aircross has a claimed range of 186 miles, slightly lower than the ë-C3. But Citroën plans to introduce a larger battery next year, boosting the range to over 250 miles.
In terms of performance, Citroën has not released the 0-62mph acceleration time for the C3 Aircross. However, considering its larger size compared to the ë-C3, it is expected to be slightly slower than the latter’s claimed time of 10.4 seconds. Nevertheless, Citroën assures that the C3 Aircross offers sufficient performance for everyday driving, particularly in urban areas.
Comfort was a top priority during the development of the C3 Aircross. It features hydraulic bump stops similar to those found in the C3, which provide enhanced support for the weight of up to seven passengers. Inside, the C3 Aircross boasts a head-up driver’s display and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. The first and second rows are equipped with two USB-C charging ports each, and range-topping models also offer a 15W wireless charger.
Interested buyers can expect the C3 Aircross to be available for order starting in September. The entry-level petrol variant is expected to have a starting price below £20,000, making it an affordable option in the seven-seater segment. Currently, the Dacia Jogger is the only seven-seater priced below £20,000, starting at £18,295.
Overall, the Citroën C3 Aircross stands out as an attractive choice for those seeking a compact and affordable seven-seater vehicle. With its versatile powertrain options, comfortable interior, and competitive pricing, it offers a compelling option in its segment. Whether for urban commuting or family adventures, the C3 Aircross is poised to make a statement in the automotive market.
