Citroen C3 Aircross B-SUV global reveal expected on September 16

Tuhin Guha Published: August 10, 2021, 05:51 PM IST

Citroen India has confirmed that its next major reveal will take place on September 16. This is a B-SUV that is most likely the new sub-four-metre SUV that will form the core of the brand's India range. The new SUV is expected to be termed the Citroen C3 Aircross and is based on the heavily localized C-Cubed architecture that is also expected to spawn a Jeep derivative in the future.

Citroen C3 styling

The India-spec Citroen C3 Aircross will be significantly different from the European version, as these images suggest. The geometric styling remains and seems to have been heavily influenced by that of the C5 Aircross. So there is a similar split headlamp setup with the integrated chevrons but with the new 'X' LED lighting motifs seen on cars like the C4. The Citroen C3 features a large rectangular grille and an intricately stylised air dam below it with silver and orange highlights.

In profile, the sub-four-metre length is quite apparent and there is that slightly upright look and the straight C-pillar that is quite common in the brand's cars. The Airbumps make an appearance here as well while there are dual-tone alloy wheels as well. The rear looks fairly simple with a rounded boot lid, compact LEd highlighted taillamps and a silver skid plate on the bumpers.

Citroen C3 engines, platform

The Citroen C3 is expected to be based on a heavily localized architecture, possibly a development of Groupe PSA's (now Stellantis) PF1 platform. There will be no diesel engine options in this segment from Citroen but the Puretech 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol can be expected with around 110PS and 205 Nm. This should pair with a six-speed manual or the EAT6 six-speed torque converter automatic. Lower-spec versions might even get the N/A 83PS version of this engine.

Citroen C3 features

The interiors of the upcoming Citroen C3 haven't been seen yet, but they should carry the slightly quirky layered dashboard and the deep-set instrumentation and 8-inch infotainment from the C5 Aircross. Some form of Citroen's specially padded seats and the hydraulic bump stops on the suspension should be seen here as well. Other features should be in line with the segment with a sunroof, some form of connected-car tech, climate c0ntrol, LED lighting etc.

Citroen C3 India launch date, expected pricing

The model will make its global debut in September before going on sale later in the year in India and elsewhere. This will be followed by more offerings around the same architecture. As for pricing, the Citroen C3 can be expected to compete at the premium end of the sub-four-meter SUV segment and compete very closely with the Kia Sonet and Hyundai Venue with prices ranging between Rs 8 to 14 lakh ex-showroom.

Also read,

Stellantis appoints new brand heads for Citroen and Jeep in India

Citroen C5 Aircross home deliveries begin through online sales portal

Spec comparison: Citroen C5 Aircross vs Jeep Compass vs Hyundai Tucson vs Toyota Fortuner vs Ford Endeavour

India-spec 2021 Citroen C5 Aircross road test review

Citroen C3 2022 Full Spec

Price (Ex-Delhi)
Starts Rs 5.71 Lakhs

Displacement
1198cc

Transmission
Manual

Max Power(ps)
82

Max Torque(Nm)
115

Mileage
19.8 Kmpl