The much-anticipated Citroen C3 Aircross SUV is scheduled to make its global debut on April 27. This made-in-India B-SUV will be first introduced in India and will also go on sale in select international markets. Based on the CMP modular platform, the new SUV will come as an affordable alternative to the likes of the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos.
For people not in the know, Citroen is already selling a crossover with the C3 Aircross nameplate in select international markets including Europe. This second generation model is likely to replace the current C3 Aircross globally. The new model will sit above the C3 hatchback and is likely to measure around 4.2-4.3 meters in length.
The spy images reveal that the new Citroen C3 Aircross will come with a more SUV or rugged MPV-ish styling. The company has also released a teaser image of the new SUV. The teaser shows the split headlamp set-up with slim DRLs on top and main headlamp unit on the lower bumper. It features the signature grille (similar to the one offered on the C3 hatchback), new bumpers, higher ground clearance, plastic body cladding, wraparound taillamps and bigger wheels.
The cabin of the new Citroen C3 Aircross will come with a different layout compared to the smaller C3 hatchback. It will share the switchgears with the C3 hatchback; however, the dashboard layout and centre console will be completely different. It will get a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with more connectivity features, a semi-digital instrument console and multi-functional steering wheel.
Citroen is testing the new SUV in 3-row seating layout. We expect the new model to be offered with a 5 and 7-seat layout. The new model will be designed and developed on the CMP platform that underpins the C3 hatchback. However, it will be modified to accommodate a longer wheelbase and a longer SUV.
The new Citroen C3 Aircross will be offered with a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that produces 110bhp and 190Nm of torque. Both manual and automatic gearbox options are likely to be on offer. The new model will rival the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, VW Taigun 1.0 and the Skoda Kushaq 1.0.
