The first locally-developed Groupe PSA product – the Citroen C3 Sporty sub-4 meter SUV is scheduled to be launched in India in the second half of 2021. The compact SUV has been spotted testing for the first time in Pune, Maharashtra.
The spotted model was heavily camouflaged, which shows that it is an early development prototype. Codenamed C21, the upcoming Citroen C3 Sporty is likely to feature a quirky design inspired by bigger and modern Citroen SUVs. The SUV could feature split headlamp unit with main headlight unit positioned on the front bumper and slim LED daytime running lights on top.
The new Citroen C3 Sporty spy images also reveal that it will have coupe-like roofline, which we have already seen on the Citroen C5 Aircross. The new model has been designed exclusively for emerging markets including India and Brazil. It is visible that the new model will have wide C pillars and rounded base.
The Citroen C21 compact SUV gets flat hood, which blends with the typical Citroen grille, massive front bumper and others. The new model will be designed and developed on the simplified version of the modular CMP (Common Modular Platform) platform, which also underpins the Peugeot 208. The platform will be modified to reduce the cost of the production and product development.
If media reports are to be believed, the upcoming Citroen C21 will be offered with multiple engine options including 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.2L turbocharged petrol and a 130bhp, 1.5L diesel. A 6-speed manual gearbox will drive the power to the front wheels will come as standard, while an AT gearbox will join the line-up on a later stage. In India, the compact SUV will rival the likes of the Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, Ford EcoSport and others.
It is also expected that the new compact SUV could also receive an electric derivative, which is likely to offer an output of 134bhp and 260Nm. It could feature a 50 kWh battery, which could offer a claimed maximum range of 330km.
