In a market burgeoning with compact SUVs, the newest entrant is the Citroen C3 Aircross. The Citroen C3 Aircross has been launched in India with prices ranging from Rs 9.99 lakh to Rs 12.34 lakh (both ex-showroom), positioning it to compete fiercely with rivals​.

At the heart of the C3 Aircross lies Citroen’s globally acclaimed 1.2-litre Gen-3 Turbo PureTech petrol engine, churning out a maximum power of 110PS and a peak torque of 190Nm​. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, with an ARAI-certified mileage of 18.5 kmpl. While initially lacking an automatic transmission variant at launch, a 6-speed automatic transmission variant was introduced in the Indonesian market, hinting at the possibility of a similar variant making its way to Indian shores in the near future​.

Stepping inside the C3 Aircross, one is greeted by a contemporary interior echoing a design akin to its sibling, the C3 hatchback, yet with distinct upgrades. A full-colour LCD digital instrument cluster now accompanies the driver along with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and telematics, enriching the driving experience with seamless connectivity​.

The SUV offers a seating arrangement for up to seven passengers, albeit with the 3rd-row seats being more suited for children. The vehicle includes roof-mounted AC vents and USB charging ports, adding to the comfort of the passengers. The 50:50 split-folding 3rd-row seats provide a modicum of flexibility in managing space, albeit at the cost of a substantially reduced boot space when all seats are upright​.

Safety, a paramount concern for any vehicle, is addressed in the C3 Aircross with features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Hill Assist, Central Locking, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. Additionally, the SUV is equipped with two airbags, providing a layer of passive safety to the occupants​.

On the downside, the absence of side and curtain airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, sunroof, climate control, wireless charging, cruise control, and rear AC vents at launch seemed like big misses. Although this could change with the introduction of higher-spec variants in the future​.

The C3 Aircross rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels and features LED DRLs, halogen-based headlights, roof rails, and power-adjustable ORVMs among other features.