Citroën has unveiled its European-spec C3 Aircross, an affordable compact crossover for several European markets. It is available in five or seven-seater versions, just like the C3 Aircross, which is on sale here in India. Naturally, there are many things in common between the two models, but at the same time, the European-spec C3 Aircross gets a few standout features. Here are the major differences between the two models.
Looks
The overall profile and roofline appear indistinguishable in pictures, but when you look at the details you'll find significant changes. Firstly, the European-spec model wears Citroen’s new logo on its grille.
The latter is also visibly different, as is the front bumper, which has many cuts and creases compared to the India-spec model. The headlights and the design of the alloy wheels have also been redesigned. The headlight design references the new three-point light signature first seen on the Oli EV concept. At the rear, there isn't much to differentiate between the two models except for the taillight and bumper design.
Engine options
The C3 Aircross sold here in India is powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine with 109 PS and 205 Nm. It can be had with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed torque converter automatic. As for the European-spec model, in addition to the traditional internal combustion engine, the car will also have a hybrid and electric motor. The hybrid version is equipped with an e-DCT automatic gearbox. The 48V system uses a 1.2-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine developed specifically for hybrid applications, producing 136 horsepower. It is mated to an electrified dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which incorporates a 28 HP electric motor powered by a 48-volt lithium-ion battery located under the floor.
Citroën offers an electric version of the five-seat C3 Aircross that will have a 44 kWh LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery. The brand claims to have a range of 300 kilometers on a full charge and a maximum speed of 145 kilometers per hour. In 2025, a version equipped with a different battery will be presented, which will increase the range to more than 400 km.
Features
One of the biggest drawbacks of the India-spec C3 Aircross is the limited number of features it offers, even in the most expensive variant. That's certainly not the case with the European model, which has a more modern cabin and a longer list of features.
The latter includes ADAS, wireless charging, a head-up display, automatic climate control, a nicer-looking, but narrower digital driver display and, of course, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The ADAS suite includes automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, speed sign recognition, high beam assist and blind spot detection.
