Citroën publishes the first official images of the new C3 Aircross B-segment SUV to sit alongside its bigger C5 Aircross sibling that debuted at the Shanghai auto show.
Inspired by the C-Aircross Concept presented at this year’s Geneva auto show, the new C3 Aircross enjoys compact dimensions at 163 ins. (4,140 mm) long, 69 ins. (1,760 mm) wide and 64.5 ins. (1,640 mm) high with a wheelbase of 102 ins. (2,600 mm).
Exterior styling sticks closely to the brand’s current design language with all the benefits of a robust SUV, including raised ground clearance, an elevated driving position, front and rear skid plates, large wheels and wheel arch extensions.
It offers plenty of personalization options with up to 90 exterior color combinations, including four roof colors for 2-tone models and four “Color Packs,” plus five distinctive interior-design schemes.
Citroën claims class-leading interior space in both headroom and legroom, split and sliding rear seats, a fold-flat front passenger seat for a load length of up to 94.5 ins. (2,400 mm) and a trunk volume of 14.5 cu.-ft. (410 L) increasing to 18.4 cu.-ft. (520 L). With the rear bench seat adjusted forward, or folded flat, 45.5 cu.-ft. (1,289 L) of cargo space is created.
It also boasts an opening panoramic glass sunroof and various storage spaces, including a wireless smartphone-charging area in the center console. It also is available with a complete range of driver-assistance systems such as color head-up display, active safety brake, intelligent-beam headlights and speed-sign recognition and recommendation, as well as technologies including park assist and Citroën Connect Nav.
The C3 Aircross promises dirt-road capability with 3-mode selectable Grip Control for improved traction and the choice of 16- or 17-in. mud-and-snow tires. It also comes with hill-descent assist that maintains the car at a reduced speed on the steep inclines.
Powertrains include Citroën’s PureTech 3-cyl. gasoline engines in 82-, 110- and 130-hp configurations, while diesel options are the 120-hp BlueHDi and 100-hp S&S powerplants.
“Bringing together all of Citroën’s expertise in cabin space, modular design and comfort, this people-minded SUV stands out in the B SUV-segment with its unique body styling,” CEO Chairman Linda Jackson says. “It has a different mindset, a source of protection and adventure, consistent with the expectations of customers today.”
The new Citroën C3 Aircross is slated to launch in Europe before year-end.
