The Citroën C3 Aircross is a practical midsize SUV designed for Indian families. It focuses on space, comfort, flexibility, and now gets a proper automatic transmission along with more safety features. In a market dominated by Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Toyota Hyryder, the C3 Aircross tries to stand out with a smart blend of practicality and value.
What is the Citroën C3 Aircross?
The C3 Aircross SUV sits in the midsize segment and is available in 5-seat and 5+2 seat configurations. The removable third row in the 7-seater version is a rare feature in this category. It is powered by a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with either a 6-speed manual or a smooth 6-speed torque converter automatic.
Quick Specs – Citroën C3 Aircross India
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol |
| Power & Torque | 110 hp / 170 Nm (MT), 205 Nm (AT) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed manual or 6-speed torque converter automatic |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 18.5 km/l (MT), 17.6 km/l (AT) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4,323 x 1,796 x 1,669 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,671 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 200 mm |
| Boot Space | 444 L (5-seater) / 511 L (7-seater without third row) |
| Fuel Tank | 45 litres |
| Seating | 5 or 5+2 (removable third row) |
| Key Features | 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto & CarPlay, 7-inch digital cluster, rear AC vents |
| Safety | 6 airbags, ABS, EBD, hill hold, TPMS, ISOFIX |
Design and Road Presence
The Citroën C3 Aircross looks different from most SUVs in its class. The split headlamp design, bold Citroën chevron grille, and upright stance give it a distinctive personality. The 200 mm ground clearance makes it perfect for Indian road conditions, handling potholes and tall speed breakers without stress.
Its dimensions — 4,323 mm length, 1,796 mm width, and 1,669 mm height — place it firmly in the midsize SUV category. The long wheelbase of 2,671 mm not only improves stability but also frees up a lot of cabin space. Dual-tone paint options and roof rails add to the visual appeal.
Cabin Space and Comfort
Space is the biggest strength of the C3 Aircross SUV. The second row is roomy enough for three adults, and the high roofline adds to the airy feel. In the 5+2 model, the third row is best for children or short trips but can be removed to free up boot space.
Boot capacity is 444 litres in the 5-seater and up to 511 litres in the 7-seater when the third row is removed. The seats are supportive, and the flat floor in the second row improves comfort during long drives.
The dashboard layout is clean and functional, with a focus on practicality. Plastic quality is average but acceptable for this price point. Multiple storage compartments make it family-friendly.
Features and Technology
The Citroën C3 Aircross comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The 7-inch digital driver display looks modern, and rear AC vents keep the back passengers comfortable in hot weather.
Safety has improved in recent updates, with six airbags now standard across the range. Other safety features include ABS with EBD, hill hold assist, tyre pressure monitoring, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. While the India-spec model does not have a Bharat NCAP crash test rating yet, the added airbags make it safer than older global versions.
Also Read Maruti Suzuki Fronx 2025 – Stylish Compact SUV with Premium Features for Indian Roads
Engine, Mileage and Performance
The 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine produces 110 hp and 170 Nm of torque with the manual gearbox, while the automatic version gets 205 Nm for better low-speed response. The 6-speed torque converter automatic is smooth and well-suited for city driving.
Mileage is rated at 18.5 km/l for the manual and 17.6 km/l for the automatic (ARAI-certified). In real-world Indian traffic, expect around 12–15 km/l depending on driving style and road conditions.
Ride quality is a highlight — the suspension is tuned for comfort and stability, making it ideal for highways and rural roads alike. Steering is light for city use and stable at higher speeds.
Citroën C3 Aircross Variants and Price (August 2025)
The C3 Aircross starts at around ₹8.62 lakh (ex-showroom) for base manual variants and goes up to ₹14.6 lakh for top trims, including the automatic and 7-seat versions.
Pros of the Citroën C3 Aircross
- Excellent cabin space and flexible 5+2 seating
- Very comfortable ride quality on Indian roads
- Smooth and city-friendly automatic gearbox
- High ground clearance for bad roads
- Competitive pricing for the size and space offered
Cons of the Citroën C3 Aircross
- Interior plastics feel basic
- Third row only suitable for short trips
- No Bharat NCAP safety rating yet
FAQs on Citroën C3 Aircross
Is the Citroën C3 Aircross good for city traffic?
Yes, especially the automatic version, which is smooth and easy to drive in stop-go traffic.
What is the real mileage?
Expect 12–15 km/l in daily use, depending on driving style and conditions.
Is the 7-seater version worth it?
Yes, if you occasionally need extra seats for children or guests. You can remove the third row for more boot space when not needed.
How does it compare to rivals like the Hyundai Creta or Maruti Grand Vitara?
The C3 Aircross beats most rivals in cabin space and ride comfort but lacks some premium features like a panoramic sunroof and ventilated seats.
What are the colour options?
It comes in multiple monotone and dual-tone options with contrasting roof colours for a more stylish look.
Verdict – Should You Buy the Citroën C3 Aircross in 2025?
If your priorities are space, comfort, and family practicality, the Citroën C3 Aircross makes a strong case. It is not the most feature-loaded SUV in the segment, but it is one of the most spacious and comfortable to travel in. The recent addition of a proper automatic and six airbags improves its appeal.
For buyers who want an affordable midsize SUV with 7-seat flexibility, this is one of the best options in the market. Take a test drive, try out the removable third row, and see if it fits your lifestyle.
