19 June 2024 24/12 CITROËN REVEALS NEW C3 AIRCROSS COMPACT SUV
- Citroën unveils New C3 Aircross, the compact SUV that is stylish, smart, functional and affordable for families and everyone with an active lifestyle.
- New C3 Aircross has been completely reinvented: new technical platform, robust and assertive SUV style, and Citroën's new desing language.
- New model features Citroën Advanced Comfort® suspension, C-Zen Lounge architecture with Head-Up Display and connectivity systems.
- At 4.39m, it offers both driving comfort and a generously proportioned passenger space with up to seven seats – a first in this segment
- New C3 Aircross offers a practical hybrid version for the first time, alongside an all-electric version (on the five-seater versions) and an accessible petrol version.
Citroën has unveiled the completely reinvented C3 Aircross. This brand-new model shares the 'Smart Car' platform with the recent C3, leading to a competitive price and features Citroën’s new brand identity. A genuine SUV, it offers protection, robustness, easy access and a feeling of safety, along with assertive, muscular and modern styling. The New C3 Aircross's stature and dimensions have changed along with its new positioning. At 4.39 metres in length, the five-seater version offers the best interior space in its segment in row two. Citroën is also offering a brand new seven-seater, a first for the segment.
Spacious and well-equipped, New C3 Aircross offers easy and comfortable daily driving, both in town and on the road. New C3 Aircross features the C-Zen-Lounge® concept with a Head-Up Display and a compact steering wheel, along with new Citroën Advanced Comfort® seats redesigned for optimum support. Ride comfort is enhanced thanks to the adoption of the Citroën Advanced Comfort® suspension with dual progressive hydraulic bump stops – for the first time and on all versions. For greater peace of mind, C3 Aircross offers all the driving assistance technologies you would expect in this segment, along with a latest-generation infotainment system incorporating a 10.25-inch touch screen.
Alongside a petrol engine, the New C3 Aircross will offer two electrified versions: a Hybrid 136 48V powertrain, and a full electric version. With a range of more than 186 miles (WLTP certification pending), the electric version makes everyday life much easier. It can recharge from 20% to 80% in just 26 minutes and uses the ë-ROUTES application, a journey planner that adapts to changes on the road in real-time. A version with a range of over 250 miles will be available in 2025.
Reinterpreting Citroën's new visual identity
With an assertive, graphic design underpinned by wide fascias,New C3 Aircross is all SUV. The front fascias feature vertical colour clips that customers can change at will, and the front-end design incorporates the new logo unveiled on the Oli concept car in 2021, and recently adopted by ë-C3 and C3 hatchback.
The headlamp design references the new three-point light signature inaugurated on the Oli. The SUV feel comes through loud and clear on the high, horizontal bonnet and the front’s vertical lines. With a width of 1.79 metres, the design brings muscularity and strength to the front wings, which cover the large 690 mm wheels. The wheel arch guards are inspired by the square-round design concept introduced on ë-C3 and C3 hatchback. Subtle edge lines liven up the sides of the car.
A straight roof and height of 1.66 m provide generous onboard space for all passengers. Over 200 mm of ground clearance offers greater protection and a higher and safer driving position. The long rear window, supplies plenty of light onboard, and the rear fascia features a customisable colour-clip, echoing the one on the bumper. The rear wing reinforces the muscular feel of the front and introduces the signature rear lights.
The lights continue the styling theme inaugurated on the Oli concept and ë-C3 and C3 hatchback, while the rear quarter panel reinforces C3 Aircross’s robust appearance. The bi-tone finish, available as standard on the MAX level in white or black - makes customisation easy. Incorporating the same black band and new logo as the front of the car, the wide tailgate features a cutaway design with a low load sill, for easy access to the boot.
A SPACIOUS COMPACT SUV THAT CAN SEAT UP TO SEVEN
New dimensions for more space and practicality
Just 4.39m long, New C3 Aircross handles smoothly. The wheelbase of 2.67 m offers maximum space on board. The five-seater version delivers record space in row two and a 460-litre boot. For customers seeking even greater versatility, C3 Aircross is also available as a super functional seven-seater on combustion versions.
New C3 Aircross is available in five and seven seat versions, with identical body shapes and exterior dimensions, allowing customers to choose the version that matches their needs and desires. The 2.67 m wheelbase, the most generous in the category, allows for unprecedented rear door length, providing excellent access to row two for the five-seater version and row three for the seven-seater version.
The seven-seater version: clever and versatile
Citroën is offering an unprecedented seven-seater version of New C3 Aircross. The design of the rear quarter panel creates a dynamic, vertical stern, providing ample space for the third-row passengers. A large rear door and the easy-tilt seat backs in row two (40/60) facilitate access to this third row, which features two comfortable and retractable extra seats. Available whenever necessary, they consist of a seat and two backrests that can be folded 50/50, providing a flat load surface when not deployed.
In its seven-seat version, C3 Aircross offers the same knee-to-knee length in row two as C3 hatchback, elbow width that is 25 mm wider than the category average, and generous headroom. The third-row space is equipped to the same standard as the other seats, with headrests, armrests, cupholders, a USB socket, a footwell and air conditioning. The new seven-seat version of C3 Aircross perfectly balances a compact exterior with interior space. With all seats deployed, the boot volume is 40 litres, and 330 litres in the five-seat configuration.
The five-seater version: segment-leading interior space
The five-seater version of C3 Aircross has a 40/60 bench seat that is 65 mm further back than on the seven-seater version. The result is very generous space in row two, with the best knee room in the category (+80 mm compared with the segment average). The three occupants of the bench seat also enjoy the best elbow room on the market (+25 mm compared with the segment average). The bench’s 65 mm recline doesn't detract from the 460 litres of boot space, one of the best in the segment.
Easy to access, with a low, square threshold, the boot also has a two-position floor, providing a completely flat load surface when the backrests of the 40/60 rear seat are folded. In this configuration, it offers an impressive 1,600 litres of volume. With no shortage of tricks up its sleeve, C3 Aircross has the flexibility to make daily life easier for all the family. Practical, versatile and reassuring, it remains compact enough to make city driving stress free.
AN AFFORDABLE MULTI-ENERGY RANGE
The hybrid: a petrol engine with access to electrification
New C3 Aircross showcases a new powertrain, with its Hybrid 136 version equipped with an e-DCS automatic gearbox. The 48V hybrid uses a new-generation 1.2 petrol engine developed specifically for the hybrid, featuring 40% new components. With a displacement of 1,199 cm3, the 3-cylinder engine develops 100 kW/136 bhp. It has a variable geometry turbocharger and a timing chain that contributes to its robustness. The Miller-cycle engine is combined with an e-DCS electrified dual-clutch automatic transmission, incorporating a 21 kW/28 bhp electric motor powered by a 48V lithium-ion battery housed under the floor.
The powertrain is easy to use and requires no recharging. Ideal for families, it reduces both fuel consumption and emissions, making it good for the wallet and the planet. The e-motor (permanent magnet synchronous machine) assists the internal combustion engine to reduce fuel consumption in a transparent way, allowing 100% electric driving for almost 50% of urban use and recharging the battery during deceleration. This new transmission is produced in France and offers the optimum combination in terms of size and cost. As a result, the C02 emissions of the hybrid version have been reduced to just 121g CO2/km.
Alongside this electrified powertrain, Citroën is deploying C3 Aircross with a 75 kW/100 bhp turbo petrol powertrain. This 1.2 litre 3-cylinder PureTech 100 engine is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, and complies with Euro7 standards.
Citroën's first all-electric compact SUV
For the first time in the family compact SUV segment, Citroën is offering an electric version of its five-seater C3 Aircross. Perfectly suited to the driving habits of customers in this segment, the electric version is powered by an 83 kW/113 hp engine combined with a 44 kWh LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery. This technology offers the perfect balance between the performance required (range of more than 186 miles – WLTP approval pending) and a highly affordable price. Its engine and fully automatic transmission offer linear acceleration with immediately available torque, and a top speed of 84 mph. The 100% electric version of C3 Aircross offers sufficient performance to slot into everyday traffic with ease.
The all-electric C3 Aircross makes life easier for its users, particularly when it comes to recharging. The Mode 3 cable – supplied as standard – enables charging both at home and in public places. Fast AC charging from 20% to 80% of the battery takes around 4 hours 10 minutes using 7 kW of power and 2 hours 50 minutes using 11 kW of power. Rapid DC charging is also available with 100 kW chargers, taking just 26 minutes to go from 20% to 80% charge. A version equipped with a different battery will be offered in 2025, extending the range to over 250 miles
The new e-ROUTES application – developed for Citroën electric vehicles – makes it easy to plan your journeys, monitor battery charge levels in real time, and enjoy a complete navigation experience. The app helps to reduce journey times, and pinpoints the best recharging stops. Constantly connected to the vehicle's data, the traffic situation and the status of the recharging points along the selected route, it ensures the most efficient route management
COMFORT AND PEACE OF MIND
Full of space and light, C3 Aircross offers all the features of a living room on wheels. Its raised driving position and high ground clearance make it easier to get in and out, while providing a clearer view of the road ahead. The feeling of comfort is paramount, delivered by the exclusive Citroën Advanced Comfort® suspension, the C-Zen Lounge concept – which combines a reassuring dashboard with the new head-up vision system – and Citroën Advanced Comfort® seats.
Citroën Advanced Comfort® suspension and seats
Citroën Advanced Comfort® suspension rethinks the two basic functions of a suspension system: ensuring optimum contact between the wheels and the road surface, and defining a perfect level of comfort for the passengers. A conventional suspension uses a spring and hydraulic damper to manage these two functions. The spring absorbs bumps in the road, while the shock absorber supports the spring in its relaxation phase after an impact. A stop at the top of the shock absorber eases the compression of the spring over its last few centimetres. This stop protects the vehicle’s mechanical components but does not totally dissipate the energy.
Citroën’s engineers have completely rethought this architecture, creating a patented system of progressive hydraulic bumpers. Unlike a mechanical stop in a conventional shock absorber, which absorbs energy and reduces comfort by releasing some of it in the form of a shock, the progressive hydraulic stop absorbs and dissipates this energy. The "magic carpet" effect so important to Citroën is felt clearly, enhancing the driving experience on board C3 Aircross.
New C3 Aircross also features new Advanced Comfort® seats. Equipped with a new seat surface that includes an extra 10 to 15 mm of foam, they feature redesigned lateral support to ensure comfort whatever the distance.
C-Zen Lounge: a new architecture for increased peace of mind
New C3 Aircross inherits the work carried out on New ë-C3 and C3 hatchback. Citroën C-Zen Lounge’s modern, spacious and well-equipped cabin is featured with new materials and colours.
The horizontal dashboard, complete with characteristic Citroën vertical air vents, is divided into two levels, technical elements on top and comfort at the bottom. Known as the Sofa Design, this area is covered in a special fabric and embellished at both ends with new zones of warm light, adding to the feeling of well-being.
Essential driving information is cleverly projected onto a head-up display. The small multifunction steering wheel, adjustable for height and angle, is easy to handle. The information display at the junction between the dashboard and the bottom of the windscreen is a first for a family SUV. This innovative feature eliminates the need for a dual display, giving the driver all the information they need without taking their eyes off the road.
A CONNECTED, WELL-EQUIPPED FAMILY SUV
Whatever powertrain you choose, New C3 Aircross breaks new ground with its combination of design, space, on-board comfort and equipment, all at an ultra-competitive price.
A connected SUV
Both versions of C3 Aircross feature a 10.25-inch colour infotainment screen, oriented slightly towards the driver. It uses a widget architecture inspired by smartphones. Virtual shortcuts provide access to the main telephone, radio, application and media functions, and on MAX versions, navigation. A wireless WiFi function enables smartphone mirroring and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. On-board comfort is also enhanced by the presence of two USB-C sockets at the front and two more in row two. A 15W charging mat is integrated into a dedicated storage space in the centre console on MAX versions.
Making everyday life easier and safer
The driving aid technology does not only improve the comfort and safety of the driver, everybody onboard gets the benefits, along with pedestrians too.
Active Safety Brake: This is an emergency braking system that helps reduce injuries to passengers, pedestrians and cyclists. It operates day and night, from a speed of 3 mph up to C3 Aircross's top speed of 84 mph.
Active Lane Keeping Assist: This lane-keeping assistance system helps the driver to maintain the correct distance from the lane markings. It is active from 37 mph. When the car starts to drift out of its lane, this mode automatically takes corrective action.
Driver Alert: This system detects oscillations on C3 Aircross, anticipating drowsiness on the part of the driver. Once detected, it emits a visual and audible warning. If the situation persists, the system emits a longer audible warning and maintains the visual warning for 10 seconds.
Speed sign recognition: This speed limit information system reads the signs and displays the speed in the driver's field of vision, on the Head Up Display at the base of the windscreen. The driver is thus informed if a new speed limit is detected, or if they are exceeding the speed limit. This intelligent system also uses the speed limit data contained in the navigation system. The audible warnings can be activated or deactivated via the dashboard.
Front and rear parking sensors: The front and rear park-assist sensors collect data during maneuvers and warn the driver of approaching obstacles, using an audible warning and visual indications. The rear parking sensors are active as soon as reverse gear is engaged.
Blind spot detection: It uses an illuminated pictogram in the rear-view mirrors to indicate the presence of a vehicle in the blind spot. The system works on the same principle as parking sensors and genuinely adds to safety. It is active from 19 mph.
Reversing camera: When reverse gear is engaged, the camera on the base of the tailgate supplies a view to the rear of the vehicle on the main screen. This view features grids of different colours to help the driver identify the distance between obstacles and the vehicle, and warn of possible collisions.
Range: tailor-made for everyone
New C3 Aircross range is embodied in two silhouettes that are identical in their design and dimensions: a five-seater available in petrol, hybrid, and electric, and a seven-seater available in petrol and hybrid. C3 Aircross benefits from a palette of six strong shades: Perla Nera Black, Mercury Grey, Elixir Red, Monte Carlo Blue, Polar White and Montana Green, paired with the two available roof colours, white and black. It can be personalised using colour clips in three different colours, each coordinated with the body colour. Citroën will offer additional colour clips as accessories, in the form of kits of four pieces, for more extensive customisation.
The streamlining of New C3 Aircross’ range goes hand in hand with rich equipment at the first trim level, PLUS. This comes standard with Citroën Advanced Comfort® suspension, six airbags, automatic air conditioning, 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone mirroring, active safety braking, active lane departure warning system, driver attention alert, cruise control with speed limiter, recognition of speed limit signs, rear parking sensors and rear parking camera, automatic lighting, Advanced Comfort Seats, electric front and rear windows, 40/60 folding rear seat, LED headlights and daytime running lights, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
The second level, MAX, additionally offers 3D LED rear lights, a white or black bi-tone roof depending on the body colour, 3D navigation, wireless smartphone charging, exterior mirrors with blind-spot detection, front parking sensors, electrochrome interior mirror, and a winter pack comprising of heated seats, heated steering wheel and heated windscreen.
New Citroën C3 and ë-C3 Aircross will go on sale in the autumn in the UK with first customer deliveries by the end of the year.
ENDS
