Citroën C3 Aircross, the French answer to a growing segment
The crossover segment has been populated with a variety of German, Korean, Japanese and even Italian vehicles, now though the French is bringing some flair in the form of a Citroën C3 Aircross.
While I was left impressed after my brief moment with the vehicle at the local media launch, I was eager to find out what it was like to live with, even for just a week and snatched the keys from under Justin’s nose.
The exterior flair
Recently I reported that Citroën and Peugeot are back on the offensive and launched a variety of vehicles to the local market. While Peugeot is more likely to appeal to a more mature and serious car buyer in terms of styling, the new range and even more so, the C3 Aircross will appeal to a younger and spirited customer. The first elements to draw your attention to the exterior are the touches of colour on the headlight surrounds, roof bars and the “Venetian blind” on the rear quarter. The Aircross is also noticeably higher off the ground with a 178m ground clearance, 20mm more than the C3 it is based on.
The headlamps and fog-lamps share the same housing which is situated below the LED daytime running lights. The taillights also feature a 3D effect which adds to the modern exterior look. The C3 we piloted came in Shine guise which meant that in all four corners there were diamond-cut 17-inch alloy wheels. All these details add up to make for an attractive and unique looking car within the highly saturated segment.
Interior style
While the exterior features curvy proportions and swooping lines, the interior contrasts this with straight horizontal lines on the dashboard and denim-like fabric and coloured strip inlays on the seats. Up-front our Shine derivative came with the 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, compatible with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink. Entering and starting the vehicle is also made easy by the addition of keyless entry and start. What was really impressive for a car in this segment was the sliding 60/40 split rear bench.
The seats for both front occupants are also wider and forms part of Citroën Advanced Comfort programme. The boot offers a very impressive 410-litres which can be increased to 520-litres by sliding the rear seats forward or ultimately 1 289-litres with the seats folded down. Although hard plastics can be found around the cabin, it does not detract from the youthful design and quality fit and finish and stylish layout.
Under the bonnet
The C3 Aircross in Shine guise comes fitted with a 1.2-litre PureTech Turbo powertrain which is able to produce 81 kW and 205 N.m of torque. While the engine does not inspire any spirited driving, mated to the six-speed automatic gearbox it doesn’t lack in power when overtaking and returned a highly respectable 6.2L/100km during its week at our offices.
Verdict
French brands have struggled over the years to gain confidence in the local market and for one reason; parts availability. While this remains a big concern for local buyers, Citroën has announced that each vehicle that enters the local market will come with its very own parts basket which will be made available to your dealer when needed. This is a huge step into the right direction as after spending an extended amount of time with the frugal little crossover, it returned a very compliant ride quality and came very well specified in the Shine derivative. The C3 Aircross should certainly feature on your shopping list if you are looking in this segment.
Price
Citroën C3 Aircross 1.2T Shine – R 369 900
