Citroen C3 Aircross vs Citroen C3: What's Different?

For the Indian market, Citroen has unveiled the new C3 Aircross SUV. It is built on the same CMP modular platform that supports the Citroen C3 and the Jeep Fiat, two other Stellantis vehicles. The C3 Aircross has larger dimensions, but its exterior and interior design are largely identical to those of the C3. The maker claims that it was designed and engineered in the nation. It signifies the brand's entry into the fiercely competitive compact SUV market in India. The car will compete with B-segment SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara when it launches in India. Two different seating arrangements are available on the Aircross' three rows of seats: a standard 5-seat arrangement and a 7-seat arrangement (5+2). While it was already known that the SUV would be based on the C3 hatchback and have the same platform, the two vehicles have more in common than you might think. We bring you a detailed list of all the similarities and differences between the two current offerings in the French carmaker's Indian lineup.  

Also Read: Citroen C3 Aircross SUV Unveiled in India: A Closer Look

Citroen C3 Aircross vs Citroen C3: The Similarities

The Aircross has a profile that resembles a stretched-out, extended version of the C3 hatchback. The two Citroens share the same upright stance, roof rails, side sill plastic cladding, and sharply raked A-pillar. Overall, there are quite a few styling cues that the two Citroens have in common. The C3, along with the rest of the car, heavily influenced the C3 Aircross's rear. Although the SUV's boxy taillights are connected by a black strip instead of a similar black strip, this feature is the only one of its kind in the manufacturer's Indian portfolio.

As you enter the cabin, you'll notice more styling similarities, particularly with the dashboard, air vents, and central console designs that are the same on both vehicles. Not only do the C3 and the C3 Aircross share similar styling, but they also have nearly identical interior features. Both receive a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, steering-mounted audio controls and automatically folding rearview mirrors. With dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors, their safety package is also comparable. It is important to note that the entire feature set for the C3 Aircross is still under wraps and will likely be disclosed when Citroen introduces the vehicle soon.

Citroen C3 Aircross vs Citroen C3: What's Different?

Citroen has revealed two details about the C3 Aircross, including its length and ground clearance, both of which measure 4,300mm and 200mm, respectively. In contrast, the C3 has a 4,300mm length and a 180mm ground clearance. We anticipate the C3 Aircross to be taller (due to the bigger wheels), and the images also suggest a wider footprint. The C3 has a 315-litre boot capacity, compared to the 511-litre boot capacity of the C3 Aircross, which has 5 seats.

The C3 Aircross's front end closely resembles that of the C3 hatchback, but it has a more masculine appearance thanks to flared fenders and a heavier bumper. In contrast to the hatchback, the SUV's fog lamps are integrated into the lower grille rather than having separate surrounds. While the C3 Aircross rides on 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, the C3 rides on 15-inch alloy wheels. Additionally, Citroen has updated the bumper with a distinct dual-tone skid-plate design that differs from the C3. 

Also Read: 2023 Citroen C3 Aircross Walkaround | Does it work as a 7-seater | autoX

The C3 Aircross does receive a tastefully done black-beige interior colour scheme, which looks more premium visually even though the interiors on both models are nearly identical. The changes are even more noticeable in the second row where there are roof-mounted AC vents with a speed control knob. If you choose the 5+2 configuration, a third row of seats is also available and can be removed entirely when not required. Although the feature list on both models is the same, compared to the C3 hatchback, the SUV does come with roof-mounted rear AC vents and a 7-inch fully digital driver's display. 

Two petrol engines are available for Citroen's C3 hatchback: a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated unit with 81bhp/115Nm and a 1.2-litre turbocharged engine with 108bhp/190Nm. The latter has a 6-speed MT, whereas the former has a 5-speed MT. On the other hand, the Aircross SUV will only receive the C3's turbo-petrol engine and the same manual gearbox. The C3 Aircross is anticipated to receive an automatic gearbox option down the road, just like the hatchback. Despite this, there are only a few factors that separate the two cars, with the C3 Aircross serving as the affordable option for those seeking practicality.