Toyota Rumion vs Citroen C3 Aircross: Which is the Best Family SUV in India?

Until now, if you sought a spacious three-row vehicle for your family, your most likely option would be the Toyota Innova Crysta. But if budget was at a premium, you would go for either the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga or one of its many avatars, like the Toyota Rumion. However, now the Citroen C3 Aircross – an SUV with three rows of seating available in the same price bracket as the Rumion – has entered the scene. Given that it offers the appeal of an SUV and the practicality of an MPV, the need for even considering other options seems redundant, doesn’t it? So, has Citroen made a slam dunk with their latest offering, or are the conventional budget-oriented MPVs still relevant? We compare the Rumion and the C3 Aircross to find out!

Toyota Rumion vs Citroen C3 Aircross: Battle of Body Styles

Now, I am of the opinion that comparing designs is not a very productive endeavour, for any outcome of such a comparison will be, more often than not, influenced by subjective preferences. However, that is not the case here. The fact that the Rumion is an MPV and the C3 Aircross is an SUV makes their difference in terms of appearance as clear as a freshly cut diamond. The Rumion – based on the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, which is an old vehicle – exudes a simplistic design. It is longer and taller than the C3 and even has a longer wheelbase, all of which translates into more room inside – which I will elaborate on later.

The C3 Aircross, on the other hand, has a more modern and captivating design. Its SUV stance, combined with the split LED DRLs and large 17-inch alloy wheels, makes for a stunning package. Additionally, the C3 is also available in a wide range of colour options, including dual-tone shades, while the Rumion’s colour options, aside from blue, may seem a bit bland. So, if you are looking to add a head-turner in your garage, the C3 Aircorss is the obvious choice.

Toyota Rumion vs Citroen C3 Aircross: Space-age Tech?

Comparing the dashboards of both vehicles made me wish I could blend certain elements from both to create an ideal unit. The Citroen’s design is undeniably more modern, but it’s marred by visible hard plastics, particularly noticeable in the climate control dials. Surprisingly, the C3 doesn’t come with automatic AC, which is rather puzzling. On the other hand, the Rumion not only gets auto AC but also cooled cup holders in the first row. While its beige colour scheme may look dated, it exudes better build quality. Despite the fact that its fabric-wrapped seats are reminiscent of days gone by, they are actually more comfortable than those of the C3.

The Citroen, however, does have features that give it an edge, for instance, USB Type-A ports in the second and third rows – definitely a better option than the Rumion’s antiquated 12V sockets. The C3’s seats, while not as comfortable, are likely easier to clean. Citroen has also equipped it with a bigger 10.2-inch touchscreen, unlike the Rumion’s 7-inch unit, and a fully digital instrument cluster, both of which are quite user-friendly.

Overall, it is difficult to pick a clear winner in this department, as both vehicles come with their own compromises. That said, personally, I would prefer the C3, owing to its newer feature set.

Toyota Rumion vs Citroen C3 Aircross: Comfortable Cruising

In this area, the larger dimensions of the Rumion work in its favour, making it the better choice between the two.

Regardless of the row you choose to sit in, you’ll find that the Rumion offers more space than the C3 Aircross, which is especially evident in the third row. While neither vehicle offers enough space in the third row to promise comfort for adults during long journeys, the C3 Aircross makes the experience downright uncomfortable. Given the limited adjustability of the second-row seats, there is virtually no legroom in the C3’s third row. As I sat in the third row, there was no underthigh support and my knees were pointing towards the sky. And that, was not comfortable at all.

Now, while the Rumion offers a better ride quality for occupants in the first two rows, I found that for third-row occupants, it’s the C3 that offers a smoother ride.

Additionally, the C3 even comes with a one-touch tumble seat in the middle for easier access to the last row. However, considering the Rumion’s softer seats, a more spacious cabin, and better ride quality, it indeed emerges as the preferable choice for taking long trips with your friends and family.

Toyota Rumion vs Citroen C3 Aircross: Cargo Bay Cantrips

Boot space is indeed a crucial consideration – some might even say that it’s as crucial as the space for occupants. And in this regard, the Rumion has a clear advantage. With all three rows up, it offers a generous 209 litres compared to the C3’s 44 litres. However, when the last row of seats is folded down, things become somewhat evenly matched in terms of practicality.

Also Read: Toyota Rumion vs Maruti Suzuki Ertiga Spec Comparison, Which One You Should Buy?

An interesting feature of the C3 Aircross is that it gives you the option of completely removing the third row. This feature allows you to put the seats backwards and use them as makeshift seating for enjoying the view with the boot open when parked in front of a picturesque landscape. Similarly, you can fold the seats down when needed, for instance, during a picnic. So, while the Rumion is a clear winner in terms of sheer boot space, Citroen indeed deserves credit for their innovative thinking in terms of the rear seats, providing users with creative options for different scenarios.

Toyota Rumion vs Citroen C3 Aircross: Propulsion Prowess

The Toyota Rumion is powered by the same 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine found in vehicles like the Ertiga and XL6. While it may not be the most powerful engine, it gets the job done efficiently. The C3 Aircross, on the other hand, gets a spirited 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol unit, which offers slightly more power and significantly more torque. This difference becomes evident when you step on the accelerator. The C3’s engine is mid-range friendly and allows you to confidently make great overtaking manoeuvres.

What the Rumion lacks in raw power, it makes up for in refinement. Thanks to its four-cylinder engine, it offers smoother operation compared to the C3’s three-cylinder unit. Don’t get me wrong, the C3 is impressively smooth for a three-pot motor, but the Rumion is just better. This becomes especially noticeable on the highway, where the Rumion feels less stressed even at triple-digit speeds.

Also Read: 2024 Citroen C3 Aircross Unveiled in Europe; to Get ICE, Hybrid and Electric Powertrain Options

Furthermore, the Rumion’s 5-speed manual is easier to work with compared to the 6-speed unit of the C3 Aircross. The latter’s heavy clutch has a tendency to bounce back too eagerly, which means that you have to be very deliberate with your shifts to avoid jerky movements. The Rumion throws no such tantrums and seems happy to go through gears smoothly, with minimal resistance.

If you want a driver’s car, the C3 Aircross is hands down the superior choice. Its engine is well complemented by a responsive steering wheel, which feels light at parking speeds but weighs up progressively as you pick up speed. The suspension setup also instils more confidence, enhancing the overall driving experience. On the other hand, if you prefer smooth operation and a refined experience, the Rumion clearly is the better option.

Toyota Rumion vs Citroen C3 Aircross: A Clear Victor?

While both the C3 Aircross and the Rumion have their strengths and weaknesses, they cater to different types of buyers. The C3 Aircross, with its peppy engine, stylish aesthetics, and better handling, is likely to appeal to individuals looking for an SUV that can also double up as a seven-seater wagon for occasional outings with family or friends. On the other hand, the Rumion is clearly meant for those who know that they will frequently travel with more than five people. It prioritises passenger comfort and refinement over flashy styling and taut driving. It also has a far superior third row and more boot space.

In terms of price, both vehicles fall within a similar price range, but the C3 Aircross commands a slightly higher price tag. So, if budget is a significant consideration, the Rumion becomes an even more attractive option. Ultimately, the choice between the two vehicles depends entirely on your preferences and needs, with each vehicle offering its own unique blend of features and capabilities.