Citroen C3 Aircross (2017) review

The compact SUV class has just expanded with the entry of the Citroen C3 Aircross. For dealers this is a significant model as it marks Citroen’s first foray into the ultra-competitive B-SUV sector which over the coming months will also see the all-new Kia Stonic, Hyundai Kona and Seat Arona enter showrooms. Fortunately for Citroen retailers the Aircross’ funky styling and multi-coloured personalisation packages will help it stand out from the crowd.

The car is built on the same platform as Vauxhall’s recently launched Crossland X model and replaces the C3 Picasso mini-MPV in the Citroen line-up. The C3 Aircross marks the latest model in Citroen’s product offensive which will see a brand new model launched every year. Next up will be its bigger C-segment stablemate the C5 Aircross in 2018, giving dealers their long awaited opportunity to do some serious conquest business in the SUV sector; the sweet spot of the retail car market.

Over the years Citroen dealers have done well with the C3 Picasso, a model that trail-blazed the mini-MPV sector but had become an anachronism as a result of the crossover boom, so will have high hopes for its replacement. Importantly they will expect to achieve a high conversion rate amongst existing C3 Picasso owners looking for their next similarly sized but more fashionable car and starting their search with the Citroen franchise. They are unlikely to be disappointed as the new car combines mini-MPV dimensions and practicality with SUV styling; the best of both worlds.

However, what will determine this model’s success is the conquest sales it achieves. Dan Bullimore, the C3 Aircross’ product manager, is confident the range has strong retail appeal and will attract new customers.

“This is a step change for us. We’re expecting to sell 13,200 units in a full year with a heavy retail focus which will account for 56% of sales.

“This is our first SUV and the feedback from dealers has been very positive, they see it as giving them a perfect opportunity for them to compete in a popular sector.”

With Nissan’s Juke’s continued domination of the B-SUV sector, racking up around 60,000 annual sales, Citroen expects its entrant to offer a stylish alternative to Ford’s EcoSport and Renault Captur. Indeed, the brand expects a key differentiator to be its four exterior colour packs which give a total of 85 combinations, including different coloured roofs, roof rails and door mirrors, for customers wishing to personalise their cars.

Prices range from £13,995 to £19,720 with a choice of three trim levels; Touch, Feel and Flair. The engine line-up includes three 1.2-litre petrol units (82PS, 110PS and 130PS) and two 1.6-litre diesel units (100PS and 120PS). Petrol will account for 75% of sales.

With its funky styling, comprehensive safety features and high levels of standard specification, the Citroen C3 Aircross will tick a lot of boxes for compact SUV buyers. Furthermore it has the potential to be a big seller for the brand although ultimately its volumes are likely to be restricted by the production line it shares with its Vauxhall sibling.

Behind the wheel

Citroen designers had an interesting challenge to address with the all-new C3 Aircross: how do you combine the functionality of the popular C3 Picasso mini-MPV with the desirability of a new generation B-SUV? By and large they succeeded as this new crossover looks good on the road and will be roomy enough for young families who will be prime target customers.

The high seating position is excellent with a commanding view from the driver’s seat, although rear headroom in our test model, fitted with a panoramic roof, is not great for anyone over six feet tall.

The four-cylinder 100PS 1.6-litre turbo diesel engine in our test vehicle was refined and competent enough around town, its natural habitat. However, it needed coaxing to get up to motorway speeds with just two adults and no luggage on board. A full complement could be a challenge. However with emissions of just 104g/km and claimed combined fuel economy of 70.6mpg, many owners will still feel rewarded.

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