At a quarter off, this new Citroen is a true bargain
The Citroen C3 Aircross has starred on space as much as it has on sexy since it arrived in SA on the brand’s re-focus a few years ago. It since lost many of the first attempt’s perhaps overly quirky bits and now this third one shifts well downmarket in line with the brand’s new, more affordable ethos. Now in a ‘muscular’ look, albeit in typical Citroen style.
The second C-Cubed Citroën model to reach South Africa, this 5+2 seater offers excellent space in a clever, comfortable, and cool cabin. But it’s this car’s value proposition that truly sets it apart by unrivalled bang for buck. The last time we tested a C3 Aircross it cost R424K. Today this 7 seater will only set you back 355 grand.
Get that chic Citroen stance for much less
So, along with that assertive, mature chic Citroen stance, stylish SUV versatility and a tall driving position, this one is also a bargain. Now almost visibly a Korean SUV rival at Chinese SUV prices, the C3 Aircross is therefore now a far more serious purchasing prospect, at a quarter-off.
Look, there are compromises. The finish, while still Citroen-chic, is far more plasticky and basic, and from what we recall, a lot of redundant tech has been stripped out. But also replaced by far more practical solutions. Like that school-run seven-seater set-up. But for the rest, its’ still very much a Citroen. Just now far more affordable.
Familiar modular, airy C3 Aircross cabin
Step aboard the familiar modular, spacious and airy cabin This one adds two individual third row seats, both air-conditioned via a roof panel above. They fold down or remove them individually d to up the boot to 511 litres. A unique grain soft-touch dash has smart seven-inch TFT dials and largest in class 10-inch CarPlay Auto Bluetooth etc. touchscreen infotainment. The cup holders even double as USB smartphone holders.
Powered by PSA’s 1.2-litre PureTech turbo petrol turning the front axle via a 6-speed autobox, C3 Aircross keeps the lusty 81kW 3-pot. That’s decent power. And it sounds good when you step on it. Boasting a typically Citroen magic carpet feel and comfy ride quality, it’s still perky and frisky on the road and handles well. In fact, C3 Aircross proved unexpectedly nimble and fun to drive.
Splitting hairs to find C3 Aircross fault
Part of Stellantis, Citroen is also committed to improve every aspect of ownership. Its dealer body promises best customer service to parts availability. And the C3 Aircross comes fully covered too. You get a full 5–Year 100,000km warranty and 4-year 60,000 km service plan with roadside assistance.
Downsides? Perhaps. Visibility from the driver’s seat is average and those cloth seats look drab and have a scratchy feel. And now that it’s a bargain instead of the belle of the ball, this Citroen also lacks some of its rivals’ spec. Like that good old twist key, in a market where push to start is the norm. The infotainment system looks cool. Although it may not quite be up to par against some rivals. But we’re splitting hairs to be honest.
It’s a real bargain, a big win
So, whether you’re a Citroen fan or just someone with a penchant for cars just a little different to the rest, rest assured that this sexy new Citroen C3 Aircross will not only set you apart in the school parking lot or at the tennis club. But it’s now a real bargain, and in these trying times, that has to be a huge win — Michele Lupini.
Images & Testing: Giordano Lupini
ROAD TESTED: Citroen C3 Aircross MAX 1.2 Auto 7s
Engine: 81 kW 205 Nm 1.2-litre turbo petrol I3
Drive: 6-speed automatic FWD
TESTED:
0-60 km/h: 4.69 sec
0-100 km/h: 10.74 sec
0-120 km/h: 15.15 sec
0-160 km/h: 30.98 sec
400m: 17.5 sec @ 128 km/h
80-120 km/h: 7.88 sec
120-160 km/h: 15.83 sec
CLAIMED:
VMax: 185 km/h
Fuel: 6.3 l/100km
CO2: 149 g/km
Range: 710 km
Warranty/Service: 5y 100K/4y 60K km
LIST PRICE: R354K
How does it shape up?
Check Auto's Test Records now!