C3 Aircross EV expands seating capacity

author: FutureCar Staff    

Citroen has recently launched the fourth generation of its C3 supermini, but the company has even bigger plans for the upcoming C3 Aircross. This new model will not only compete with rivals like the Nissan Juke and Renault Captur but will also take on larger seven-seaters like the Dacia Jogger. With a focus on "affordable mobility for all," Citroen aims to deliver a car that is faster to produce and priced from as little as £14,500. The C3's new 'Smart Platform' architecture and build techniques will be utilized in the second-generation C3 Aircross, which will be available with five or seven seats.

Citroen's head of design, Pierre LeClercq, has revealed that the SUV influence on the C3 supermini has allowed for a more rugged look for the C3 Aircross. The forthcoming SUV is expected to feature a near-vertical grille, headlight treatment, taller bonnet line, and chunkier front bumper. Additionally, it will have a longer rear overhang to accommodate the extra row of seats. The C3 Aircross will offer petrol, hybrid, and full-electric powertrains, with options for turbocharged engines and dual-clutch automatic gearboxes. The electric version will have the same battery and motor as the C3, but a larger battery pack may be offered in the future.

Inside, the C3 Aircross is likely to have the same dashboard layout as the C3, featuring an ultra-slim instrument display and a 10-inch infotainment system. The Smart Platform, which has its roots in the Indian market, incorporates modifications to comply with European legislation and allows for flexibility in terms of length and wheelbase. The C3 Aircross could potentially stretch beyond 4.4 meters in length to accommodate a third row of seats, making it a rival for the Dacia Jogger and next-generation Dacia Duster.

Citroen's approach to safety is similar to that of Dacia, prioritizing compliance with regulations and crash protection rather than focusing on electronic safety aids for high star ratings in the Euro NCAP test. Laurence Hansen, Citroen's Director of Product and Strategy, emphasized that the new C3 is safe and meets the same level of safety as the current C3, regardless of star ratings. The company believes that passenger car customers are not concerned with NCAP ratings, and their focus is on affordability and reliability.

Overall, Citroen's new C3 Aircross aims to offer affordable mobility with its versatile design, powertrain options, and safety features. The company is confident that the C3 Aircross will be a strong competitor in the market.

FutureCar Staff