New Citroën C3 Aircross: versatile SUV with up to seven seats

In a market that is increasingly fragmented - split between electric cars, hybrids, combustion engines and models of all sizes and segments - it is becoming harder to find a vehicle that can cover several different use cases without forcing overly rigid compromises.

That is exactly the route taken by the new Citroën C3 Aircross. It is tough-looking and designed to suit almost anyone and almost any scenario. And it does so with entry prices below 20 thousand euros (including a 1500 € campaign currently in place).

It positions itself as a flexible option, offering several powertrains and the possibility of up to seven seats, while keeping comfort as one of the brand’s key pillars.

Rare ace in the segment

Being able to spec the C3 Aircross with seven seats is not unheard of in this class, but it remains far from common.

The third row increases the available seating - even if mainly for occasional use - without pushing buyers into a larger segment. And when those seats are not needed, the space can be returned to the boot, preserving the overall versatility.

It is an approach that fits different family scenarios and patterns of use, without forcing difficult decisions and trade-offs when choosing a new car.

One model, multiple powertrains

Another cornerstone of this package is its multi-energy strategy. This has been Stellantis’ stance for several years, and Citroën is one of the brands that feels most at ease delivering it.

As a result, the C3 Aircross is offered with petrol, hybrid and 100% electric versions, reflecting today’s market variety. Choosing the powertrain is less about picking a different car and more about matching the car to how it will be used.

For drivers focused on low running costs and who can charge at home or at work, the electric ë-C3 Aircross is the most suitable option. It features an 83 kW (113 cv) electric motor and a 44 kWh LFP battery in the Comfort Range version, with a maximum combined range of up to 306 km. There is also an Extended Range version with a larger 54 kWh battery, increasing the model’s combined range to up to 400 km.

The hybrid version combines a 1.2 Turbo engine with 100 cv, a 15,6 kWh (21 cv) electric motor, a small 0,89 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 48 V mild-hybrid system (paired with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox). It is aimed at those who cannot or do not want to go fully electric, but still want maximum efficiency in urban driving.

For buyers who need broader versatility and a more all-round use case, the purely petrol version is worth considering. It uses a 1.2 turbo three-cylinder engine with 100 cv and a 6-speed manual gearbox, with no electrification of any kind.

Different solutions for different needs - with space and flexibility always as the common thread. In this area, the only constraint is linked to the electric version, which is the only one that cannot be specified with a seven-seat layout.

Comfort comes first

No matter which powertrain is chosen, comfort remains one of the C3 Aircross’ core building blocks and was a key priority for the French engineers involved in developing this SUV.

It uses the suspension with double hydraulic stops that Citroën has been fitting to its latest models, helping to limit vertical body movement. It is also equipped with Citroën Advanced Comfort seats, made with denser foam to provide more support and greater comfort on longer journeys.

Beyond the suspension and seating, and with driver comfort in mind, Citroën also gives the C3 Aircross a wide set of driver assistance features as standard, including driver attention alert, speed limit recognition, lane-keeping alert, and cruise control with a speed limiter.

Styling that matches its purpose

In design terms, the C3 Aircross adopts a visual approach that puts robustness and practicality first.

With 20 cm of ground clearance, protective body cladding and the model’s overall silhouette, its versatility is clear: it is as happy doing weekly city trips as it is leaving the tarmac behind at the weekend.

And while the exterior styling supports the car’s positioning, the cabin follows the same philosophy: a minimalist layout with the essentials in focus. There is a 10,25’’ touchscreen (available from the Plus trim level), wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, a rear parking camera and automatic air conditioning.

On top of that, there is always a head-up display system projected onto a mirrored surface at the top of the dashboard, replacing the more traditional instrument cluster and showing information without requiring the driver to take their eyes off the road.

Because it is a rugged model intended for intensive use, hard plastics appear across much of the interior. However, there are also several fabric surfaces made from recycled materials, which help to strengthen the sense of quality.

How much does it cost?

In Portugal, the Citroën C3 Aircross is offered with prices starting at 17 790 euros for the 1.2 turbo 100 cv version with five seats and the You equipment level. In this same trim level, the fully electric variant starts at 24 990 euros - figures that include the discount campaigns currently in place.

The hybrid powertrain (only available from the mid-level Plus trim) starts at 23 890 euros, with campaign included.

With the exception of the YOU versions and the 100% electric versions, all variants can be configured with a five-seat cabin or, optionally, for an additional 700 euros, with capacity for up to seven occupants.