| Citroën C3 Aircross | |
|---|---|
Citroën ë-C3 Aircross (Germany) | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Citroën[a] |
| Also called | Citroën Aircross (Latin America, 2016–2020) Citroën C4 Aircross (standalone model, China) |
| Production | 2010–2020 (Latin America) 2017–present (Europe) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Subcompact crossover SUV (B) |
| Body style | 5-doorSUV |
| Layout | Front-engine, front-wheel-drive |
TheCitroën C3 Aircross is a nameplate designated to several vehicles produced under theCitroën marque, by theFrench automakerPSA Group, and laterStellantis.
The first vehicle using the nameplate was the Brazilian version of theC3 PicassoMPV, decorated to mimic an SUV exterior design, which was produced between 2010 and 2020. It was renamed to theCitroën Aircross in 2016.
In 2017, the second vehicle using this nameplate was released in Europe, It is an urbanSUV that replaced the C3 Picasso. In 2023, the nameplate was also used for a larger SUV foremerging markets such as India and South America with optional third row seating.
| C3 Picasso-based model (Latin America) | |
|---|---|
| Overview | |
| Also called | Citroën Aircross (facelift) |
| Production | 2010–2021 |
| Assembly | Brazil:Porto Real (PSA Brasil) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Related | Citroën C3 Picasso Citroën C3Ellipse; command 23f |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | Petrol: 1.5L 8V 1.6 LEP6 VTi16VI4 |
| Transmission | 5-speedmanual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,540 mm (100.0 in)[1] |
| Length | 4,279 mm (168.5 in)[1] |
| Width | 1,723 mm (67.8 in)[1] |
| Height | 1,697 mm (66.8 in)[1] |
| Curb weight | 1,387 kg (3,058 lb)[1] |

TheCitroën C3 AirCross for Latin America is amini SUV close with theglobal Citroën C3 Picasso. It was first announced byCitroën's Brazilian division in August 2010. The C3 AirCross is manufactured inPorto Real, Brazil, and was launched in the country in September 2010.[2] It was exported to selected markets such as Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Colombia and Costa Rica.
Compared with the global C3 Picasso, the restyled C3 AirCross has raised suspension, chrome roof bars, mirror covers, side skirts and a rear spare tyre.[3][4] The C3 AirCross is based on the Brazilian first generationCitroën C3, when the global C3 Picasso is based on the globalPeugeot 207 SW.[5] The C3 Aircross is capable of running onE85Bioethanol.[6]
Ivan Segal, the managing director of Citroën of Brazil predicted sales of 30,000 Aircross models in a full year at launch,[2] but lowered this expectation in 2011 to 2,000 Aircross models per month. Segal wanted to achieve this by targeting "young and adventurous" buyers.[7]

In May 2011, a non-crossover model derived from the C3 Aircross was launched. Although calledC3 Picasso, it was closer to the C3 AirCross (same platform, same grill, same interior, no tailgate) than to the global C3 Picasso.[8]
Late 2014, Citroën C3 AirCross Lunar showcar was revealed atSão Paulo International Motor Show.[9]
The Aircross features an upholstered fabric interior, with corduroy or leather options.[10] The engine supports are designed to collapse downwards slightly in a front end impact to prevent the engine from invading the cabin and injuring passengers. The C3 AirCross SX and Exclusive models haveABS, one of the few vehicles on sale in the Brazilian market with this feature.[11]
The C3 AirCross was designed with an obligation forgreen materials to be used where viable. 20 kg (44.1 lb) of the vehicle's polymers, include the parcel shelf, boot carpet, and partial use in the doors, are from natural fibres to meet this target.[12]
In Brazil, the Aircross is available with a four speed automatic or five speed manual gearbox.[13]
| Petrol engines[14][15][16] | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model | Year | Engine code | Displacement (cc,cu in) | Power | Torque | 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) (seconds) | Top speed | Transmission | CO2 emissions (g/km) |
| 1.5 litre 8v 90[17][5] (petrol) | 2013– | 90 PS (66 kW; 89 bhp) | 140 N⋅m (103 lb⋅ft) | 5 speed manual | |||||
| 1.6 litre VTi 16v (petrol) | 2010– | EP6 | 1,587 (97) | 110 PS (81 kW; 108 bhp) | 142 N⋅m (105 lb⋅ft) | 14 | 165 km/h (103 mph) | 5 speed manual | 220 |
| 1.6 litre VTi 16v (alcohol) | 2010– | EP6 | 1,587 (97) | 113 PS (83 kW; 111 bhp) | 155 N⋅m (114 lb⋅ft) | 14 | 165 km/h (103 mph) | 5 speed manual | 220 |
| 1.6 litre VTi 120 (petrol) | 2013– | EP6 | 1,587 (97) | 115 PS (85 kW; 113 bhp) | 152 N⋅m (112 lb⋅ft) | 5 speed manual | |||
| 1.6 litre VTi 120 (alcohol) | 2013– | EP6 | 1,587 (97) | 122 PS (90 kW; 120 bhp) | 161 N⋅m (119 lb⋅ft) | 5 speed manual | |||
In the end of 2015, a facelifted version of the C3 AirCross was introduced in South America as a model for 2016. The most significant changes are a new front end. The non-Aircross version (C3 Picasso) was dropped.
The name of the C3 AirCross was changed toCitroën Aircross.
In 2016, Citroën revealed a showcar based on the Aircross, called Aircross Beach Crosser.[18]
The production of the Aircross ended early 2021.[19]
Autoblog.com reviewed the C3 AirCross, giving a mostly negative review to aspects and features of the vehicle. The basic X model launched with no airbags, ABS, or temperature sensor; the last of which they consider to be a necessity in the hot Latin American climate. They criticised the boot, calling it awkward and complicated since it can only open once an arm carrying the spare tyre has been unlocked and swung out of the way, which increases the space required for parking.
Further, in their review, they complained that the dashboard mounted displays were difficult for the driver to see comfortably, echoing concernsCNET had when reviewing the C3 Picasso, where they called the displays "not particularly readable" and possibly dangerous to use while driving.[20]
Only one engine is available for the C3 AirCross; a 1.6-litre HDi used in other Citroën cars, including the Latin American market's C3 Picasso.Autoblog.com's review was favourable to it since it performed very well in the Aircross off-road, although it was noisy on road. They found no discernible issues with the suspension, which handled well on and off the road, traversing irregular terrain without issues.[10]
Overall,Autoblog.com considered the price ofAR$80,000 to be unrealistically high for the lack of features they considered to be essential, and when compared to rivals.[10][21]
| First generation | |
|---|---|
2019 Citroën C3 Aircross Flair | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | A88 |
| Also called | Citroën C4 Aircross (China) |
| Production | October 2017 – 2024 |
| Assembly | Spain:Zaragoza (Opel España de Automóviles) China: (DPCA) |
| Designer | Frédéric Duvernier (exterior) Céline Manetta (interior) Pierre Icard (facelift, exterior)[22] |
| Body and chassis | |
| Platform | PSA PF1 platform |
| Related | Opel Crossland Peugeot 2008 I |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission | 5-speedmanual (2017–2020) 6-speed manual 6-speedautomatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase |
|
| Length |
|
| Width | 1,760 mm (69.3 in)[1] |
| Height | 1,640 mm (64.6 in) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Citroën C3 Picasso Citroën C4 Cactus |
TheCitroën C3 Aircross for Europe is asubcompact crossover SUV from Citroën. Presented on 12 June 2017 inParis, it has been marketed from October of the same year. The C3 Aircross was announced by the C-Aircross concept car, presented at the2017 Geneva Motor Show.
It shares its platform and many elements with its cousin theOpel Crossland X that replaces theMeriva, following the partnership betweenGroupe PSA andGeneral Motors, which was first announced in 2012. Its style, directed byPierre Authier, is in harmony with that of the new Citroën range: front double decker, "3D" lights. The C3 Aircross also offers numerous possibilities for customisation.
InChina, along wheel base version is launched in 2018. It is known as theC4 Aircross (full name:Dongfeng Citroën Yunyi C4 Aircross). Its wheelbase at 2,655 mm is 11.5 centimetres longer which results into a length of 4,270 mm.[23] The Citroën C4 Aircross was prematurely discontinued in 2020 due to poor sales.[24]
The model underwent a mid-life restyling through a facelift (inspired by CXperience concept), revealed in February 2021, with production starting in June that year.[25] The update includes sleeker, bolder headlights, revised grille and front bumper, along updated technology. The facelift brings different models.[26]
Pre-facelift models
Spec Model | Engine | Power | Torque | Displacement | Top speed | Transmission | Acceleration (0-60/100) | Drive | Model years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol models | |||||||||
| 1.2 Puretech 82[27] | 1.2 LEB2F PuretechI3 | 82 hp (61 kW; 83 PS) @ 5750 | 118 N⋅m (87 lb⋅ft) @ 2750 | 1,199 cc (1.2 L; 73.2 cu in) | 165 km/h (103 mph) | 5-speedmanual | 14.0 sec | FWD | Nov 2017-Jul 2018 |
| 1.2 Puretech 110[28][29][30] | 1.2 LEB2DT/EB2DAT PuretechI3turbo | 110 hp (82 kW; 112 PS) @ 5500 | 205 N⋅m (151 lb⋅ft) @ 1500 | 185 km/h (115 mph) | 10.2 sec | ||||
| 205 N⋅m (151 lb⋅ft) @ 1750 | 190 km/h (118 mph) | 6-speedmanual | 10.1 sec | Jul 2018-Mar 2021 | |||||
| 205 N⋅m (151 lb⋅ft) @ 1500 | 183 km/h (114 mph) | 6-speedautomatic | 10.6 sec | Nov 2017-Jul 2018 | |||||
| 1.2 Puretech 130[31][32] | 1.2 LEB2DTS PuretechI3turbo | 130 hp (97 kW; 132 PS) @ 5500 | 230 N⋅m (170 lb⋅ft) @ 1750 | 200 km/h (124 mph) | 6-speedmanual | 9.3 sec | Nov 2017-Jul 2018 | ||
| 195 km/h (121 mph) | 6-speedautomatic | 9.3 sec | Oct 2019-Mar 2021 | ||||||
| Diesel models | |||||||||
| 1.5 BlueHDi 102[33] | 1.5 LDW5 BlueHDII4turbo | 102 hp (76 kW; 103 PS) @ 3500 | 250 N⋅m (184 lb⋅ft) @ 1750 | 1,499 cc (1.5 L; 91.5 cu in) | 184 km/h (114 mph) | 6-speedmanual | 10.8 sec | FWD | Aug 2018-Mar 2021 |
| 1.5 BlueHDi 120[34] | 1.5 LDW5 BlueHDII4turbo | 120 hp (89 kW; 122 PS) @ 3750 | 300 N⋅m (221 lb⋅ft) @ 1750 | 195 km/h (121 mph) | 6-speedautomatic | 9.6 sec | |||
| 1.6 BlueHDi 99[35] | 1.6 LDW6 BlueHDi I4turbo | 99 hp (74 kW; 100 PS) @ 3750 | 254 N⋅m (187 lb⋅ft) @ 1750 | 1,560 cc (1.6 L; 95.2 cu in) | 175 km/h (109 mph) 178 km/h (111 mph) (S&S) | 5-speedmanual | 11.5 sec | Nov 2017-Jul 2018 | |
| 1.6 BlueHDi 120 S&S[36] | 120 hp (89 kW; 122 PS) @ 3500 | 300 N⋅m (221 lb⋅ft) @ 1750 | 183 km/h (114 mph) | 6-speedmanual | 9.8 sec | ||||
Facelift models
Spec Model | Engine | Power | Torque | Displacement | Top speed | Transmission | Acceleration (0-60/100) | Drive | Model years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol models | |||||||||
| 1.2 Puretech 110[37] | 1.2 LEB2ADT PuretechI3turbo | 110 hp (82 kW; 112 PS) @ 5500 | 205 N⋅m (151 lb⋅ft) @ 1750 | 1,199 cc (1.2 L; 73.2 cu in) | 182 km/h (113 mph) | 6-speedmanual | 10.1 sec | FWD | June 2021— |
| 1.2 Puretech 130[38] | 1.2 LEB2ADTS PuretechI3turbo | 131 hp (98 kW; 133 PS) @ 5500 | 230 N⋅m (170 lb⋅ft) @ 1750 | 195 km/h (121 mph) | 6-speedautomatic | 9.1 sec | |||
| Diesel models | |||||||||
| 1.5 BlueHDi 110[39] | 1.5 LDW5 BlueHDII4turbo | 110 hp (82 kW; 112 PS) @ 3750 | 250 N⋅m (184 lb⋅ft) @ 1750 | 1,499 cc (1.5 L; 91.5 cu in) | 178 km/h (111 mph) | 6-speedmanual | 10.7 sec | FWD | June 2021— |
| 1.5 BlueHDi 120[40] | 120 hp (89 kW; 122 PS) @ 3750 | 300 N⋅m (221 lb⋅ft) @ 1750 | 188 km/h (117 mph) | 6-speedautomatic | 10.1 sec | ||||
Jeremy Clarkson in theGrand Tour reviewed the Aircross and showed that the vehicle could tow a 30,000 ton Neptunecar carrierferry a distance of 25 metres, chase aDe Tomaso Pantera until the robber's car broke down, fit 4 children inside with him, and even take the route of the Tunisian generalHannibal from 218 BC, going faster than an elephant.[41]
| Second generation (Europe) | |
|---|---|
2024 Citroën C3 Aircross | |
| Overview | |
| Production | 2024–present |
| Assembly | Slovakia:Trnava |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 5-doorSUV |
| Platform | Smart Car Platform |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Electric motor | Permanent magnet synchronous (electric) |
| Power output |
|
| Transmission |
|
| Hybrid drivetrain | Mild hybrid |
| Battery | 44 kWhLFP (electric)[44] |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,670 mm (105.1 in) |
| Length | 4,390 mm (172.8 in) |
| Width | 1,790 mm (70.5 in) |
| Height | 1,660 mm (65.4 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,298–1,504 kg (2,862–3,316 lb) |
The second-generation C3 Aircross for the European market was unveiled on 18 April 2024,[45] with full specifications revealed including interior photos on 19 June.[46] It is built on theSmart Car Platform underpinning theOpel Frontera and it will be available withpetrolmild hybrid andbattery electric powertrains. For the first time in its segment, it is offered with a 7-seater option and the first B-SUV to be marketed in Europe at a price less than €20,000 for theICE version.[47]
Compared to the Indian market C3 Aircross, the European version C3 Aircross uses a different front fascia with all-LED lighting, it features Citroën's latest logos, different alloy wheel designs, different designs for the headlights and taillights, and a different front and rear bumpers. It features design elements previewed by theOli Concept in September 2022.[48]
The interior of the C3 Aircross is similar to the C3, featuring the C-Zen Lounge concept with Citroën's Head-Up Display and a flat-bottom design steering wheel. Like the C3, it will feature Citroën Advanced Comfort Suspension along with new Citroën Advanced Comfort Seats.[49]
The C3 Aircross is available with two engines: a 1.2-litre PureTech Turbo and a 1.2-litre PureTech Hybrid petrol that is equipped with a 48-voltmild hybrid system. For the first time, it is available with a battery electric powertrain producing 83 kW (113 PS; 111 hp) and an electric range of over 300 km (186 mi).[49]
| Second generation (India and Latin America) | |
|---|---|
Citroën C3 Aircross (Indian-built model) | |
| Overview | |
| Model code | CC24 |
| Also called | Citroën Aircross (India, 2024–present) |
| Production | 2023–present |
| Assembly | India:Tiruvallur (Citroën India) Brazil:Porto Real (Stellantis do Brasil) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 5-doorSUV |
| Platform | Smart Car Platform |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission | 6-speedmanual 6-speedautomatic[52] CVT[53] |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,671 mm (105.2 in) |
| Length | 4,323 mm (170.2 in) |
| Width | 1,796 mm (70.7 in) |
| Height | 1,669 mm (65.7 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,195–1,309 kg (2,635–2,886 lb) |
Citroën unveiled the second generation of the C3 Aircross in India and Brazil on 27 April 2023.[54][55] Compared to its predecessor, the second-generation model is significantly larger with an increased length by 160 mm (6.3 in) and the availability of third-row seating. It is the second model in Citroën's C-Cubed programme, it features similar styling elements and interior layout from the C3, and is based on the Smart Car Platform with the European model using the same platform.[54][56]
The C3 Aircross was launched in Argentina on 7 May 2024, in three trim levels: Live, Feel Pack and Shine. It is available with either 5 and 7-seater configurations. Two engine options are available: a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol (marketed as T200) and a 1.6-litre VTi petrol.[57]
The C3 Aircross was launched in Brazil on 29 November 2023, in three trim levels: Feel, Feel Pack and Shine. It is available with either 5 and 7-seater configurations. All variants are powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol.[58]
The Brazilian model is locally assembled at the Porto Real Plant and is exported to various Latin American markets.[59]
The C3 Aircross was launched in India on 15 September 2023, with deliveries commenced later on 15 October. It is available in You, Plus and Max trim levels and available with either 5 and 7-seater configurations.[60] In January 2024, the automatic variant was made available for the Plus and Max trim levels.[61]
Citroën claimed that over 90% of its components are locally sourced at the Tiruvallur plant inTamil Nadu and it will be exported to ASEAN, Nepal and South African markets.[62]
In India, the C3 Aircross received persistent criticism over the lack of equipment offered on the model.[63][64] As a result of this negative feedback, Citroën revises its offering in this market in August 2024, adding automatic climate control, rear ventilation vents, LED headlamps, a folding key, a wider front armrest, rear window controls on the rear door panels, as well as 6 airbags as standard.[65] The model was also renamed from C3 Aircross to simply theCitroën Aircross.[66]
The C3 Aircross was introduced in Indonesia at the30th Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show in August 2023,[67] and later launched in Indonesia on 23 April 2024.[68] Imported from India, it is available in a sole variant and 7-seater configuration.
The C3 Aircross was launched in South Africa on 16 July 2024 in a sole Max trim, available in either 5- and 7-seater configurations, powered by a 1.2-litre PureTech turbocharged petrol paired to an 6-speed automatic.[69] The Plus trim powered by a 1.2-litre petrol was made available in December 2024.[70]
In 2024, the C3 Aircross in its most basic Latin American configuration obtained 0 stars fromLatin NCAP (similar toEuro NCAP 2014).[71]
| Test | Score | Stars |
|---|---|---|
| Adult occupant protection | 27.05/32.00 | |
| Child occupant protection | 40.00/49.00 |
A coupe version called theBasalt was revealed as a show car in India and in Brazil on 27 March 2024.[73] The series production in India started in June 2024.[74]
| Year | Brazil | Argentina | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C3 Aircross | C3 Picasso | C3 Aircross | C3 Picasso | |
| 2010 | 4,244[75] | |||
| 2011 | 16,717[76] | 4,702[76] | 4,341[77] | 2,061[77] |
| 2012 | 11,931[78] | 9,111[78] | 3,910[79] | 3,263[79] |
| 2013 | 9,358[80] | 6,582[80] | 5,517[81] | 5,562[81] |
| 2014 | 7,294[82] | 3,688[82] | 2,450[83] | 2,944[83] |
| 2015 | 4,664[84] | 1,335[84] | 1,078[85] | 1,147[85] |
| 2016 | 7,464[86] | 14[86] | 3,924[87] | |
| 2017 | 8,316[88] | 5,180[89] | ||
| 2018 | 5,566[90] | 2,986[91] | ||
| 2019 | 2,806[92] | 1,396[93] | ||
| 2020 | 679[94] | 910[95] | ||
| 2021 | 49[96] | 576[97] | ||
| Year | Europe[98][99] | Turkey |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 16,982 | |
| 2018 | 110,394 | |
| 2019 | 112,089 | |
| 2020 | 75,281 | |
| 2021 | 68,608 | |
| 2022 | 64,043 | 5,447[100] |
| 2023 | 8,085 | |
| 2024 | 4,290 |
| Year | Brasil | Indonesia[101] |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 8,284[102] | 836 |