Citroën C3 Aircross: a new X version in India

Just a few weeks after initiating the renewal of its Indian lineup with the new C3 X and the Basalt SUV-coupe, Citroën is continuing its offensive. Today, the French brand introduces the new Citroën C3 Aircross, which, like the other models in the "C-Cubed" family, now features the "X" suffix. More than just a name change, this evolution signals a clear strategy from the manufacturer: to offer a better-equipped, more modern, and, most importantly, more competitive vehicle to strengthen its position in the fiercely contested Indian market. This strategic update aims to better equip the family SUV against increasingly sharp local and international competition.

A thoroughly revised and more premium interior

While the exterior changes on this C3 Aircross X are subtle, limited to a new badge on the tailgate and the introduction of an elegant "Deep Forest Green" color, it is inside the cabin where the most dramatic transformation has occurred. Now officially named "Aircross" in the Indian market, the vehicle sheds its original dashboard in favor of the much more modern and upscale one from the recent Basalt SUV-coupe. This strategic move creates a clearer differentiation from the C3 hatchback while providing a significantly enhanced perception of quality.

The interior is now dominated by a new 10.25-inch bezel-less touchscreen, which instantly modernizes the onboard experience. In front of the driver, a new 7-inch digital display replaces the old gauges, offering a clearer and more comprehensive reading of information. The overall ambiance is elevated by a leatherette-covered dashboard with subtle gold accents and a redesigned gear shifter, contributing to a more refined and premium atmosphere. This interior upgrade was highly anticipated and now positions the C3 Aircross more favorably against its direct rivals.

A leading-edge technological and safety package

The "X" suffix is not merely cosmetic; it symbolizes a substantial enrichment of the equipment list. The C3 Aircross X incorporates features previously unseen in this segment for the brand. Among the most notable additions are ventilated front seats—a highly appreciated comfort in hot climates—and a 360-degree camera available on the top trim, greatly facilitating maneuvers in urban environments. The comfort and convenience package is also expanded with an auto-dimming rearview mirror, passive keyless entry with a push-button start, and cruise control.

Citroën also introduces its "Cara" artificial intelligence assistant, first seen on the Basalt. Capable of providing real-time flight status tracking, optimizing routes based on traffic and schedules, and delivering vehicle status updates, this assistant could potentially be integrated into other models in the global lineup in the future. On the safety front, the C3 Aircross X makes a strong statement. It comes standard with six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and Hill Start Assist. This comprehensive safety suite has enabled it to achieve a maximum 5-star rating in crash tests conducted by Bharat NCAP, the Indian safety assessment program, providing a compelling argument for families.

Under the hood, the engine lineup is straightforward and efficient. The entry-level "You" trim is powered by an 82 hp 1.2-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The higher "X Plus" and "X Max" trims feature the more powerful 110 hp 1.2-liter PureTech turbo engine, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. A 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission is also available as an option, but exclusively on the top-tier Aircross X Max trim. Prices range from ₹8.29 lakh (approximately €9,200) for the base model to ₹13.49 lakh (approximately €15,000) for the fully equipped X Max variant.

With the launch of the C3 Aircross X, Citroën has completed the rapid renewal of its range for India and other emerging markets, an offensive that began in late summer with the C3 X. By equipping its models with more modern interiors, relevant technological features, and a certified high level of safety, the brand is providing itself with the tools to achieve its ambitions. The lineup is now more coherent, attractive, and above all, more competitive. It now remains to be seen whether this strategy will allow Citroën to successfully win the hearts of motorists in India and in the other markets where these models will be sold. The answer will be revealed in the sales figures of the coming months.