After competing against the MG ZS, the Citroën C3 Aircross 2024 now faces its toughest rival: the Dacia Duster. Long alone in the affordable urban SUV segment, the Romanian model is facing increasingly fierce competition. With this new generation, Citroën intends to make its mark thanks to a positioning focused on comfort and habitability. Does the C3 Aircross have what it takes to compete with the Duster, the market benchmark?
A strong style for two different philosophies
Exterior: adventurer versus modern SUV
For this third generation, the Dacia Duster adopts a new design language that reinforces its image as an unwavering adventurer. Gone are the elements shared with the Sandero: the Duster now asserts its own personality, marked by robust and muscular lines. Its rugged design and strong protections reinforce its adventurous character.
The Citroën C3 Aircross takes a different approach. Although it shares certain elements with the C3, notably the headlights and front doors, it benefits from wider fenders and a more imposing base thanks to the STLA Smart platform. Its design combines flowing lines with graphic elements that play with horizontality and verticality, giving it a strong SUV presence. An additional asset: a two-tone roof, available as standard on the Max version, which is missing from the Duster catalogue.
Interior: sobriety in the face of heat
Inside, Dacia has focused on robustness. The Duster has a dark dashboard that is only broken up by a blue stripe on certain versions. The whole thing focuses on simplicity and solidity, to the detriment of a warm atmosphere.
The Citroën C3 Aircross adopts a radically different philosophy, favouring a bright and friendly interior. The dashboard is lined with light-coloured fabric and the armrests and door compartments have been given a touch of colour. The Advanced Comfort seats, exclusive to the brand with the chevrons, enhance comfort.
In terms of technology, both SUVs have a 10-inch central screen and digital instruments. Citroën stands out with a display positioned at the base of the windscreen, creating a head-up display sensation. Another strong point of the C3 Aircross: the presence of physical controls for the air conditioning, while the Duster requires control via the touch-screen.
Accommodation and prices: Citroën takes the lead
Space and boot: the C3 Aircross dominates
While the Duster measures 4.34 m, the Citroën C3 Aircross goes a little further with 4.39 m and a wheelbase of 2.67 m. A difference that translates into record knee room in the back for an SUV with chevrons. Its comfort, already optimised with soft seats, is accompanied by generous space, making the C3 Aircross a reference in this respect.
The same goes for the boot. The C3 Aircross offers 460 litres, compared to 430 litres for the hybrid Duster and 517 litres for its thermal version. An advantage for the petrol Duster, but the C3 Aircross responds with a 7-seater configuration unique in this segment.
Prices and equipment: Citroën's advantage
The Dacia Duster Hybrid 140 starts at €26,800 in the Expression version. For its part, the Citroën C3 Aircross Hybrid 136, although less electrified (mild hybrid versus full hybrid), is more accessible with a price starting at €25,800.
In terms of equipment, Citroën scores a point: the C3 Aircross offers automatic air conditioning as standard, something the Duster lacks at this level of equipment. In addition, the Advanced Comfort seats and suspension ensure a high level of driving comfort.
With the new C3 Aircross, Citroën is taking direct aim at the Dacia Duster, whose sales have been impressive for years. In order to compete, the brand is relying on a modern design, record spaciousness and superior comfort. As a bonus, Citroën is offering competitive prices and better standard equipment.
But will it be enough to shake the king of affordable SUVs? The Duster still has a strong case with its rugged looks, rugged image and more efficient full hybrid version. As always, the final verdict will be on the road.
Comments