New Citroën C3 and Aircross: Strengthening the lineup in South Africa

Following a successful update of its product range in India, Citroën is now rolling out these enhancements across its global export markets, with South Africa standing as a primary focus. The Citroën C3 and the Aircross SUV have already proven their worth locally, frequently securing positions within the Top 50 best-selling vehicles. This is a significant achievement for models that were launched only recently. By introducing these latest updates, Citroën aims to boost the competitiveness of its lineup, ensuring continued growth and supporting the broader strategic objectives of the Stellantis group in the region.

Enhanced standard features and model-specific upgrades

The evolution of the South African lineup mirrors the technical improvements recently seen in India, catering to the sophisticated demands of the B-segment. Both the Citroën C3 and the Aircross SUV now benefit from high-value features that were previously optional. Key standard additions include keyless entry with push-button start and cruise control equipped with a speed limiter. Driving safety and comfort have also been prioritized with the inclusion of an electrochromic auto-dimming rearview mirror, designed to reduce glare during night-time driving.

The Citroën C3 continues to be powered by the reliable 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engines. The naturally aspirated version delivers 60 kW and 115 Nm of torque via a five-speed manual gearbox. For those seeking more performance, the turbocharged variant produces 81 kW and 205 Nm, paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. Safety is bolstered by six airbags and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) as standard. Pricing for the C3 MAX MT starts at R269,500 (approx. €14,283), while the MAX Turbo AT is positioned at R311,500 (approx. €16,509).

The Citroën Aircross receives similar technological boosts alongside a refreshed interior layout, featuring a new floating digital instrument cluster and a modernized dashboard design. To enhance the passenger experience, the vehicle now includes rear air vents and additional USB charging ports. The 1.2T Max seven-seater remains a highlight of the range, offering a removable third row for maximum modularity. Prices start at R294,500 (€15,608) for the Plus model, reaching R378,900 (€20,081) for the five-seater MAX Turbo AT and R388,900 (€20,611) for the seven-seater configuration.

A key growth driver for Stellantis in the region

The introduction of these updates comes at a strategic moment for Citroën in South Africa. Despite being a relatively new entrant in certain segments, the brand has successfully captured market interest. The consistent presence of the C3 and Aircross in the Top 50 sales charts indicates strong customer acceptance for vehicles that offer a balance of style, space, and value. This technological leap allows Citroën to compete more effectively with established rivals while maintaining its core brand values of comfort and practicality.

Citroën’s contribution to Stellantis’ regional performance is becoming increasingly vital. By offering robust vehicles with a 200 mm ground clearance, perfectly suited for local road conditions, and a comprehensive five-year/100,000 km warranty, the brand is positioning itself as a reliable choice for South African families. These product updates are more than just incremental changes; they represent a commitment to establishing Citroën as a long-term leader in the B-segment within emerging markets.

Conclusion: A global ambition realized

With this modernized and more competitive range, Citroën is well-positioned to further increase its market share in South Africa. This strategy aligns with Stellantis' "Dare Forward" goals to expand the group’s footprint in developing regions. By delivering improved technology and safety features without compromising on affordability, Citroën demonstrates its agility in adapting the "C-Cubed" program to diverse international needs. T