Unveiled last June, the new Citroën C3 Aircross will be on sale from March and will soon be available for testing. Before taking the wheel, I took advantage of the Brussels Motor Show to pit it against one of its most serious competitors: the MG ZS Hybrid. This static comparison allows us to analyse their strengths and better understand their differences.
An unmistakable style in the face of sobriety
Citroën wanted to give the new C3 Aircross a strong identity. Its generous fenders, imposing front end and robust aesthetic elements reinforce its off-road look. Its vertical light signature and bodywork protectors add to the SUV effect. A two-tone roof is offered as standard on Max versions, further enhancing the exterior style.
The MG ZS plays the sobriety card. Its more austere design is aimed at a wide audience, and although it offers an optional glass roof, it does not allow you to opt for a two-tone roof. Its more conventional appearance, with a refined look and a widened grille, gives it a more traditional look. The whole is harmonious, but less expressive than the C3 Aircross, which fully embraces its distinctive positioning.
Inside, the Citroën C3 Aircross adopts a horizontal dashboard identical to that of the new C3. The position of the head-up display and the use of 3D fabric on the lower part of the dashboard create a warm atmosphere. This configuration also frees up space for the front passengers and offers better visibility of the road ahead. The Max version adds a light fabric to enhance this sense of space and brightness, making the cabin even more welcoming.
The MG ZS takes a different approach. Its all-black interior exudes a more sober atmosphere, but is distinguished by stitching and a finish that aims to give it a more premium appearance. Its central screen varies between 10 and 12.3 inches depending on the trim, but it is positioned so that the driver has to take his eyes off the road, unlike the C3 Aircross, whose screen is positioned higher up to allow the driver to concentrate on driving. Elsewhere, MG has integrated the climate controls into the touchscreen interface, while Citroën has retained physical controls, a point that will appeal to many drivers looking for quick and intuitive access to essential settings.
With its longer wheelbase, the C3 Aircross offers more generous rear space, with legroom 8 cm higher than the segment average. The Advanced Comfort seats benefit from special attention to comfort, combining softness and support. On the other hand, the MG ZS compensates with a more flattering perceived quality, with materials that seem more rewarding, although the general atmosphere is more austere.
The Citroën C3 Aircross has a wheelbase of 2.67 m, 6 cm longer than the MG ZS (2.61 m). This difference results in more knee room in the rear, ensuring optimum passenger comfort. Citroën's Advanced Comfort seats further enhance this sense of space and well-being. Access to the rear seats is facilitated by wider doors and a higher seat, making it easier to fit passengers or a child seat.
With a boot capacity of 460 litres, compared to 440 litres for the MG ZS, the C3 Aircross confirms its family orientation. It also has a modular luggage compartment floor to create more space when the back seat folds down. The MG ZS, on the other hand, has a boot with a lower loading height, which makes it easier to access the luggage, although its capacity is slightly less than that of the Citroën.
Engines: two visions of hybrid.
The C3 Aircross is equipped with a 1.2-litre 136 hp engine mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. A small 21 bhp electric motor is also integrated. It is backed up by a 0.42 kWh battery that optimises fuel consumption by providing periods of electric driving, particularly in urban areas and when starting from a standstill. The small battery is constantly recharged thanks to significant energy recovery.
For its part, the MG ZS boasts a combined output of 197 hp, but this is obtained by combining the thermal engine (102 hp, 108 Nm of torque) and the electric motor. However, the total power is only available under certain conditions. However, its more generous battery (1.83 kWh) allows it to run in electric mode for longer and more frequently than the C3 Aircross, which could appeal to drivers looking to reduce their fuel consumption.
In terms of price, the Citroën C3 Aircross starts at €25,800 for the Plus version, while the MG ZS starts at €22,990 for the Standard version. While the price difference is considerable for a cash purchase, it is much less for a long-term rental. Indeed, only €25 per month separates them, which could tip the balance in favour of the more family-friendly Citroën SUV.
Conclusion: comfort or hybrid efficiency?
This static comparison highlights two different approaches. The Citroën C3 Aircross stands out as an SUV with benchmark comfort, with record roominess and a warm interior. On the other hand, the MG ZS focuses on electric efficiency, with a more high-end finish, even if it is clearly more consensual.
If the MG ZS looks promising in terms of electric assistance, the C3 Aircross should, unsurprisingly, score in terms of comfort. All that remains is to test them on the road to make a final decision.
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