The second generation of the Citroen C3 Aircross will share its underpinnings with the upcoming Opel Crossland offering both mild-hybrid and pure electric variants
We’ve updated this story with new renderings and the most recent information regarding the sub-compact crossover. Please keep in mind that it includes independent illustrations not connected to or endorsed by Citroen (9/9).
Stellantis is re-organizing its numerous offerings in the small SUV segment, with the Citroen C3 Aircross and the Opel Crossland siblings being next in line to get their electrified new generations in 2024. The French sub-compact crossover (B-SUV) is getting an overhaul, growing in size and adopting the latest technology while remaining focused on comfort, affordability, and practicality.
In May 2023, Citroen presented the “New C3 Aircross” for emerging markets including India, South East Asia, and South America. While the upcoming European version will differ in terms of styling, equipment, and powertrain options, it gives us a good idea of what to expect.
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As depicted by the speculative renderings created by our associates, the EU-spec C3 Aircross is expected to adopt styling cues from the 2022 Citroen Oli concept, following the example of the upcoming E-C3 crossover supermini. Those include the automaker’s new oval-shaped double chevron emblem, alongside simpler LED headlights, the omission of a grille, and a generous dose of plastic cladding on the bumper.
The profile will likely borrow elements from the New C3 Aircross including the greenhouse and possibly a few body panels, in a quest to lower production and development costs. This means that the SUV will grow in size, probably closely matching the 4.32 m (170.1 inches) length of its South American sibling, making it 170 mm (6.7 inches) longer compared to its predecessor. Small touches like the futuristic wheels and small changes on the trim will further differentiate the two models, making the C3 Aircross more suitable for the taste of European buyers.
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In a quest to further differentiate the mechanically-related B-SUVs coming from its other brands, Stellantis groups them in two different sizes – the Opel Mokka, Jeep Avenger, Fiat 600, DS3, and upcoming Alfa Romeo are on the smaller end of the segment, while the larger Peugeot 2008, Citroen C3 Aircross and Opel Crossland, are on the other end of the spectrum. This strategy also allows more breathing room for the smaller E-C3 supermini which will evolve from a traditional supermini hatchback to a more stylish crossover.
More Spacious Interior Closing Down On Compact SUVs
The interior of the Citroen New C3 Aircross
The larger footprint will translate to more space for passengers and their luggage, making the C3 Aircross more practical than ever before. Unlike the South American New C3 Aircross that features a three-row seven-seater layout, the European model will be exclusively offered with five seats and a larger boot of up to 511 lt (18 cubic feet).
Citroen is the value-focused brand of Stellantis but that doesn’t mean that the C3 Aircross will come short of new technology. The dashboard will likely inherit the digital cockpit already found on the larger C4 and C4 X including the 10-inch infotainment display. Furthermore, colorful accents on the dashboard, doors, and seats could make the C3 Aircross more playful than the aforementioned larger models, with more storage compartments enhancing its family-friendly credentials. Citroen is known for prioritizing comfort over sportiness, so the small SUV will most likely get the plushy Advanced Comfort seats and a brand-specific suspension setup giving it a pillow-y ride.
New Platform With Mild Hybrid And Fully Electric Powertrains
The first generation of the Citroen C3 Aircross, introduced in 2017 and facelifted in 2021, is one of the last remaining models based on the old PSA PF1 platform, which is why it urgently needs a replacement. The new model will finally make the jump to the CMP/eCMP architecture, which is compatible with mild-hybrid and fully electric powertrains plus more modern ADAS features.
The fully electric E-C3 Aircross will feature a single front-mounted electric motor. The unit is currently available with 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) and 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS) in mechanically-related offerings, although the small Citroens could get a less powerful version at least for their entry-level trims. Most Stellantis EVs were recently updated with a 54 kWh battery that could find its way in the E-C3 Aircross.
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The ICE-powered range will likely be focused around the recently introduced 1.2-liter PureTech 48v mild-hybrid powertrain which is already available in 99 hp (74 kW / 100 PS) and 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) forms. The 1.5-liter BlueHDi will be discontinued, as it is not compatible with the upcoming Euro 7 emission regulations.
The 2024 Citroen C3 Aircross and E-C3 Aircross are set to debut in 2024, following the smaller E-C3’s introduction. We can expect to learn more about the B-SUV before then by closely scrutinizing future spy shots and potential teasers.