The second generation of the C3 Aircross will grow in size and offer a choice between mild hybrid and fully electric powertrains
We’ve updated this story with new and more accurate renderings along with the freshest intel on the sub-compact crossover. (12/1)
The small SUV market in Europe is thriving, and automakers are striving to cater to their customers’ diverse requirements. Citroen’s upcoming C3 Aircross aims to take on the larger end of the segment in terms of size and practicality, featuring a three-row, 7-seater configuration. Despite this, the price is anticipated to be quite affordable, creating a budget-friendly family SUV with options for mild hybrid and fully electric powertrains.
Last month, the 2024 Citroen C3 Aircross made an unexpected cameo in an official teaser during the unveiling of the brand-new e-C3 electric supermini. Utilizing the hints from the teaser, our artists have crafted new renderings of this B-segment or sub-compact SUV, complemented by the most up-to-date details on its specifications and features.
More: 2024 Citroen e-C3 Debuts As A Budget-Friendly EV With A 199-Mile Range
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The official teasers of the 2024 Citroen C3 Aircross
The C3 Aircross is expected to look similar to the “New C3 Aircross” that was unveiled in May 2023 for emerging markets like India, Southeast Asia, and South America. Nonetheless, despite the common components, the European-spec version will stand out with a more contemporary exterior design, a chassis setup tailored to the region, and an array of advanced safety and technology features.
As indicated by the teasers and the speculative renderings, the C3 Aircross draws inspiration from the 2022 Citroen Oli concept, presenting a beefier rendition of the e-C3 supermini. Notable design features include Citroen’s fresh oval-shaped double-chevron badge, a prominent front fascia devoid of a traditional grille, contemporary LED headlights, and substantial cladding resembling oversized skid plates encircling the bumper intakes.
Our renderings of the EU-spec C3 Aircross (above) compared to the New C3 Aircross (below) for emerging markets.
The side profile and greenhouse are expected to be identical to those of the New C3 Aircross, with the goal of reducing production and development costs. Consequently, the new generation is likely to grow in size, potentially aligning with the 4.32 meters (170.1 inches) length of its South American counterpart, which surpasses its predecessor’s length by 170 mm (6.7 inches). Additionally, distinctive futuristic aerodynamic wheels and revamped LED taillights will serve to distinguish the two models, rendering the C3 Aircross more in line with European preferences.
Spacious 7-Seater Interior Closing Down On Compact SUVs
The roomy and practical interior is poised to be a key selling feature of the 2024 Citroen C3 Aircross. Despite belonging to the sub-compact SUV (B-SUV) category, Citroen has affirmed that the model will offer a spacious three-row, 7-seater configuration. It’s worth noting that the only other option in this price range with a similar number of seats is the Dacia Jogger.
The larger footprint compared to the outgoing model will translate to more space for passengers and their luggage, bringing the C3 Aircross closer to the larger C5 Aircross. Citroen’s reputation for emphasizing comfort over sportiness suggests that the sub-compact SUV will likely get the plushy Advanced Comfort seats and a brand-specific suspension setup giving it a pillow-y ride.
Interior shots of the Citroen New C3 Aircross and the EU-spec e-C3 supermini
Despite its value-focused positioning, the model is expected to offer a range of new technology features. The dashboard is likely to incorporate the new Citroen Head Up Display, compensating for the absence of a traditional instrument cluster. Additionally, we anticipate the inclusion of a free-standing 10.25-inch infotainment display, a new double-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel with integrated buttons, and ample storage compartments throughout the dashboard, center console, and door panels.
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 make the jump to the new “Smart Car” architecture which is a derivative of the CMP/eCMP. The same stretched version of the new architecture will be used in the next-gen Opel Crossland, which is also coming in 2024 continuing the sibling relationship with the Citroen C3 Aircross.
The platform’s compatibility with mild-hybrid and fully electric powertrains has been demonstrated by the Citroen e-C3. While most Stellantis electric vehicles feature a 154 hp (156 PS / 115 kW) electric motor, the e-C3 Aircross could potentially adopt the less powerful 111 hp (83 kW / 113 PS) unit found in the e-C3. It remains uncertain whether the two models will share the same 44 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery pack, or if the seven-seater crossover will upgrade to the larger 54 kWh battery, potentially providing it with an extended driving range.
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 Citroen C3 Aircross and E-C3 Aircross are set to debut in 2024, following the smaller E-C3’s introduction to the European market. Besides the closely related Opel Crossland, rivals will include the new generation of the Dacia Duster and the seven-seater versions of the Dacia Jogger.
Note: The independent renderings in this story have no affiliation with Citroen.