Citroen C3 Aircross Makes Global Debut In India
Citroën has revealed the All-New C3 Aircross in India for Global. The new C3 Aircross is a Midsize-SUV that is tough outside and caring inside, and intelligently created to meet the specific needs of Indian customers.
The SUV combines a unique, muscular, and bold design, with signature Citroën comfort and well-being, plus versatility in the segment for up to 7 people. Unmistakably Citroën, All-New C3 Aircross is a tough and distinctive SUV available in both 5-seater and 5+2-seater versions and targeted for launch in India in second half of 2023.
All-New C3 Aircross is the second in a family of three new models specifically aimed at international growing markets under Citroën’s C-Cubed programme, announced in 2019, and being marketed between 2022 and 2024.
The Midsize-SUV is developed and produced locally – at the Thiruvallur plant in Tamil Nadu with over 90 per cent localisation. This ensures customers satisfaction that allows faster parts availability and overall lower cost of ownership.
“Citroën plans to grow globally by entering high-potential markets with affordable, locally-tailored products. Our goal is to achieve 30 per cent of sales in international markets outside Europe by 2025. Our aim is to compete successfully with local players while providing an easy ownership journey for our customers. The All-New C3 Aircross a 4.3m midsize SUV, marks a significant step for Citroën to reach a new group of customers looking for an appealing, value-for-money, and spacious family Midsize-SUV that offers versatility of seating up to 7 people.” says Thierry Koskas, Citroën CEO.
Citroën has worked hard to ensure the 4.3m long, 5 and 5+2-seater All-New C3 Aircross is the right vehicle at the right time to enter the fast-growing and highly competitive Midsize SUV segment in the Indian market.
“The All-New C3 Aircross is a highly-localised midsize SUV that caters to the needs of the Indian market, where SUVs hold a 40 per cent market share. This vehicle has been designed with insights from Indian customers and developed at Citroën's R&D and engineering centers in India and Europe. The vehicle assembly and powertrain plants in Thiruvallur and Hosur respectively will be instrumental in efficiently manufacturing the vehicle in India. Citroën is confident in meeting the requirements of this new group of Indian customers.” adds Roland Bouchara, CEO and Managing Director of Stellantis India.
“The attributes of a vehicle reflect the owner's lifestyle and status, making styling and features equally important factors in the buying decision. The versatility of the C3 Aircross will help solve the varied mobility needs of Indian families, who enjoy life on the move. We have made every effort to make the All-New C3 Aircross desirable and accessible to these families.” says Saurabh Vatsa, Citroën Head, India.
Key to the success of Citroën’s C-Cubed programme is the collaborative effort between Citroën India teams and the company’s designers and engineers. Specifically for All-New C3 Aircross, this involved thorough research into the physical conditions in India, and extensive conversations with customers to ensure this Midsize-SUV fully meets their wants and needs. Data that emerged from customer clinics directly influenced the final styling, design and features of the All-New C3 Aircross.
All-New C3 Aircross features an assertive front face with a high bonnet, wide track width, Citroën Y-shaped lighting signature, and powerful double grille with a lower skid plate to deal with varying road conditions and maximise cooling. In silhouette, it stands out with its 200mm ground clearance, muscular wheel arches with large wheels and tyres, and resilient protective claddings.
The wide C-pillar adds verticality and strength to the body, while neat rear quarter windows add to the feeling of light and space for passengers. Windows and long rear doors enhance the feeling of height, light and visibility, and allow easy access to the rear rows of seats.
All-New C3 Aircross is particularly roomy. The 5-seater model offers one of the best knee room for rear seat passengers and up to 444-litres of luggage volume, while the 5+2-seater model adds intelligent modularity for multiple uses, with a third row of two individual seats. These can be folded down or removed individually when the family needs to balance the room for passengers with up to 511-litres capacity for luggage.
The bright, spacious and smartphone-friendly interior is extremely well equipped, and embodies Citroën’s acknowledged 360-degree approach to comfort and occupant well-being. Supremely comfortable seats combine with a powerful climate and air-conditioning system to keep everyone relaxed, particularly in the second and third rows of the 5+2-seater version thanks to a roof mounted blower. Thoughtful storage solutions throughout include cup holders that double as smartphone holders in the second and third rows so occupants can power their connectivity and stay in touch or entertained on the move.
To enhance their pride of ownership, customers can also personalise their vehicle by choosing from a range of themed packs and accessories tailor-made to market expectations and designed to add character, street presence and value. Additionally, Citroën’s signature contrasting roof colours create an eye-catching dual tone effect for owners who want to add extra touch of personalisation to their vehicle.
