Citroen C3 compact SUV revealed; India launch in 2022
The Citroen C3 compact SUV has been unveiled internationally today. It is the first of three models in Citroen’s C-cubed program, which was created with growing markets like India and South America in mind. The C3 is said to have a localisation rate of over 90 percent in India.
Citroen C3 design
Interestingly, while the C3 has crossover characteristics, Citroen does not refer to it as a compact SUV. Citroen CEO Vincent Cobee describes the vehicle as a “hatchback with a twist.” Part of the reason is that Citroen is developing a more upright small SUV for India, which is likely to follow the C3.
The C3 sports a funky look thanks to a pair of split-LED headlights with double-slat grille that links the two components on the front fascia. The Citroen emblem is elegantly integrated into the grille, and it blends well with the headlamp cluster’s LED Daytime Running Lamps.
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It has a lot of black cladding all around, which adds to the rugged look. Orange highlights on the front bumper and side cladding, blacked-out pillars and roof rails, and dual-tone diamond-cut alloy wheels round out the package.
The new C3’s tailgate is rather upright, with rectangular taillamps on both ends and a dual-tone bumper. The C3 appears to be a smaller version of the C5 Aircross, which is the French brand’s debut vehicle in India.
The interior has a vivid orange panel that runs the length of the dashboard which continues the funky design theme that Citroen is known for. The panel’s dimpled appearance is intriguing, as are the complex-looking air-conditioning vents. Many will find this cabin to be overstyled.
Citroen C3 features
A 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity will take centre stage on the dashboard. Along with the screen, there’s a handy phone holder.
Official pics show a hefty three-spoke steering wheel and a digital instrument cluster, but internal mirror adjustment, manual air-conditioning controls, and a single-piece front seat with integrated headrests also imply cost savings.
Citroen C3 engine and gearbox
In India, the Citroen C3 will be powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine. There will be no diesel engine available. A 5-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic are said to be the gearbox choices.
Citroen C3 India launch date
This vehicle is confirmed to launch in India in 2022. In fact, its production is said to start at Stellantis’ Chennai plant from December 2021 itself.
The Citroen C3 will be cheaper than most traditional compact SUVs in India. Its price will more likely be at par with that of the Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite, both of which are value for money champions in the compact SUV space.
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