Powered by a fresh attitude and unique design, Citroen's new compact C3 Aircross SUV is ready to stake its claim in one of South Africa's popular segments.
It was first presented as a concept car at the Geneva Motor Show in 2017 featuring classic design cues most notable with the brand.
A different character
Innovation through comfort is the message conveyed on the inside with Citroën's Advanced Comfort programme giving passengers a comfortable and spacious ride.
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As you would expect of a modern day SUV, it is connected and equipped with a range of technologies including Keyless entry and start, a Lane Departure Warning System as well as Mirror Screen function, with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink - all of which is available on Shine models. Its range of driver assistance systems include Driver Attention Alert, Rear Parking sensors and Hill Start Assist.
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There are three colour options available, and one colour pack to choose from.
A 7-inch touchscreen on the Shine model, controls everything from the radio to the Satnav, giving you ultimate operation from the comfort of your seat.
Image: Motorpress
The exterior styling is unique in every aspect with a more robust look, larger 16-inch wheels and 'Venetian blind' rear quarterlights adding to its appeal and design approach. Buyers have the option to choose bigger 17-inch diamond-effect aluminium wheels available on the Shine model. It also comes with LED daytime running lights together with fog lamps for that added bit of exclusivity.
Class leading
Under the bonnet is a frugal 1.2 PureTech petrol engine mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. All of this culminates in a power figure of 81kW.
The interior is home to broad and comfortable seats, offering class-leading spaciousness and unrivalled boot space - up to 520-litres on the Shine model. Total load volume with the rear seats folded down is an impressive 1 289 litres. It is worth emphasising that the C3 Aircross features generous leg and headroom thanks to a wheelbase of 2.60-metres.
Image: Motorpress
There is even more usable space on offer with a range of storage compartments. The front passenger and driver door bins have room enough for a 1.5-litre bottle. while the passenger side can accommodate slim a number of slim objects.
Just like the flagship C5, the C3 features the best in drive comfort and that is largely down to its suspension. It has settings for all driving conditions, sound comfort, meticulous soundproofing and acoustics as part of the package.
All models come with a 5-Year / 100 000km Warranty & Service plan across the range with Citroen Serenity.
Compiled by: Robin Classen