The Citroen Aircross stands as a bold testament to the French automaker’s vision of blending practicality, style, and affordability in the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment. Launched in India in September 2024, this SUV—previously known as the C3 Aircross—shed its “C3” prefix to carve a distinct identity under Citroen’s evolving portfolio. Built on the modular C-Cubed platform shared with the C3 hatchback, the Aircross offers a refreshing alternative to the crowded midsize SUV market, where giants like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara reign supreme. With its quirky design, versatile seating options (5 or 7 seats), and a focus on comfort over gimmicky features, the Aircross targets buyers seeking value-driven motoring without compromising on essential driving dynamics.
Citroen, a brand synonymous with innovation since its inception in 1919, has tailored the Aircross for emerging markets like India and South America, where practicality and cost-effectiveness are paramount. Unlike its European counterpart, which caters to urban lifestyles with a smaller footprint, the Indian-spec Aircross stretches to 4.3 meters, offering a spacious cabin and a robust stance that appeals to family-oriented buyers. Available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol variants, this SUV promises a balance of efficiency and performance, complemented by a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. Its standout features—like removable third-row seats, a high ground clearance of 200 mm, and a rugged yet stylish exterior—position it as a unique contender in a segment often dominated by feature-heavy rivals.
This detailed exploration will cover the Citroen Aircross from every angle: its technical underpinnings, variant lineup, pricing across metro cities, and a deep dive into its design, performance, and market positioning. We’ll also compare it with close competitors to understand where it shines and where it falls short. Whether you’re a prospective buyer or an automotive enthusiast, this guide aims to provide a comprehensive picture of what the Aircross brings to the table in 2025.
Technical Specifications
The Citroen Aircross offers two engine options—a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol and a turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol—catering to different driving needs. Below is a tabular breakdown of its technical specifications, compiled from CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, reflecting the latest updates as of March 2025.
| Parameter | 1.2L Naturally Aspirated Petrol | 1.2L Turbocharged Petrol |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 1199 cc | 1199 cc |
| No. of Cylinders | 3 | 3 |
| Max Power | 81 bhp @ 5750 rpm | 108.62 bhp @ 5500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 115 Nm @ 3750 rpm | 190 Nm @ 1750 rpm (MT) / 205 Nm @ 1750 rpm (AT) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual | 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Automatic (Torque Converter) |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 17.5 kmpl | 18.5 kmpl |
| Drivetrain | FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) | FWD (Front-Wheel Drive) |
| Length | 4323 mm | 4323 mm |
| Width | 1796 mm | 1796 mm |
| Height | 1665 mm (with roof rails) | 1665 mm (with roof rails) |
| Wheelbase | 2671 mm | 2671 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 200 mm | 200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 litres | 45 litres |
| Boot Space | 444 litres (5-seater) / 511 litres (with 3rd row removed) | 444 litres (5-seater) / 511 litres (with 3rd row removed) |
| Kerb Weight | 1230-1309 kg (variant-dependent) | 1230-1309 kg (variant-dependent) |
| Tyre Size | 215/60 R17 | 215/60 R17 |
| Suspension (Front) | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Suspension (Rear) | Rear Twist Beam with Coil Spring | Rear Twist Beam with Coil Spring |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc / Drum | Disc / Drum |
These specifications highlight the Aircross’s focus on delivering a practical yet peppy driving experience, with the turbo variant offering superior power and torque for highway cruising, while the naturally aspirated version keeps costs and fuel consumption in check for city use.
Variants
The Citroen Aircross is available in a range of variants, offering flexibility in seating and features. As of March 2025, the lineup includes three primary trims—You, Plus, and Max—with sub-variants for turbocharged engines, automatic transmissions, and 7-seater configurations. Below is a tabular summary based on data from CarDekho and CarWale.
| Variant | Engine | Transmission | Seating | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| You | 1.2L NA Petrol | 5-Speed MT | 5 | Dual Airbags, ABS with EBD, TPMS, Reverse Sensors |
| Plus | 1.2L NA Petrol | 5-Speed MT | 5 or 7 | 10.2-inch Touchscreen, Rear AC Vents, Fog Lamps |
| Turbo Plus | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-Speed MT | 5 or 7 | Turbo Engine, 17-inch Alloys, Keyless Entry |
| Turbo Plus AT | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-Speed AT | 5 or 7 | Automatic Transmission, Hill Hold Assist |
| Turbo Max | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-Speed MT | 5 or 7 | 7-inch Digital Cluster, 6 Airbags, Leatherette Seats |
| Turbo Max AT | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-Speed AT | 5 or 7 | Auto Climate Control, Rear Camera, Steering Controls |
| Turbo Max AT 7-Seater DT | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-Speed AT | 7 | Dual-Tone Roof, Top-Spec Features |
The You variant serves as the entry-level option, appealing to budget-conscious buyers with essential safety features. The Plus trim adds creature comforts, while the Max variants, especially with the turbo engine and automatic gearbox, cater to those seeking a premium experience. The 7-seater option, unique in this segment, enhances its family-friendly appeal.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Citroen Aircross varies across metro cities due to differences in taxes, registration fees, and insurance costs. Below is a table of on-road prices (ex-showroom + RTO + insurance) for key variants in major Indian metro cities, sourced from CarDekho and ZigWheels, accurate as of March 2025.
| Variant | Delhi (₹ Lakh) | Mumbai (₹ Lakh) | Bangalore (₹ Lakh) | Chennai (₹ Lakh) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| You | 9.62 | 9.85 | 9.90 | 9.75 |
| Plus | 11.18 | 11.45 | 11.50 | 11.35 |
| Turbo Plus | 14.06 | 14.35 | 14.40 | 14.25 |
| Turbo Plus AT | 14.91 | 15.20 | 15.25 | 15.10 |
| Turbo Max | 14.91 | 15.20 | 15.25 | 15.10 |
| Turbo Max AT | 16.72 | 17.00 | 17.05 | 16.90 |
| Turbo Max AT 7-Seater DT | 16.72 | 17.00 | 17.05 | 16.90 |
Prices start at an attractive ₹8.49 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base You variant, making it one of the most affordable midsize SUVs in India, while the top-end Turbo Max AT 7-Seater DT reaches up to ₹14.55 lakh (ex-showroom), undercutting many rivals.
About the Citroen Aircross
Design and Styling
The Citroen Aircross stands out with its quirky yet rugged design, a hallmark of the brand’s European heritage. At the front, a split headlamp setup features LED projector lights paired with integrated LED DRLs, connected by Citroen’s signature double-slat chrome grille. The muscular bonnet and flared wheel arches, clad in black plastic, enhance its SUV stance, while circular fog lamps and contrast-colored skid plates add a touch of flair. The side profile is clean and balanced, with 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and silver roof rails amplifying its bold character. At the rear, C-shaped LED taillights, an integrated spoiler, and a chunky skid plate complete the look. Available in seven colors—including Polar White, Cosmo Blue, and dual-tone options like Platinum Grey with Polar White Roof—the Aircross exudes a modern, adventurous vibe.
Inside, the cabin mirrors the C3 hatchback’s layout but elevates it with practical touches. The two-tone dashboard is stylish yet functional, housing a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. While the materials are hard-wearing rather than plush, semi-leatherette seats, a premium driver armrest, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel add a hint of sophistication. Cost-cutting is evident in manual AC controls and the absence of a sunroof, but the focus on space—offering 444 liters of boot space (expandable with the removable third row)—makes it a practical choice for families.
Performance and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the Aircross offers two powertrains. The 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine delivers 81 bhp and 115 Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. It’s ideal for city driving, offering a claimed mileage of 17.5 kmpl, though its modest power can feel underwhelming on highways. In contrast, the 1.2L turbo petrol engine, producing 108.62 bhp and up to 205 Nm (with the automatic), is the star performer. Available with a 6-speed manual or a smooth 6-speed torque converter automatic, it shines with refined power delivery and excellent low-end torque, making overtaking effortless. The turbo variant’s 18.5 kmpl mileage is impressive for its class, balancing efficiency with pep.
The Aircross’s ride quality is a standout feature, thanks to its well-tuned suspension—MacPherson struts up front and a twist beam at the rear. It absorbs bumps and potholes with ease, delivering a plush, comfortable experience even on rough Indian roads. The 200 mm ground clearance ensures it tackles speed breakers and mild off-road patches confidently, though its FWD layout limits serious off-roading. Steering is responsive, if not overly sharp, and high-speed stability is commendable, making it a versatile companion for both urban and highway drives.
Features and Technology
Citroen adopts a minimalist approach to features, prioritizing essentials over gimmicks. Base variants like You get dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and TPMS, while higher trims like Turbo Max add a 7-inch digital driver’s display, 6 airbags, a reverse camera, and hill-hold assist. The infotainment system, with its crisp graphics and smartphone connectivity, is a highlight, though the lack of automatic climate control and a sunroof may disappoint some. Practical touches include five USB ports (including for the third row), large door pockets, and a removable third-row seat, enhancing its utility.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is a mixed bag. While all variants come with dual airbags as standard, top-spec models upgrade to six airbags, aligning with Citroen’s promise to bolster safety across its lineup by mid-2024. Features like ABS with EBD, hill-hold, and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) are standard, but the Aircross hasn’t been tested by Global NCAP yet, leaving its crashworthiness unrated. Citroen’s build quality feels robust, and its service network, though limited compared to rivals, is expanding, offering peace of mind with affordable maintenance costs.
Practicality and Seating
The Aircross’s biggest USP is its flexible seating. The 5-seater configuration offers ample legroom and headroom in both rows, while the 7-seater variant, with its removable third row, caters to larger families. Accessing the third row is easy via a tumbling second-row seat, though space is best suited for kids or short trips due to limited headroom and low seat height. With the third row removed, boot space jumps to 511 liters, making it a practical hauler for luggage or weekend getaways.
Market Positioning and Value Proposition
Priced between 8.49 Lakh and 14.55 Lakh (ex-showroom), the Aircross undercuts most midsize SUV rivals, offering a compelling value-for-money proposition. It doesn’t compete on feature count but excels in space, comfort, and driving dynamics—qualities that resonate with buyers prioritizing substance over style. Citroen’s aggressive pricing, coupled with periodic discounts, positions it as an affordable alternative to established players.
Close Competitors
The Citroen Aircross faces stiff competition in India’s crowded midsize SUV segment. Here’s how it stacks up against its key rivals:
Hyundai Creta
- Price: 11 Lakh – 20 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 1.5L NA Petrol, 1.5L Turbo Petrol, 1.5L Diesel
- Key Features: Sunroof, Ventilated Seats, Level 2 ADAS, 10.25-inch Touchscreen
- Comparison: The Creta offers a broader engine lineup and a feature-rich cabin, appealing to tech-savvy buyers. However, it’s pricier, and its ride quality doesn’t match the Aircross’s plushness.
Kia Seltos
- Price: 10.90 Lakh – 20 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 1.5L NA Petrol, 1.5L Turbo Petrol, 1.5L Diesel
- Key Features: Panoramic Sunroof, 360-degree Camera, Wireless Charging
- Comparison: The Seltos dazzles with premium features and sharp styling but lacks a 7-seat option and comes at a higher cost. The Aircross counters with affordability and seating flexibility.
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Price: 10.88 Lakh – 19.97 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 1.5L NA Petrol, 1.5L Hybrid
- Key Features: Hybrid Option, AllGrip AWD, 9-inch Touchscreen
- Comparison: The Grand Vitara’s hybrid efficiency and AWD option give it an edge, but it’s a 5-seater only. The Aircross offers more seating versatility at a lower entry price.
Honda Elevate
- Price: 11.73 Lakh – 16.67 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 1.5L NA Petrol
- Key Features: ADAS, 10.25-inch Touchscreen, Sunroof
- Comparison: The Elevate brings Honda’s reliability and a refined engine, but it’s limited to 5 seats and lacks a turbo option. The Aircross provides more power and seating choices.
Tata Curvv
- Price: 10 Lakh – 19 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 1.2L Turbo Petrol, 1.5L Diesel
- Key Features: Coupe Design, Flush Door Handles, Large Touchscreen
- Comparison: The Curvv’s futuristic design and diesel option stand out, but it’s a 5-seater. The Aircross offers a simpler, more practical package at a competitive price.
The Aircross differentiates itself with its 7-seat capability, plush ride, and budget-friendly pricing, though it cedes ground to rivals in terms of features and engine variety.
Final Thoughts!
The Citroen Aircross is a breath of fresh air in the midsize SUV segment, blending European flair with Indian practicality. Its bold design, spacious cabin, and flexible seating make it a strong contender for families and value-seekers. While it lacks the bells and whistles of rivals like the Creta or Seltos, its focus on comfort, drivability, and affordability—backed by a potent turbo engine and a cushy ride—sets it apart. With prices starting at 8.49 Lakh, it’s an enticing option for those who value substance over flash. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on a weekend escape, the Aircross delivers a compelling mix of versatility and charm, proving that sometimes, less is indeed more.
