Citroen C3 Aircross Max debuts in SA: It’s bigger and over R100,000 cheaper
Citroen wants to make a far bigger impact on the South African compact SUV market with the new C3 Aircross Max.
As with its C3 hatch sibling that was launched in 2023, the new C3 Aircross is now sourced from India and it has been adapted to suit emerging markets. Which means it’s not going to be as plush or chic inside, but you are getting more metal for your money.
For starters, the C3 Aircross has grown in size, and now also offers a seven-seat option (or 5+2 as Citroen calls it). At 4,323mm, the newcomer is 181mm longer than its predecessor, putting it into contention with the Suzuki Grand Vitara and Renault Duster.
But it’s the price tag that will raise the most eyebrows in its segment.
The Citroen C3 Aircross 1.2T Max is priced at R344,900, while the seven-seat version is stickered at R354,900. That’s just over R100,000 less than what Citroen charged for the previous, European-built version.
Power comes from the familiar 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol unit, which produces 81kW and 205Nm, and Citroen claims a combined fuel consumption figure of 6.3 litres per 100km.
There’s no four-wheel drive option, but ground clearance is listed at an impressive 200mm, which is 22mm higher than before.
What features does the new C3 Aircross Max come with?
As you’ve seen, there is only one specification grade and it ticks most of the comfort and safety boxes without being too extravagant.
Inside, it’s equipped with a 10.0-inch touchscreen with rear-view camera, 7.0-inch TFT cluster, leather-covered multi-function steering wheel and manual air conditioning, with additional roof-mounted air vents for the second and third rows.
Safety kit includes dual front airbags, ABS brakes and ESP stability control.
Externally it comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, with a full-size spare, front fog lamps and LED daytime running lights, but the headlamps are conventional halogen units.
Customers can choose between four monotone colour options - Cosmo Blue, Polar White, Artense Grey and Platinum Grey - and within these are six dual-tone options that feature a white, grey or blue roof depending on the main colour selected.
The new Citroen C3 Aircross is sold with a four-year or 60,000km service plan and the warranty is good for five years or 100,000km.