The small SUV market is without doubt one of the most overcrowded within the nation, however this new machine has separated from the pack.
Small SUVS are 20 cents a dozen today – each automotive model has one – however Citroen’s C3 Aircross brings a mix of fashion and substance few can match. However there’s one huge catch.
Right here is every thing you should know in regards to the C3 Aircross.
VALUE
Citroen has closely curated its C3 Aircross menu – providing only one properly geared up model priced at $32,990 (earlier than on-road prices) or about $37,000 on the street. The one possibility is a selection of metallic paints.
This entry-level value places the C3 Aircross out of attain of most patrons on this section and properly above Information Corp’s Automotive of the 12 months successful Skoda Kamiq at $29,990 drive-away.
However there’s loads of customary equipment with patrons handled to distinctive alloy-wheels and loads of comfort options.
Head-turning type with a cool and trendy contrasting roof and again window venetian-blind like decals – give the sensation the C3 would match proper in at a Paris Style Week set up.
Citroen ensures the C3 Aircross for 5 years/limitless km. Servicing prices are excessive at $2623 over 5 years.
COMFORT
For a automotive clearly geared toward a younger city driver, the C3 Aircross ticks all of the packing containers to make it an interesting package deal.
Connectivity is taken care of by Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and satnav accessed by means of a seven-inch touchscreen. Consumers will benefit from the wi-fi system charging pad and heads-up show.
There’s a few oddities within the cabin together with the distinctive handbrake that appears like its from a 747 jumbo jet and a gear shifter that doesn’t merely go backwards to vary driving mode however shifts in a jagged, unfamiliar method.
Material seats lack the heating perform of most top-shelf rivals, however are agency and supportive. Entrance seat imaginative and prescient is nice due to a excessive seating place.
Again seat room is nice, however passengers must survive on rations with no aircon vents and just one 12-volt charger.
SAFETY
Security is a giant promoting level on this section and Citroen has kitted out the C3 Aircross commendably.
Normal driver aids together with auto emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, auto headlights and rain sensing wipers, reversing digital camera and entrance and rear parking sensors.
The C3 Aircross obtained a 5 star crash score in Europe and the quantity of normal security gear means it might get related marks in Australia.
DRIVING
On paper the C3 Aircross doesn’t sound like an ideal drive, however on the street it surprises.
The mixture of slightly 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine (81kW/205Nm) and a slick six-speed auto work properly collectively. Whereas this sounds underpowered, it’s ample to maneuver the C3’s model-esque 1200kg.
It isn’t overly quick off the mark, but it surely feels zippy round city and the three-cylinder turbo has a gruff and charming grumble.
Gentle and direct steering coupled with a supple trip and properly insulated cabin make for a commute that leaves you smiling. Plus its small dimensions make it nimble and ideally suited for tight interior metropolis streets and older automotive parks.
Gas use is rated at 6.6L/100km, which is so much thirstier than VW’s and Skoda’s choices that return about 5L/100km. It’s nearer to Mazda CX-Three’s 6.1L/100km, however you will have to fill the Citroen with costlier premium unleaded.
VERDICT Three.5/5
The C3 Aircross has because the French say, a sure “Je ne sais quoi” – an intangible high quality it’s exhausting to place your finger on.
There may be nothing fairly just like the C3 amongst its rivals. It has a mix of fashion and substance that rivals don’t, however whether or not it’s price the additional spend is up for debate.
ALTERNATIVES
Volkswagen T-Cross Fashion, from $32,990 drive-away
Candy driving and polished styling. Cabin a bit underdone and DSG auto could be clunky at low speeds.
Skoda Kamiq, from $29,990 drive-away
Extraordinarily properly geared up at a cut price basement value. Enormous wheelbase gives ample inside house. DSG could be indecisive off the mark.
Mazda CX-Three Akari LE, from about $37,990 drive-away
Very properly geared up with an aesthetic cabin and ample security. Cramped cabin.
CITROEN C3 AIRCROSS VITALS
Worth: From $32,990 earlier than on-roads
Engine: 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol, 81kW/205Nm
Guarantee/servicing: 5-year, u’ltd km / $2623 over 5 years
Security: 5-stars, auto emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, pace signal recognition, auto headlights and wipers, reversing digital camera
Thirst: 6.6L/100km
Boot: 410L