Citroen C3 Aircross: India-spec vs Europe-spec Model Compared

Citroen has revealed the new C3 Aircross compact SUV in the European market. While it shares its name with the India-spec model, everything that’s offered in the Euro-spec is completely different from what we get here. It has a more modern design, an upmarket cabin with plentiful features and even greener powertrains including an all-electric version. 

So without further ado, here’s an in-depth comparison of the India-spec and Euro-spec C3 Aircross. 

C3 Aircross Exterior Design 

At first glance, it looks like the India-spec C3 Aircross went to Zudio for selecting its outfit, while the Euro model chose to head to Marks and Spencers for its top hat. What we are coming to say is that while the silhouette looks similar, the Euro-spec model with its upmarket design touches clearly looks more modern and sophisticated.

Up front, the LED lighting elements and new Citroen logo clearly give it an air of modernity as opposed to the basic halogen setup in our car. And while both the models sit on large 17-inch alloys, the Euro-spec car gets a more tasteful design. Keen eyed viewers will also notice that it gets grab-type door handles as opposed to the flap-type one of ours. 

The rear-end also looks smarter in the overseas model, courtesy of the sharply styled LED tail lamps and a tweaked bumper design. 

C3 Aircross Interior Design 

The differences between the India-spec car and Euro-spec car are day and night on the inside. The Euro-spec model gets a totally different layered dashboard setup that looks way more modern and upmarket than our car. Keen eyed viewers will also notice that the international-spec model gets a two-spoke steering wheel as opposed to the three-spoke one offered here. 

One common thing between both the cars is the fact that they are available with 5-seat and 7-seat layout. The only nitpicking with the Euro-spec model that we came across is the tiny digital driver’s display as opposed to the larger 7-inch unit in our car. This brings us to the features list. 

C3 Aircross Features Onboard 

While both cars come with a large enough touchscreen infotainment system, the European model clearly takes the lead here. It comes with amenities such as an automatic climate control, wireless phone charger, a head-up display and auto dimming IRVM.

Even the safety list is more comprehensive with six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, front and rear parking sensors, electronic parking brake and most importantly, ADAS. 

C3 Aircross Engine Options

In India, the C3 Aircross is offered with just a single 110 PS 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine, teamed with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. 

In contrast, the Euro-spec model gets plenty of options. The base one is a 100 PS 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine, paired with a 6-speed manual. If you want an automatic, your choice is limited to the 136 PS 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine teamed with an e-DCT. This engine also gets a 48V mild-hybrid tech for torque boost and improved fuel economy. 

And lastly, the Euro-spec model also comes with an all-electric option. It relies on a 114 PS e-motor that takes juice from a 44 kWh battery pack, projecting to deliver over 300 km. Citroen also says a long range version will be introduced with a larger battery pack down the road. 

C3 Aircross Price

The C3 Aircross in Europe is priced from €19,400 to €27,400 (Rs 17.48 lakh to Rs 24.55 lakh). In contrast, the India-spec model costs from Rs 9.99 lakh to Rs 14.33 lakh (ex-showroom). It’s clear that the Euro model is the more attractive one, considering its more attractive looks, upmarket cabin, loads of features and multiple engine options. We hope some of these updates are passed on to the India-spec model to keep it more relevant amongst our buyers.