Citroën is morphing its C3 Picasso replacement into a compact crossover as it targets the Nissan Juke and other rivals. We take a look at what the new model brings.

As with the Peugeot 3008 and 5008, the forthcoming C3 Aircross moves away from its MPV origins to bring a more dynamic SUV with a modular design and a large opening panoramic glass sunroof. 

Building on the C-Aircross concept shown at the Geneva Motor Show, the C3 Aircross shares a platform with the new C3 but is 20mm higher, while also bearing an elevated driving position, front and rear skid plates, large wheels and wheel arch extensions to mark out its crossover status.

Citroën also puts the focus on practicality for the compact crossover – slightly shorter and lower than the Juke, the C3 Aircross is said to bring class-leading head- and legroom and boot space of between 410-520 litres with the sliding rear seat in place, rising to 1,289 litres maximum – compared to 354/1,189 litres respectively for the Juke. The C3 Aircross also offers a dual-height boot floor, a removable luggage shelf that can be stored behind the rear seats and a folding front passenger seat that enables it to accommodate loads up to 2.4m.

Citroën also promises an unprecedented number of personalisation options with up to 90 exterior colour combinations, including four roof colours for two-tone models and four ‘Colour Packs’, plus five interior design schemes, depending on the market.

Linda Jackson, Citroën CEO, commented: ‘Bringing together all of Citroën’s expertise in cabin space, modular design and comfort, this people-minded SUV stands out in the B SUV-segment with its unique body styling. It has a different mind-set, a source of protection and adventure, consistent with the expectations of customers today.”

Engines:

The C3 Aircross is available with a choice of the BlueHDi 120 S&S diesel with a six-speed manual gearbox or the BlueHDi 100 manual. Petrols cover the PureTech 82 engine with a manual gearbox, the PureTech 110 S&S engine with manual or the EAT6 automatic and the PureTech 130 S&S with a six-speed manual gearbox.

The C3 Aircross also offers Citroën’s Grip Control system, with five driving modes that include Sand, All-Road, Snow or ESP OFF, a Hill Descent Assist system, and the option of special 16-inch and 17-inch mud-and-snow tyres.

Tech:

As well as Grip Control and Hill Descent Assist, the C3 Aircross also offers 12 driver assistance systems, depending on the market, including park assist, the active safety brake AEB technology and colour head-up display.

A 7-inch touchscreen is also featured with four connectivity technologies available, covering wireless smartphone charging, mirror screen functionality, connected 3D navigation with voice recognition plus the Citroën Connect Box featuring the carmaker’s Emergency & Assistance system.

Launch details:

The new C3 Aircross will be produced at the Zaragoza plant in Spain and launches in Europe and worldwide over the coming months.

The reveal of the C3 Aircross comes as both Hyundai and Kia also enter the hotly contested compact crossover segment this year, while Volkswagen is also planning on entering the fray with a model based on the T-Roc concept seen at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show.

As part of its international SUV offensive, Citroën is also targeting the Qashqai sector with its C5 Aircross SUV, which will join the range in 2018 complete with a PHEV AWD model.

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