Citroen C3 Aircross now one of South Africa’s least expensive SUVs

When the new-generation Citroen C3 Aircross was launched in July, as an Indian-built model adapted for emerging markets, it came at a significant discount over its predecessor.

And now the compact SUV model has become even more affordable with the release of the 1.2 Plus model.

At R269,900, it undercuts the C3 Aircross 1.2T Max by R85,000 and it also becomes one of South Africa’s least expensive SUVs, rubbing shoulders with the Nissan Magnite (from R246,200), Renault Kiger (R249,900) and Mahindra XUV 3X0 (R254,999).

The 4,323mm-long Citroen is also by far the biggest vehicle in its class, boasting a similar footprint to much more expensive vehicles like the Toyota Urban Cruiser.

But there’s a catch. Unlike the C3 Aircross Max model that was introduced this year, the new entry model is not turbocharged, making do with the normally aspirated 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, rated at 60kW and 115Nm. With the Aircross weighing a shade under 1.2 tonnes, this engine surely has its work cut out and there are question marks over how it might perform at Gauteng altitudes.

Power goes to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox and Citroen claims a fuel consumption figure of 6.2 litres per 100km.

The 1.2 Plus is decently equipped however, featuring a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, steering wheel controls, electric mirrors and rear park distance control.

Safety spec is impressive too, with six airbags and stability control featuring as standard.

The C3 Aircross 1.2T Max, for the record, costs R354,900 and comes with the 81kW turbocharged version of the 1.2 engine. LED headlights and automatic climate control are now fitted as standard to this model as part of a recent upgrade.

Versus the Plus model, it also features a digital instrument cluster, parking camera, electric-fold mirrors, 17-inch alloy wheels and a rear windscreen wiper.

The C3 Aircross range is sold with a five-year or 100,000km warranty and four-year or 60,000km service plan.

Pricing:

1.2 plus manual - R269,900

1.2T Max auto - R354,900

1.2T Max auto 7-seat - R364,900

IOL