First Drive: Citroen C3 Aircross - The Smallest Seven-Seater SUV Put to the Test

First Drive: Citroen C3 Aircross - The Smallest Seven-Seater SUV Put to the Test

By Michael Harrison

February 6, 2025 at 04:23 AM

The Citroen C3 Aircross offers a unique proposition in the crowded SUV market - seven seats packed into a body just 10cm longer than a Volkswagen Golf. This compact yet versatile vehicle bridges the gap between small crossovers and traditional seven-seat SUVs.

Citroen C3 Aircross hybrid SUV front

Citroen C3 Aircross hybrid SUV front

The C3 Aircross shares its core design with the standard C3 hatchback but features a longer rear overhang and extended roofline to accommodate extra passengers. Its rugged styling includes two-tone paint options and protective plastic cladding around the wheelarches.

Black Citroen C3 Aircross near ocean

Black Citroen C3 Aircross near ocean

Available Configurations:

  • Five-seater: 460-liter boot capacity and increased rear legroom
  • Seven-seater: Third-row seating suitable for children, with ISOFIX points in the middle row's outer seats

Back seats in Citroen C3 Aircross

Back seats in Citroen C3 Aircross

Practicality Considerations:

  • Seven-seater boot space: 330 liters with third row folded
  • Minimal cargo space with all seats in use
  • Fold-out board provided to cover seat gaps when folded

Citroen C3 Aircross open cargo space

Citroen C3 Aircross open cargo space

Interior Features:

  • 10.3-inch infotainment screen
  • Wireless smartphone mirroring
  • Digital instrument display
  • Fabric-covered surfaces for improved aesthetics

Engine Options:

  • 1.2-liter petrol (100hp, manual)
  • 1.2-liter hybrid (136hp, automatic)
  • Electric e-C3 Aircross (113hp, five-seater only, 185-mile range)

Black Citroen C3 Aircross by ocean

Black Citroen C3 Aircross by ocean

Driving Characteristics:

  • Soft suspension prioritizing comfort
  • Light steering ideal for urban use
  • Best suited to relaxed driving style

Interior dashboard view of C3 Aircross

Interior dashboard view of C3 Aircross

Pricing:

  • Petrol version starts from £20,000
  • Electric e-C3 Aircross from £23,000

Verdict: The C3 Aircross excels as a versatile five-seater with occasional seven-seat capability. While not suited for regular seven-adult use, it offers excellent value for families needing flexible seating options in a compact package. Consider the Dacia Jogger for more space or the Skoda Fabia/MG ZS for simpler five-seat alternatives.

Related Articles

Previous Articles