Citroen E-C3 Aircross promises class-leading space and 186-mile range
Citroen has unveiled the new E-C3 Aircross as it continues to expand its all-electric model range.
The E-C3 Aircross is based on the same Smart Car platform as the regular E-C3 hatchback and the upcoming Vauxhall Frontera and Fiat Grande Panda, and sits alongside petrol and mild hybrid versions.
The E-C3 Aircross uses the same motor and battery as the E-C3 hatchback. In the larger, heavier crossover, that means a 186-mile range from a 44kWh battery. A maximum charging rate of 100kW means a top-up from 20-80% should take less than half an hour. Next year Citroen will add a larger battery option which will bring up to 250 miles of range.
Citroen has been coy about the acceleration from the E-C3 Aircross’s 111bhp motor, simply stating that it’s ‘sufficient’ to slot into everyday traffic with ease. It has confirmed that the car has a top speed of 84mph.
Its design draws heavily from the Oli concept unveiled in 2021, with a similar boxy look featuring flat bonnet and roof lines and a squared off nose and tailgate. The bluff front featuring Citroen’s new-look badge flanked by a chevron pattern and three-point light signature is borrowed from the Oli and shares a lot in common with the regular hatchback. Personalisation is available through swappable ‘colour chips’ on the front and rear fascias and there is a two-tone paint option offered in higher trim levels.
The Aircross is wider and significantly taller than the E-C3 hatch but at 4.39 metres, is the same length. Despite the small footprint, the regular petrol C3 Aircross comes with the option of seven seats – a segment first. Sadly for EV fans, the electric version is only offered in a five-seat configuration. However, Citroen says the five-seater offers class-leading interior space. The reclining 60/40 split rear bench is mounted further back than in the seven-seat version, offering 8cm more legroom than the segment average. There’s also 2.5cm more elbow room for the rear passengers, along with an impressive 460-litre boot with an adjustable floor.
In a step up for the smallest Aircross model, the E-C3 Aircross gets the Advanced Comfort seats already featured in larger, more expansion Citroens, along with the Advanced Comfort suspension for a ‘magic carpet’ ride.
The E-C3 introduces a ‘C-Zen Lounge’ concept with a fabric-covered dashboard, ambient lighting and 10.25-inch central touchscreen. A digital instrument display is set far back from the driver, right at the base of the windscreen, to create a pseudo head-up display. All versions feature a connected infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as automatic air conditioning, reversing camera and rear parking sensors. Assistance systems including cruise control and active lane keep assist also feature across the range.
On top of that basic Plus trim level, Max spec adds heated seats, steering wheel and windscreen, 3D navigation, wireless phone charging, blind spot warning, front parking sensors and a bi-tone exterior finish.
Sales of the E-C3 Aircross will begin in the autumn, with first deliveries before the end of the year. Pricing will be announced closer to orders opening but are expected to start at less than £25,000 for the all-electric model.
