CITROEN C3 AIRCROSS

Cheap crossover gets new look, new mechanicals, seven-seat option...

- WILL RIMELL

The fourth-generation C3 was reinvented with a major focus on affordability. And it is now followed by its bigger brother, the C3 Aircross, which follows a similar formula with a dollop of extra practicality.

The second generation of the compact SUV starts from just over £20,000. Only the Dacia Duster, at £18,000 in bare-bones form, undercuts it. However, most buyers are likely to opt for the more luxurious Max trim, tested here.

The Aircross's low price, as with the smaller C3, is thanks partly to Stellantis's new cost-saving architecture, called Smart Car. The new model makes the switch from the PFA1 platform, which dates back to the Peugeot 206.

The Smart Car platform allows for the fitment of both petrol and electric powertrains (the electric e-C3 Aircross is covered separately on the opposite page), and the C3 Aircross takes full advantage of this. Petrol buyers can choose from two set-ups, both with Stellantis's ubiquitous turbocharged 1.2-litre Puretech three-cylinder engine.

The entry-level model has 99bhp and a six-speed manual gearbox, or you can upgrade to a 134bhp hybrid system with an electric motor integrated into the six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

It offers a very simplified driving experience with just one drive mode and a fixed level of regenerative braking. It's able to drive on electric power for short distances and at lowish speeds.