Its design is so fashionable and chic it’s hard not to take notice of it and the same goes for the interior too. The C3 Aircross is sure to attract people who have an appreciation for design and good looks.
And yet, it goes beyond aesthetics as the C3 is functional and spacious. Its powerful 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine that delivers 112PS and 205Nm of torque, and six-speed automatic makes the C3 a real go-getter.
Have style will travel
The review unit was the three-toned Natural White body colour with black and a vibrant orange trim. The splash of orange can be found on the bezel of the headlamp unit, side-mirrors, rims, roofrails and the C pillar.
This colour combination of white, black and orange makes it pop without being gaudy or over-the-top. The other colour options available are Soft Sand (which is the only other colour to offer the orange trim) and the rest are two-toned: Passion Red and Breathing Blue.
Where design is concerned there is an overarching theme of rectangles which is consistent on both the exterior and interior.
One can find it on the split grille, the headlamp units on the front and rear, the multitude of rectangles on the rims, the fuel tank lid and even the wheel arches.
A nice touch is the top grille with the sleek and slim Citroen emblem which blends nicely into the daytime running lights (DRLs).
With such design elements, the C3 Aircross comes across as well-dressed, sporty and fun.
Outside looking in
The theme of rectangles and orange trim remains consistent in the cabin on the flat-bottomed steering wheel and air-conditioning vents.
Rectangular patterns are further found on the meter cluster and door handles too. Even the round push start button has a rectangular border around it.
The dashboard has an overall rounded and clean design which accommodates the 7-inch touchscreen display with touch controls for climate control and navigation among others.
The analogue dials on the instrument cluster is also stylish with its wristwatch-like design for its markers, numerals and hands.
It also houses a digital information display for speed and fuel consumption in the middle. Another striking feature, which is becoming rare these days, is the handbrake which is a flat, rectangular head which Citroen calls its aviation style parking brake.
The fabric upholstered seats are also two-toned in two shades of grey with an orange stripe running across the front and rear seats.
Though the seats may look a bit thin, it is very comfortable once you’re seated. Rear passengers can also adjust the seats with its tilt and slide functions for more comfort and legroom.
It is also spacious for rear occupants in terms of headroom and legroom with a wheelbase of 2,600mm. Boot space is also generous with 410 litres and more can be had with folding the rear seats and removing the two-step boot floor to 520 litres.
Get your motor running
The C3 Aircross is a fun car to drive with its lively acceleration and adequate twisting force. The brake bite is good and necessary when one is driving enthusiastically.
It is easy to steer and being slightly tall gives you a good view of your surroundings. The C3 also handles well in straight line acceleration but there is a bit of roll in turns and bends but that is to be expected for an SUV.
In terms of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels it is good but you do get some engine noise into the cabin and you will notice the gear shifts yet it is all within acceptable levels.
It has useful driving aids such as the wide angle reverse camera and rear parking sensor as well as programmable cruise control and speed limiter.
Safety-wise, the C3 has six airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), brake assist and electronic stability programming (ESP).
The test unit came equipped with the Citroen Advance Safety Pack which features the Lane Departure and Warning System and Speed Limit Sign Recognition and Recommendation which is optional at an extra RM3,000.
Verdict
The C3 Aircross comes with a five-year or 120,000km warranty, with 24-hour roadside assistance and one-year access to the SkyLounge at Subang Skypark.
In conclusion, the C3 Aircross will appeal to those who like unconventional style and design all within a reasonable price range at RM115,888 (on-the- road without insurance).
It has personality and functionality without sacrificing driving pleasure and safety. And if it fits your fashion sense, this is the car for you.
SPECIFICATIONS
Citroen C3 Aircross
Engine: 1,199cc, 1.2L PureTech turbocharged petrol
Maximum output: 112PS at 5,500rpm
Maximum torque: 205Nm from 1,500rpm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic with Tiptronic
Features: LED daytime running lights (DRL), front and rear foglights, 17in wheels, keyless entry and push start button, 180 degree reverse camera, 7in Touch-drive interface with Mirror link, Android Auto, Apple Car Play, navigation and Bluetooth connectivity, sliding and tilt rear seats with 60:40 configuration, two 12V socket and one USB port, aviation style parking brake, sunshade blinders on second row seats, programmable cruise control and speed limiter, six airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), brake assist, electronic stability programming (ESP), two ISOFIX mounts
Price: 115,888 (on-the-road without insurance)
