Citroen has had a fairly eventful 2023, having launched the eC3 and the C3 Aircross during the year. For 2024, the French brand has plans to bring in the C3X high-riding sedan and the all-electric eC3 Aircross SUV, and introduce a 6-speed torque convertor automatic for the C3 hatch and C3 Aircross. Read on to know when the new models are expected and what they’ll offer. In the ever-evolving Indian automotive landscape, Citroen stands poised to make waves with its expansion plans. With four models already on sale, including the C3, eC3, C3 Aircross, and C5 Aircross, the French carmaker has been progressively establishing its presence in the country. Recent spottings of the C3X, Aircross AT, and Aircross EV undergoing testing in India have sparked anticipation among enthusiasts.
1. Citroen C3X: The Compact Marvel
The Citroen C3X, set to join the Indian lineup, promises to be a compact marvel that seamlessly blends style and functionality.
The C3X design embraces the length and shape of a sedan along with the raised stance and design cues of an SUV. The spyshots hint the same and the car could have a coupe- or notchback-like styling with a sloping roof and tailgate. This crossover nature should ensure loads of room inside and will come with features we have seen from the automaker. First, we expect the ICE version to be launched, followed by an electric version later.
While Citroen has yet to confirm exactly when, the French company is expected to bring an Aisin-sourced 6-speed automatic transmission for the C3 hatchback and C3 Aircross SUV. The addition of automatic variants will help both models plug considerable holes that exist in Citroen’s India portfolio. The torque convertor automatic is likely to be paired with an upgraded, third-generation version of the current 110hp, 1.2-litre petrol engine, which Citroen has planned to localise heavily.
2. Aircross AT: Elevating the SUV Experience
Citroen's Aircross AT, spotted during testing, is poised to elevate the SUV experience in the Indian market.The carmaker also plans to bring in automatic variants of the C3 Aircross. We expect a six-speed torque convertor gearbox to be introduced along with a retuned engine for the SUV. It's most likely that it will be introduced to other models and will be heavily localised too.
Citroen eC3 Aircross — electric version of the C3 Aircross
Citroen's latest launch C3 Aircross will also get an electric version by the end of next year. All these new cars are based on the heavily localised common modular platform (CMP). The latter supports both ICE and electric cars. Unlike the eC3 hatchback that uses a 29.2kWh battery, the eC3 Aircross is expected to get a bigger battery and extended range. Like the current ICE version, the electric version could also be offered in five- and seven-seater configurations.
Citroen’s fifth offering in India, the Citroen C3, is a unique proposition – it’s a midsize sedan that combines fastback styling and an SUV-like high ground clearance. Although it’ll compete on price and size with lower variants of the Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Skoda Slavia and VW Virtus, the only other model that will give it a run for its money in the high-riding, fastback-like sedan category will be the upcoming fresh spy shots show new design details" Tata Curvv. Based on the same heavily localised common modular platform (CMP) as the C3, eC3 and C3 Aircross, the C3X will also share their equipment list. Power will come from the 110hp, 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. An electric derivative is also likely to be introduced a few months after the ICE version arrives.
Citroen's Vision for 2024 and Beyond
Citroen's expansion plans go beyond introducing new models. The company has been actively inaugurating new dealerships, expanding its network to ensure accessibility for customers across India. The addition of the C3X, Aircross AT, and Aircross EV signifies Citroen's commitment to diversifying its product portfolio and catering to a broader audience.
As Citroen gears up for an eventful 2024, the anticipation among automotive enthusiasts is palpable.