DESIGN & ENGINEERING

UNDERNEATH the C3 Aircross’s skin – which is more curvaceous than the Arona’s – is Citroen’s PF1 platform. This is older than the MQB architecture on which the SEAT sits, but with its roots stretching back into the previous decade it has at least had plenty of development.

As with the C3 supermini, Citroen has employed its Advanced Comfort philosophy with the Aircross. This means the chassis set-up and elements inside the cabin focus more on practicality and comfort compared with the sportier SEAT.

It feels the most Suv-like model here. The Aircross boasts 20mm more ground clearance than the C3 on which it’s based, and while the wheelarch extensions and skid plates underneath might be more for style than substance, it helps to differentiate the Aircross as more of an SUV.

There are two versions of the 1.2 Puretech three-cylinder turbo available: a 128bhp unit and the 108bhp motor we test here. The higher-powered car gets a six-speed manual, while our version makes do with a five-ratio transmission. Neither is particularly enjoyable to use. However, while none of these three cars will really be used off-road, the Aircross does offer Citroen’s Grip Control system with hill descent assist for £400. This alters the ESC’S parameters with Snow, Sand and All-road modes.

Flair trim boasts plenty of equipment as standard. Sat-nav, DAB, Bluetooth, cruise and climate control plus parking sensors are all included – and you get lots for your money as the C3 is £1,895 cheaper than the Arona, while it also has a similar level of kit to the Stonic but undercuts it by £1,695.