Great new model

The Citroen C3 Aircross is a beefed-up version of the standard C3. What’s it like out on the road? Aidan Rennie-jones has been to Corsica to find out

The C3 Aircross is an entirely new model for Citroen, but is based on the same platform as the C3 hatchback, Vauxhall Crossland X and Peugeot 208. However, those who are familiar with the current C3 hatchback will see design traits carried over including the infotainment system and funky fabric seats which are available in five colour combinations.

There are two engines to choose from with varying power outputs. The one in our test car was a 1.6-litre diesel with 120bhp. A lesserpowered 100bhp model is also available. Both come with a five and six-speed manual gearbox respectively. Our car was fitted with the six-speed manual, which felt very precise through the gears and is a real improvement on the gearbox in the C3 hatchback. A 1.2-litre petrol unit is also available

with either 82bhp, 110bhp or 130bhp.

Out on the open roads of Corsica, the C3 Aircross felt very impressive. Not only did it drive like a confident crossover, it has the capabilities to match. This is thanks mainly to a large amount of ground clearance and hill descent control which were both especially helpful when tackling some exceptionally steep dirt tracks down the mountains. This inspiring confidence is retained on the tarmac too where the Aircross really feels stable through the bends unlike other crossovers. tier lighting. Look beyond that though and you notice it has no airbumps on the side but does have chunky ‘rough and tough’ plastic trim along the wheel arches. There’s also a lot of stylish colour combinations – eight colours and three exterior roof colour packs. bizarre and yet wonderful rubber textile used on the dashboard that makes it feel unique. The entire cabin has five colour combinations to choose from. Our car had a space-age like tweed-effect material on the seats and really stood out.

the base Touch model and rise to £19,720 for the range-topping Flair model. Each has different amounts of equipment choices, with the top-spec Flair coming with pretty much everything. This was certainly the case with our car which had Citroen’s connect touch screen sat nav and infotainment system, Bluetooth, 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, keyless start, and Citroen’s emergency and assistance system.