Citroen’s new compact SUV gives drivers design choices

Buyers can’t get enough of SUV-style cars these days, it seems, and manufacturers are rushing to push out more new models.

This is Citroen’s latest endeavour. The C3 Aircross is a compact SUV that will go up against the Nissan Juke and Mazda CX-3. Prices start at a competitive £13,995 and it’ll go on sale at the beginning of November.

Customisation is at the heart of the C3 Aircross’s character, with 85 different personalisation combinations and distinctive design.

The car’s styling is defined by its strong graphic features such as the contrasting colour roof bars, and the rear ‘Venetian blind’ rear-lights.

The supermini SUV is available in three trim levels: Touch, Feel and Flair. Prices for the two higher specs start at £15,100 and £16,900, respectively.

The C3’s interior layout has been dropped in favour of a cleaner, more premium one that ditches several dashboard buttons thanks to the addition of a 7in infotainment touchscreen. The system includes smartphone mirroring and sat-nav and can also be accompanied by wireless smartphone charging.

Despite being just 15mm longer and 75mm taller than the rival Nissan Juke, the C3 Aircross can swallow much more luggage. It has 410 litres of space with its rear seats up and 1,289 litres with them folded down – 106 litres and 100 litres more than the Juke.

Adding to the car’s practical nature are rear seats that can slide forward and back by 15cm to prioritise legroom or boot space.

Buyers will have a choice of three diesel and three petrol engines. The petrols have between 108bhp and 128bhp, while the diesels range from 89bhp to 118bhp.

Being urban-focused, it’s two-wheel drive only but there is a “Grip Control” option that uses technical trickery to boost traction in rough weather conditions. There’s also a hill descent mode if off-roading becomes necessary.

The C3 Aircross is Citroen’s first compact SUV and goes on sale in November.