Citroen C3 Aircross Automatic review - Auto gearbox makes a big difference | Autocar India

Summary

The Citroen C3 Aircross automatic variant was recently launched with a smoother 6-speed torque converter paired to the 1.2L turbo petrol engine. While not as quick shifting as a dual clutch, it provides better refinement. The C3 impresses with a comfortable ride, attractive styling, and great packaging, though it falls short on features. Priced attractively, the automatic expands its appeal. Overall, the well-priced C3 Aircross is practical and smooth, making it competitive in the crowded midsize SUV segment.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Citroen C3 Aircross automatic variant has been launched in India
• 🚗 It is powered by the same 1.2L turbo petrol engine; torque is higher by 15Nm with the automatic gearbox
• ⚙️ The automatic gearbox is a 6-speed torque converter unit sourced from Aisin
• ✅ The automatic variant feels smoother to drive than the manual version
• 👍 It has good low speed ride quality and soaks up bumps nicely
• 🛣️ High speed stability is also good; however, vertical movements are felt at the rear
• 🎉 The automatic gearbox suits the C3 Aircross well for city driving conditions
• ❌ Lacks some key features like sunroof, ventilated seats, auto climate control
• 💲 Priced attractively as always, with the automatic variant about Rs 1 lakh over manual
• 👍 Strong value proposition with smooth engine-gearbox, ride quality and interior space

Q & A

What changes have been made to the C3 Aircross with the new automatic variant?

The key changes are a new 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission sourced from Aisin, 15Nm more torque from the 1.2L turbo petrol engine for a total of 205Nm, and some additional features over the manual variant.

How does the torque converter gearbox affect the performance?

The automatic gearbox makes the C3 Aircross feel more refined and eager in city driving conditions compared to the manual, but lacks some of the shift quickness of dual clutch gearboxes. There is a slight hesitation when kicking down at highway speeds.

What are some highlights of the ride and handling of the C3 Aircross?

Key ride and handling highlights are the light and easy to maneuver steering, good high speed stability, a soft suspension that absorbs bumps very well for comfort, and decent overall balance between ride and handling.

What features are still missing in the C3 Aircross automatic?

Some key missing features are a sunroof, ventilated seats, auto climate control, and more. There has also been some cost cutting seen in the door handles, key, lack of rear window controls, and AC knobs.

How practical is the C3 Aircross for carrying passengers and luggage?

Passenger space is ample even for tall adults in both rows, with a reclining 2nd row. The optional 3rd row is very tight and best for kids. Uniquely, the 3rd row seats can be removed to allow a maximum luggage space of 511 liters.

What is the expected pricing of the C3 Aircross automatic variant?

Official pricing is not announced yet, but expected to be around Rs. 1 lakh over the equivalent manual variant. For reference, the manual variants range from Rs. 9.99 lakhs to 12.97 lakhs currently.

What are some strengths of the C3 Aircross?

Key strengths are attractive styling, good space and packaging, smooth and eager engine performance (especially with the new automatic), impressive ride quality and stability, and most importantly an aggressive pricing positioning.

What customer segment does the C3 Aircross automatic appeal to?

The automatic gearbox significantly broadens the appeal to customers who desire the convenience and smoothness it offers in urban conditions, over the manual variant of the C3 Aircross which caters more to enthusiastic drivers.

How does the C3 Aircross compare to rivals like Creta and Seltos?

The C3 Aircross competes closely with Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos in the hotly contested mid-size SUV space, with the automatic helping close feature gaps. It is weaker in some premium feel aspects but offers great practicality and pricing.

What is the takeaway recommendation on the C3 Aircross automatic?

It is an SUV that nails the fundamentals like space, comfort, pricing and now smoothness of the auto gearbox too. Hence it is easy to recommend, especially for city use, if you can overlook some missing premium features.