Citroen facelift C3 Aircross, local timing TBC

JUST three days after Peugeot Citroen Australia (PCA) revealed and detailed its facelifted C3 light hatch, the updated C3 Aircross light SUV has made its global debut however an Australian arrival is yet to be locked in.

Sporting an “entirely redesigned” front-end, Citroen says the new C3 Aircross was inspired by the CXperience concept car with a much more layered look to the arrangement as well as a concave-looking new chin.

The headlights – now LED – have also been redesigned, as have the chrome trim pieces spanning the front fascia and encompassing the badge.

No major changes have been made to the layout of the cabin, however the interior does score the same new Comfort seats as the C3 hatch as well as a new 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen.

While local pricing, timing and specification details are yet to be confirmed, Citroen has announced some of the global standard equipment and safety kit, including keyless entry, park assist, ‘top rear vision’ reversing camera and ‘grip control’ with hill assist descent.

According to Citroen chief executive Vincent Cobée, the brand was hoping to mature the image of the C3 Aircross while simultaneously upping the comfort stakes.

“C3 Aircross still expresses all its modernity and originality with a true SUV attitude, an unmatched roominess and modularity and technologies that make everyday life easier,” he said.

“The result is very perceptible! Its face changes radically with a much more angular and assertive front-end, the new seat construction reinforces the well-being experience inside the vehicle.

“The new C3 Aircross ticks all the boxes of an SUV by Citroen and has all the assets to continue its commercial success.”

Other subtler changes to the C3 Aircross include an expanded colour palette and an enlarged centre console storage bin.

No changes have been confirmed for under the bonnet, suggesting the facelifted model will continue on – locally at least – with the familiar turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine good for 81kW/205Nm, as shared with the C3 – GoAuto has contact PCA for confirmation.

PCA sold three examples of the current C3 Aircross last month, accounting for just 0.1 per cent of the booming light SUV segment.