Can this outdo the Dacia Jogger?

The new Citroën C3 Aircross is set to challenge the Dacia Jogger as the most affordable seven-seater when it is released later this year.

Styling cues have been taken from the Citroën C3 and at just 4.39m long with a 2.67m wheelbase, the C3 Aircross is shorter than a Jogger and is available in both a five and seven-seat configuration. Some of the 460-litre boot space will have to be sacrificed in order to house two extra seats, though this won’t affect the body shape of exterior dimensions.

Customers will be able to choose between different powertrains for the C3 Aircross. What is likely to be the entry-level version will be powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine giving 100hp with a manual gearbox. For those looking for a little more economy, a hybrid version combines the 1.2-litre engine with electric power giving 136hp and the ability to travel at low speeds solely on electric power.

And those willing to fully take the plunge into the future can go for the full EV version which pairs a 113hp electric motor and 44kWh battery. That will give around 186 miles of range (a 250 mile range battery is expected to come next year) but is only available as a five-seater. The 100kW maximum charging speed can do a 20-80% charge in 26 minutes. Like the Vauxhall Frontera, C3 and upcoming Fiat Grande Panda, the C3 Aircross uses the Smart Car platform from Stellantis.

Inside, there’s a 10.25-inch central touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It is a similar minimal interior design to the C3, although passengers will be sitting more comfortably on Citroen Advanced Comfort seats. USB-C charging is available on the first and second rows, while the top of the range model has a 15W wireless charger in the front. There is also a whole host of safety assist technology to make your journey smoother.

Orders will open for the C3 Aircross from September and prices for the entry level petrol version are likely to be a few thousand more than the £18,295 the Dacia Jogger currently demands.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Citroën - Stellantis