Citroen has big plans for its smallest SUV, the C3 Aircross, that will get an all-new second generation in 2024. Our spy photographers caught a camouflaged prototype of the new model during winter testing in Northern Sweden, giving us an early look at its design and revealing its enlarged footprint.
The new C3 Aircross appears to be significantly longer compared to its predecessor. According to the latest reports from France, the model is expected to measure around 4,300 mm (169.3 inches) long, representing a healthy increase over the 4,150 mm (163.4 inches) of the current generation following the trend in the B-SUV segment. This change will bring it very close to the 4,360 mm (171.7 inches) long C4 but maintain a safe distance from the 4,510 mm (177.6 inches) long C5 Aircross.
Read: 2024 Citroen C3 Aircross Coming With A Larger Footprint In Mild Hybrid And EV Forms
Camouflage wrap is covering every inch of the prototype but the lighting reflections from different angles give us hints of the surfacing. At the front, the split headlights look similar to the C4, the intakes have grown larger, and the bonnet is longer making it look more like a proper SUV.
The boxy fenders on the profile appear to be more pronounced than before, and the wheelbase is clearly stretched. We can also see the angular window line, likely with black-painted B-pillars creating a floating roof effect. The tail of the prototype is more heavily camouflaged so we can’t see much besides the upright rear glass, the large tailgate, and a small portion of the LED taillights.
The interior is not visible in the spy shots but chances are it will be overhauled following the example of newer models from Citroen. As with the previous generation, the C3 Aircross will focus on comfort, practicality, and affordability, distinguishing itself from the numerous offerings in the B-SUV segment. The larger footprint will endow it with a more spacious cabin, likely with increased legroom for the rear passengers and more space for luggage.
The current first-gen Citroen C3 Aircross was originally introduced in 2017 with a facelift following in 2021. Alongside the Opel Crossland, they are the only remaining Stellantis B-SUVs based on the old PSA PF1 architecture, with the rest of the pack using the more modern CMP / eCMP platform. The second-gen C3 Aircross will finally make the move into the new underpinnings, sharing them with the likes of the Peugeot 2008, Opel Mokka, Jeep Avenger, DS 3 Crossback, and Citroen’s own C4 and C4 X.
Under the bonnet of the new Citroen C3 Aircross we expect to see Stellantis’ new turbocharged 1.2-liter mild-hybrid petrol engine. Peugeot has already shown us a variant with 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), but there are reports about a less powerful variant. Judging from the rest of the Citroen range, there is a high chance we will see a fully electric e-C3 Aircross using the same single-motor powertrain and battery with its siblings.
We will learn more about the 2024 C3 Aircross as we move closer to its debut next year. Before the small SUV arrives, the automaker will unveil the new generation of the mechanically-related Citroen C3 supermini, giving us more hints about the evolved styling language and most likely shared powertrain options.
