Citroen is developing another model tailored for emerging markets, leveraging the underpinnings of the New C3 and New C3 Aircross. The forthcoming C3 X will feature a sedan body style, with the French brand integrating styling elements from crossover vehicles.
A prototype of the Citroen C3 X was spotted undergoing testing near the Arctic Circle in Scandinavia, despite the model being destined for markets like India and South America rather than Europe. The trick camouflage attempts to conceal the new compact sedan by giving it the appearance of an SUV, complete with a crude roof extension.
The production model is expected to combine the face of the New C3 with a liftback tail similar to the EU-market C4 X. It’s expected to feature higher ground clearance and plastic cladding for a more rugged appearance.
Citroen’s aims to offer an alternative contender to compete with the more conventional sedan rivals in the segment, such as the Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Skoda Slavia, and VW Virtus. The C3 X is expected to inherit the dashboard design from the New C3, featuring a prominent 10-inch infotainment screen positioned atop the center console.
More: Here’s Everything We Know About The 2024 Citroen C3 Aircross Junior 7-Seater Crossover
The new member of the C3 family will most certainly ride on the tried-and-tested CMP architecture. It will reportedly debut with the turbocharged 1.2-liter PureTech three-cylinder engine producing 108 hp (81 kW / 110 PS), and a choice between a manual or a torque-converter automatic gearbox. A fully electric version is rumored to follow in 2025, likely mirroring the specs of the New eC3.
The Citroen C3 X was initially expected to debut in mid-2024, but the latest reports suggest that its launch has been delayed. According to Autocar India, the reason behind the delay is that Citroen wants to add more standard features to the model, following the Indian customers’ less-than-ideal response to the spartan New C3 Aircross.
