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In the ever-competitive world of compact SUVs, Citroen has given its Aircross a bit of a facelift and a heart transplant. Dropping the ‘C3’ from its name, the Aircross SUV is now updated with features and a brand-new engine option, priced from INR 8.49 lakh to INR 13.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Bookings are now open, and deliveries kick off from October 8th.

With the ‘C3’ prefix gone, the Aircross SUV stands on its own, no longer tied to the C-cubed family nomenclature. But it’s not just a name change. The updates include both a new powertrain and some crucial features that should make it a more attractive option for those looking for a value-packed ride.

Here’s how the Aircross price list shakes out:

Variant New Price Old Price Difference
1.2 NA Petrol MT You INR 8.49 lakh
1.2 NA Petrol MT Plus INR 9.99 lakh
1.2 Turbo Petrol MT You INR 9.99 lakh
1.2 Turbo Petrol MT Plus INR 11.95 lakh INR 11.61 lakh Up by INR 34,000
1.2 Turbo Petrol MT Plus AT INR 13.25 lakh INR 12.91 lakh Up by INR 34,000
1.2 Turbo Petrol MT Max INR 12.70 lakh INR 12.26 lakh Up by INR 44,000
1.2 Turbo Petrol MT Max AT INR 13.99 lakh INR 13.56 lakh Up by INR 43,000

For starters, Citroen is offering a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine with 82hp and 115Nm of torque, borrowed from its smaller sibling, the C3 hatchback. While it may not knock your socks off, this engine is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox and offers a lower entry price for the SUV. The more familiar 108 bhp 1.2-litre turbo-petrol remains, now available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic.

This is actually a torque-converter unit, and not an AMT!

Then, there’s the feature list. Citroen has added automatic climate control, LED headlamps on higher trims, and improved overall usability with the relocation of rear power-window buttons to the rear door pads. There’s a rear AC vent now, along with soft-touch materials on the dash, a flip key, and a bigger front armrest. Six airbags are now standard across the range, making the Aircross a safer ride for all occupants.

But that’s not all. The top trims come with a 10.25-inch infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, along with a host of connected car features. Citroen also gives you the option to add a third row of seats for an additional Rs 35,000.

While the Citroen Aircross faces some fierce competition from the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos (or Carens), Maruti Grand Vitara, and Honda Elevate, its pricing positions it on the more affordable end of the segment. It’s not the flashiest SUV out there, but with its new features and a lower starting price, the Aircross has quietly made itself a more compelling option for those seeking an entry-level SUV that doesn’t skimp on essentials.