The 2025 Citroën C3 Aircross has arrived in South Africa, blending a refreshed design with competitive pricing and family-friendly versatility. Starting at R274,900, with a turbo option at R361,900, this compact SUV offers a seven-seat configuration locally, making it a standout in its class. Here’s how it compares to the Hyundai Exter in SA’s budget SUV market.
2025 Citroën C3 Aircross
Design: A Modern, Rugged Look
The 2025 C3 Aircross adopts Citroën’s new design language, moving from rounded curves to sharp, straight lines inspired by the 2022 Oli concept. Measuring 4.39m long, 1.85m wide, and 1.66m tall—240 mm longer than its predecessor—it features a taller, squarer profile with 200 mm of ground clearance. Offered in bold Montana Green, this SUV brings a rugged, distinctive aesthetic to South Africa’s roads.
Powertrains: Efficient and Versatile Options
In South Africa, the C3 Aircross starts with a 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine, delivering 60 kW and 115 Nm via a five-speed manual—ideal for cost-conscious buyers. The 1.2L turbocharged variant ups the ante with 81 kW and 205 Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic for smoother urban and highway performance. Globally, a hybrid (82 kW petrol + 21 kW electric, 205 Nm, six-speed DCT) and the e-C3 Aircross (83 kW, 44 kWh battery, 320 km WLTP range) are offered, with a 400+ km electric version planned for late 2025—though only petrol models are confirmed locally so far.
2025 Citroën C3 Aircross Interior
Interior: Seven Seats and Modern Tech
The C3 Aircross features a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring connectivity for South African drivers. Its seven-seat configuration, available locally, adds versatility, with the third row folding into the boot floor—offering up to 511 litres of cargo space when stowed. Enhanced with Advanced Comfort Seats and hydraulic bump stops, it prioritizes ride quality, though some interior plastics reflect its budget positioning.
Pricing and Comparison: Citroën vs. Hyundai Exter
The C3 Aircross starts at R274,900 for the 1.2L manual (60 kW, 115 Nm), undercutting the Hyundai Exter’s R294,900 (61 kW, 114 Nm, five-speed manual). The turbo auto at R361,900 (81 kW, 205 Nm) provides a stronger option, still competitive with the Exter’s base model. The Citroën’s seven-seat capability and larger touchscreen give it an edge in practicality and tech, while the Exter offers a slight power advantage and a more polished design.
| Model | Power (kW) | Torque (Nm) | Price (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citroën C3 Aircross (Manual) | 60 | 115 | R274,900 |
| Citroën C3 Aircross (Turbo Auto) | 81 | 205 | R361,900 |
| Hyundai Exter (Manual) | 61 | 114 | R294,900 |
Why It Stands Out in South Africa
The 2025 C3 Aircross combines affordability with family-oriented features, positioning it as a strong player in South Africa’s compact SUV segment. Starting at R274,900, with a seven-seat option and a turbo variant at R361,900, it offers exceptional value and versatility. While the Exter’s styling may appeal to some, the Citroën’s spacious interior, modern tech, and competitive pricing make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking practicality.
Stay updated with DriveZA.net for the latest car news and reviews!
