Citroën has officially launched the new Aircross X in India, priced starting at ₹9.77 lakh (ex-showroom). The new model boasts a host of updates, including enhanced features, improved safety ratings, and a more refined design. The launch is part of Citroën’s strategy to strengthen its presence in the competitive Indian SUV market.
Citroën Aircross X: What’s New?
Exterior Design and Styling Updates
The Citroën Aircross X introduces several exterior design updates to enhance its appeal in the Indian market. Notably, the SUV comes in a new Deep Forest Green color, adding a fresh option to the existing palette. The introduction of black roof rails and subtle ‘X’ badging on the tailgate sets this model apart from the standard Aircross variants, giving it a sportier look that aligns with the preferences of younger consumers. The SUV also retains its characteristic compact SUV design, making it suitable for urban driving while maintaining road presence.
The Aircross X also features a muscular front fascia, with bold LED DRLs that complement the larger grille. The vehicle’s squat, athletic stance gives it a modern, dynamic aesthetic that will likely appeal to young professionals and families looking for a blend of practicality and style.
Enhanced Interior Features and Technology
Inside, the Citroën Aircross X offers several upgrades aimed at improving both comfort and convenience. One of the standout features is the inclusion of ventilated front seats, offering added comfort during hot weather. The SUV is equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, providing an advanced interface for navigation, media, and connectivity. Additionally, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster enhances the driver’s experience by providing clear, customizable information.
The cabin is designed to offer a premium feel, with soft-touch materials on the dashboard, a well-designed steering wheel, and quality upholstery. The focus is on making the driving experience more enjoyable for both short city commutes and long highway drives.
For added convenience, the Aircross X includes a wireless phone charger, push-button start, and keyless entry—features that are becoming increasingly standard in modern vehicles. Another notable addition is Citroën’s proprietary AI-powered voice assistant, named “CARA.” This voice assistant supports 52 languages, enabling hands-free control over a variety of functions, from media to climate control.
Advanced Safety Features
Safety remains a key priority in the new Citroën Aircross X, with the model earning a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, highlighting its strong crash protection and safety features. Standard safety equipment includes six airbags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Hill-hold Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and ISOFIX child seat mounts. These features reflect Citroën’s commitment to providing a high level of safety for both the driver and passengers.
Moreover, the vehicle comes equipped with automatic headlamps, rear parking sensors, and an advanced anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). These features ensure that the vehicle performs well in diverse driving conditions, from heavy traffic in cities to open highways.
Powertrain Options and Performance
The Aircross X comes with a choice of two petrol engines, catering to different driving needs. The base variant is powered by a 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine, which delivers 80 bhp and 115 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. For those seeking more power, the Aircross X also offers a 1.2L turbocharged petrol engine, producing 109 bhp and 190 Nm of torque in the manual version or 205 Nm in the automatic variant. The turbocharged engine is available with both a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission, offering flexibility in performance.
Additionally, Citroën offers an eco-friendly CNG retrofit option, available through authorized dealers. This option allows consumers to switch to a cleaner fuel alternative, reflecting the growing demand for more sustainable vehicle options.
Pricing and Variants
The Citroën Aircross X is available in multiple variants, offering flexibility to suit a range of budgets and preferences. The variants and their prices (ex-showroom) are as follows:
- You (5-seater): ₹8.29 lakh
- Plus (5-seater): ₹9.77 lakh
- Plus (7-seater): ₹11.37 lakh
- Max (7-seater): ₹12.34 lakh (manual) / ₹13.49 lakh (automatic)
These prices position the Aircross X competitively in the SUV segment, making it an attractive option for consumers looking for a feature-rich vehicle without breaking the bank.
Color Options and Customization
The Citroën Aircross X is available in several color options, including the new Deep Forest Green. Other colors in the lineup include:
- Polar White (available in dual-tone)
- Steel Grey
- Platinum Grey (available in dual-tone)
- Cosmo Blue (available in dual-tone)
- Perla Nera Black
- Garnet Red (only available in dual-tone)
The dual-tone roof options are available at an additional cost of ₹20,000, giving customers the opportunity to personalize their vehicle’s appearance.
Citroën’s Journey in India: Building Trust and Expanding Presence
Citroën made its entry into the Indian market in 2021, with the launch of the C5 Aircross. Since then, the brand has steadily gained ground, positioning itself as a premium alternative to more established players in the market. The Aircross X is a strategic move to tap into the rapidly growing compact SUV segment, which has seen a surge in demand in India.
The Aircross X is manufactured locally in India, which helps Citroën reduce production costs and better align with the local market’s demands. Local manufacturing also allows Citroën to pass on cost savings to customers, thus making the vehicle more competitively priced. This approach is also consistent with the Indian government’s push for self-reliance in manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Comparing the Citroën Aircross X with Competitors
The compact SUV segment in India is one of the most competitive, with major players like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza dominating the market. While these competitors are well-established, the Citroën Aircross X offers a unique blend of European styling, advanced features, and a strong emphasis on comfort.
The Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos both offer a range of engine options and advanced safety features, but the Aircross X sets itself apart with its spacious 7-seater option, futuristic technology, and unique styling. Additionally, Citroën’s focus on comfort, with features like ventilated seats and a premium cabin, gives it an edge for consumers looking for a more refined driving experience.
Future Prospects: Sustainability and Innovation
As the demand for environmentally friendly vehicles grows, Citroën has taken significant steps to include a CNG variant in the Aircross X. However, the company’s future plans may also include electric vehicles (EVs). Citroën’s global strategy is focused on innovation, and India may eventually see electric or hybrid versions of the Aircross, catering to the growing market for EVs in the country.
The government of India is also providing incentives for electric vehicle manufacturers, and Citroën could leverage these benefits to introduce more eco-friendly models in the near future.
Customer Response and Expectations
The initial response to the Citroën Aircross X has been largely positive, with customers praising the vehicle’s premium features, advanced technology, and stylish design. Early reviews from automotive experts also highlight the vehicle’s solid build quality and driving comfort. Many expect the Aircross X to perform well in the competitive compact SUV market, especially given the increasing preference for feature-rich and stylish vehicles.
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Conclusion
The launch of the Citroën Aircross X represents a significant step for the French automaker as it seeks to expand its footprint in the Indian automotive market. By combining stylish design, modern technology, and competitive pricing, Citroën aims to appeal to a wide audience in one of the world’s fastest-growing car markets. With strong safety features, advanced technology, and a variety of powertrain options, the Aircross X is set to make an impact on the Indian SUV segment.
