Citroen e-C3 Aircross: An In-Depth Review
What the Citroen e-C3 Aircross Is?
The Citroen e-C3 Aircross emerges as a practical and affordable electric SUV, aiming to cater to families without breaking the bank. With a starting price of £25,000, it offers a compelling option for eco-conscious drivers. The vehicle is 4.39 meters long, demonstrating its larger size compared to the sleek e-C3 hatchback. It incorporates Oli-inspired design elements, including a sharply vertical nose and a colossal new Citroen logo. Additionally, it is equipped with functional roof rails that can handle up to 200 kg, making it ideal for accessories like rooftop tents or bike racks.
Interior and Features
The interior of the Citroen e-C3 Aircross, referred to as the “C-Zen interior,” has been designed with minimalism in mind, offering a clear and uncluttered view for the driver and front passenger. Notably, the "heads-up display" projects essential information onto a black section of the dashboard rather than the windshield. Each version includes a 10.25-inch color infotainment touchscreen angled towards the driver, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, the vehicle boasts a 460-liter boot space, rivalling the likes of the Kia Niro EV and VOLKSWAGEN ID.3.
Battery, Charging, and Efficiency
The e-C3 Aircross employs a 113 hp electric motor, similar to the e-C3 and Vauxhall Frontera. Available with either a 45 kWh or 54 kWh battery, it offers an official range of 186 to 250 miles. The smaller LFP battery is bulkier but more durable, whereas the NMC battery offers a higher energy density. Both versions support 100 kW DC fast charging, allowing a 20-80% charge in just 26 minutes. Standard AC charging is also available at up to 11 kW.
Performance and Driving Experience
With a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 12.9 seconds and a top speed of 145 km/h, the e-C3 Aircross offers sufficient power for daily driving needs. Despite its moderate power output, it is designed for efficiency and practicality rather than sheer performance. The sturdy build and functional roof rails further enhance its versatility, making it a reliable family vehicle.
Real-World Range and Practicality
The real-world range varies significantly based on weather conditions, with cold weather reducing the range to approximately 175 km on highways and 250 km in the city. In mild weather conditions, the range extends to 285 km combined, with city driving reaching up to 380 km. Practical features like the 50/50 reclining rear seats enhance comfort, making it an appealing choice for families.
Citroen e-C3 Aircross Pricing and Value for Money
Starting at around $29,180 (approximately £25,000), the Citroen e-C3 Aircross offers a competitive price point in the electric SUV market. Its blend of affordability, range, and practical features make it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious consumers. This value-for-money aspect sets it apart, appealing to those who seek an efficient yet economical family vehicle.
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F.A.Q. about Citroen e-C3 Aircross:
What is the range of the Citroen e-C3 Aircross on a single charge?
The Citroen e-C3 Aircross offers a range of up to 380 kilometers (236 miles) on a single charge in mild weather conditions, and around 250 kilometers (155 miles) in cold weather.
How long does it take to fully charge the e-C3 Aircross?
The e-C3 Aircross can reach 20-80% battery capacity in just 26 minutes using a 100kW DC fast charger. A full charge takes approximately 7-9 hours with a standard 7kW home wall station.
Are electric vehicles more expensive than gasoline cars?
Electric vehicles, including the Citroen e-C3 Aircross, typically have a higher upfront cost compared to gasoline cars. However, lower operating and maintenance costs can offset the initial investment over time.
What is the price of the Citroen e-C3 Aircross?
The starting price of the Citroen e-C3 Aircross is approximately £25,000, which is around $29,180 or €27,000, making it an affordable option in the electric SUV market.
What is the battery capacity of the Citroen e-C3 Aircross?
The Citroen e-C3 Aircross is available with a 45 kWh lithium-ion battery, offering sufficient capacity for daily driving needs with an official range of up to 380 kilometers.
How does the Citroen e-C3 Aircross’s acceleration compare to other electric vehicles?
The Citroen e-C3 Aircross accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 12.9 seconds, which is moderate compared to other electric SUVs. It prioritizes efficiency and comfort over high-speed performance.
Can the e-C3 Aircross be charged at any charging station?
Yes, the Citroen e-C3 Aircross can be charged at most public charging stations, as well as at home using a standard wall outlet or a more efficient home wall station.
Comparison of Citroen e-C3 Aircross:
The Citroen e-C3 Aircross situates itself squarely within the family-focused, budget-friendly electric SUV market. Squaring off against contenders like the Kia Soul EV, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Peugeot e-2008, the e-C3 Aircross aims for practicality and affordably while delivering a competent range and decent performance metrics.
Range Comparison
The Citroen e-C3 Aircross presents a commendable range of 380 km (236 miles), rivalling the Kia Soul EV at 452 km (281 miles) and the Hyundai Kona Electric with 449 km (279 miles). The Peugeot e-2008 offers slightly less, capping its range at 340 km (211 miles). So, if covering long distances without frequent charging stops is your quest, the e-C3 Aircross stands its ground valiantly.
Acceleration and Power Comparison
In terms of acceleration, the Citroen e-C3 Aircross takes a leisurely 12.9 seconds to sprint from 0-100 km/h, clocking a top speed of 145 km/h (90 mph). Contrastingly, the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Soul EV jump to 100 km/h in faster times of 9.9 seconds and 7.6 seconds respectively. The Peugeot e-2008 lands somewhere in the middle, with a respectable 9.0 seconds for the same feat.
Power and Performance Comparison
Generating 113 hp, the e-C3 Aircross doesn’t promise breakneck speeds but focuses on efficacious and practical driving habits. The Kia Soul EV and Hyundai Kona Electric offer around 201 hp, clearly outshining the Citroen in terms of raw power. The Peugeot e-2008, too, provides a more robust performance at around 136 hp. Yet, it's worth noting that more horsepower translates to higher prices and possibly more maintenance expenditures, a trade-off the Citroen circumnavigates adeptly.
Charging Time Comparison
Speeding up the e-C3 Aircross’s appeal is its 100 kW DC fast charging capability, letting you juice from 20% to 80% in a brisk 26 minutes. This stands on par with the Kia Soul EV and Hyundai Kona Electric, which offer similar rapid charging features. The Peugeot e-2008 also boasts parallel fast charging proficiency, suggesting a fairly level playing field in this domain.
Price Comparison
The Citroen e-C3 Aircross, priced at around £25,000 ($29,180 or €27,000), triumphantly emerges as one of the most affordable electric SUVs in its league. The Kia Soul EV starts at around £32,000 ($37,500 or €35,000), whereas the Hyundai Kona Electric begins at roughly £30,000 ($35,200 or €33,000). Meanwhile, the Peugeot e-2008 rounds up at about £28,500 ($33,500 or €32,000). Citroen's offering stands out for families seeking an economical, no-nonsense electric vehicle.
