The launch of the fourth generation Citroën C3 has been delayed. Citroën will completely transform its popular utility with the aim of adapting it to the new times. We reveal the secrets of the new Citroën C3 2024 and the SUV transformation that this model will undergo to compete with Dacia.
The Citroen C3 It has established itself, throughout its three generations, as a benchmark in the competitive B-segment. It is one of the central pillars on which Citroën supports a large part of its range. The generation that we can currently find in dealerships saw the light back in 2016. A long time has passed since then. And despite the set-up that it suffered in the convulsive 2020, it is time for it to undergo a comprehensive renovation.
citroen has launched all its machinery with the support of Stellantis to carry out an ambitious transformation process. The C3, as we know it, is destined to disappear. Unfortunately, the company is not having it so easy to materialize this project. Nonetheless, actively working in the replacement of the model that is still available.
A new Citroën C3 designed by and for Europe
The original plan of Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, was to globally market the new Citroën C3 developed for India and South America. A model designed for emerging markets and in whose development the consulting branch of the Tata Group played an active role. What’s more, it was even advocated at the time for the new C3 made in India to be shipped directly to European dealers. That is, stop manufacturing the C3 in Europe.
We must remember that the serial production process of the C3 sold at European dealerships takes place in France. The entry on the scene of Vincent Cobée, who became director of Citroën in January 2020, has been key to preventing this plan from materializing. Cobée was able to convince Tavares that Europe did not have the same requirements.
The internal code of the fourth generation C3 is CC21, the same used by the model for emerging markets. It is also part of the strategic plan «Smart Car». Even so, the new C3 that will arrive in European showrooms will present important differences with which to adapt to the trends that are being experienced in this part of the world and, above all, to the demands of the European public.
The transformation of the Citroën C3 into an SUV
One of the most obvious changes that the new generation of the C3 will bring with it is a new body format. It will stop being a utility to use for become an SUV. A point in common with the Indian and Brazilian versions. Laurentis Barria, Director of Marketing and Communication at Citroën, has confirmed that there will be some influence: “We were inspired by this new C3 that we presented in Brazil to create the new European C3.”
The recreations that illustrate this article allow us to anticipate what the new European C3 will be like. Aesthetically it will look the characteristic features of an SUV. There will be certain points of union with the Citroën C3 Aircross. The length will be kept below 4 meters. Something important to make a difference with the aforementioned C3 Aircross. The front and rear will be modified from the C3 for emerging markets.
Citroën does not expect the new C3 to be able to achieve the highest safety score in the Euro NCAP tests. Largely due to the absence of certain driving assistance systems. Despite this, it will be built with higher quality materials. Supported by the CMP platformthe new C3 will be much cheaper than the Peugeot 208 and the Opel Corsa, which will allow it to rival, among others, the Dacia Sandero.
Citroën ë-C3, the 100% electric variant
Regarding the mechanical section there will also be great news. The price will determine the options available. There will be no diesel engines. You can configure a non-electrified 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine. The use of 48-volt light hybrid technology (MHEV) has been ruled out as this would increase the sale price. To contain average emissions, a major role will be given to 100% electric variant. The new Citroën ë-C3.
The new ë-C3 will use electric motors of Chinese origin with moderate power and a reduced cost compared to the blocks that will be used, for example, by the new DS 3 E-Tense and Jeep Avenger. The power of the ë-C3 will be approximately 60 kW (82 hp). There will be a higher version that will reach about 80 kW (109 hp).
The batteries will be supplied by the Chinese specialist Svolt. are anticipated two battery options, one of 40 kWh and another superior with 50 kWh. The autonomy will exceed 300 kilometers according to the WLTP cycle.
The arrival of the new Citroën C3 is delayed
All the changes described throughout this article have forced Citroën to delay the launch of the new C3 in Europe. The launch and production of the fourth generation of the C3 was originally scheduled to take place in the spring of 2023. Finally, it will have to wait until 2024.