Citroen could delay the launch of the C3X, which is a sedan with a twist. Earlier scheduled to debut in mid-2024, we’ve learnt that after receiving feedback from stakeholders, Citroen has gone back to the drawing board to equip this car more generously, which could delay its launch.
The upcoming C3X is a fresh take on the sedan body style, with a coupe-like roofline, a notchback (like the Skoda Superb), and a crossover-like treatment that includes a raised ride height, tough body cladding, etc. The company is going to call it an ‘SUV-coupe’ to give it a unique position in its segment.
The Citroen C3X will be based on the C-Cubed platform, which underpins the C3, eC3 and C3 Aircross, and will also share several components, powertrains and equipment, among other things, to keep a check on costs. Due to the blatant cost-cutting and feature omissions on the recently launched C3 Aircross, sales of the SUV didn’t take off despite aggressive pricing, and within a month of its debut, the company was offering huge discounts to push sales.
Its poor start as well as feedback from customers, media and other stakeholders has certainly made the company’s top officials sit up and take notice. To meet the ever-growing demands of customers, we’re told that the C3X will get more equipment than the company had originally planned to correct some of the shortcomings of the C3 Aircross, which could delay the C3X from hitting showrooms.
Even though we aren’t certain what the C3X’s ‘updated’ equipment includes, we hope it packs in all or most of the C3 Aircross’ missing features like electric folding mirrors, automatic climate control, cruise control, wireless charging, LED headlamps, push-button start, keyless entry, ventilated front seats and a sunroof; these are available on competitor offerings.
The C3X will be powered by Citroen’s familiar 110hp, 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with a 6-speed manual transmission that does duty on the C3 and C3 Aircross. Citroen could also offer the 6-speed automatic transmission option right from launch; the torque convertor unit will make its debut in the C3 and C3 Aircross in the first quarter of 2024. An electric iteration of the C3X could hit the market in 2025.
Citroen C3X rivals
The Citroen C3X will rival midsize sedans like the Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia and Honda City. However, on account of its coupe-like design and high-riding character, it could carve out its own niche. Interestingly, Tata will also launch the Curvv crossover with coupe-like styling by mid 2024, which will be a direct rival to the C3X. Going by Tata’s current portfolio, expect the Curvv to be generously equipped too. Will Citroen infuse the C3X with a healthy dose of premium features to match the Tata? We’ll find out soon.
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Citroen C3X to bring notchback body style to the masses