Citroën C3 Aircross II (2024 – Présent)

Reliability score : 8.4/10

Citroën C3 Aircross II (2024+) The second generation of the Citroën C3 Aircross marks a complete break with its predecessor. Based on Stellantis' « Smart Car » platform (derived from CMP), it has grown considerably (4.39 m) to position itself at the boundary between urban and compact SUVs. Its major asset is offering up to 7 seats, a rarity in this segment, placing it in direct competition with the Dacia Jogger. Mechanically, this generation marks the definitive abandonment of the much-criticized 1.2 PureTech with a wet belt in favor of the new generation of EB2 (Gen 3) engines with a timing chain, coupled or not with a 48V mild hybrid system. A 100% electric version (ë-C3 Aircross) with an LFP battery also makes its appearance. Designed to be accessible, it features a basic interior finis

✅ Strengths

Exceptional spaciousness for its size (4.39 m) with 7-seater option.
Definitive abandonment of the wet belt: return to reliability for petrol engines (chain).
Ride comfort (standard Citroën Advanced Comfort suspensions).
Very aggressive pricing (positioning close to Dacia).
LFP battery on the electric version: a guarantee of longevity and robustness.

⚠️ Weaknesses

Very basic interior finish (hard plastics omnipresent).
Limited range for the electric version (approximately 300 km WLTP).
Modest performance when loaded (especially in 7-seater configuration with the 100 hp).
Multimedia system ergonomics sometimes slow.
Total disappearance of diesel engines (inconvenient for very high mileage drivers).

🎯 Verdict

Purchase Verdict The Citroën C3 Aircross II is excellent news for fans of the chevron brand. By adopting a pragmatic and family-oriented positioning (up to 7 seats), it encroaches on Dacia's territory with strong comfort arguments. But the real victory lies under the hood: the introduction of 1.2 engines with a timing chain erases the heavy reliability legacy of the previous generation. This is a vehicle that can now be purchased with mechanical peace of mind. The 1.2 Turbo 100 hp manual transmission version represents the most rational and reliable long-term choice. The 136 hp hybrid version is appealing, but its e-DCS6 gearbox still needs to prove itself over time. The electric version is perfect for daily use, provided its limited range is accepted.