Citroen accelerates growth in India: locally engineered and built

Citroën today is revealing the All-New C3 Aircross, a family Midsize-SUV that is tough outside and caring inside, and intelligently created to meet the specific needs of Indian customers.                               The All-New C3 Aircross is, above all, unmistakably a Citroën, and at the same time a pure Midsize-SUV, which will compete at the heart of the market by offering car buyers compelling value in a tailor-made package. The SUV combines a unique, muscular, and bold design, with signature Citroën comfort and well-being, plus versatility in the segment for up to 7 people. Unmistakably Citroën, All-New C3 Aircross is a tough and distinctive SUV available in both 5-seater and 5+2-seater versions and targeted for launch in India in second half of 2023.

All-New C3 Aircross is the second in a family of three new models specifically aimed at international growing markets under Citroën’s C-Cubed programme, announced in 2019, and being marketed between 2022 and 2024. The Midsize-SUV is developed and produced locally – at the Thiruvallur plant in Tamil Nadu with over 90% localisation. This ensures customers satisfaction that allows faster parts availability and overall lower cost of ownership.

This new 4.3m SUV model and the already launched brand’s flagship C5 Aircross SUV, sub 4m New C3 & ë-C3   represents key steps in Citroën’s international growth strategy, under which the brand is targeting 30 percent of its global vehicle sales to be in regions and markets outside of Europe by 2025.

“Citroën plans to grow globally by entering high-potential markets with affordable, locally-tailored products. Our goal is to achieve 30% of sales in international markets outside Europe by 2025. Our aim is to compete successfully with local players while providing an easy ownership journey for our customers. The All-New C3 Aircross a 4.3m midsize SUV, marks a significant step for Citroën to reach a new group of customers looking for an appealing, value-for-money, and spacious family Midsize-SUV that offers versatility of seating up to 7 people.” says Thierry Koskas, Citroën CEO.

RIGHT TIME, RIGHT PRODUCT

Citroën has worked hard to ensure the 4.3m long, 5 and 5+2-seater All-New C3 Aircross is the right vehicle at the right time to enter the fast-growing and highly competitive Midsize SUV segment in the Indian market.

“The All-New C3 Aircross is a highly-localized midsize SUV that caters to the needs of the Indian market, where SUVs hold a 40% market share. This vehicle has been designed with insights from Indian customers and developed at Citroën's R&D and engineering centers in India and Europe. The vehicle assembly and powertrain plants in Thiruvallur and Hosur respectively will be instrumental in efficiently manufacturing the vehicle in India. Citroën is confident in meeting the requirements of this new group of Indian customers.” adds Roland Bouchara, CEO and Managing Director of Stellantis India.

“In India, car purchasing decisions involve the entire family and often consultations with friends. Budget and overall cost of ownership are crucial considerations, but so are distinctive design, a commanding street presence, high levels of all-round comfort, space and flexibility, connectivity, and features. The attributes of a vehicle reflect the owner's lifestyle and status, making styling and features equally important factors in the buying decision. The versatility of the C3 Aircross will help solve the varied mobility needs of Indian families, who enjoy life on the move.  We have made every effort to make the All-New C3 Aircross desirable and accessible to these families. Our fast expanding La Maison Citroen phygital showroom & L’Atelier service network will ensure our Citroen India family has an impeccable ownership journey.” says Saurabh Vatsa, Citroën Head, India.