New Citroen C3 And C3 Aircross Reflects Learnings From The Indian Marketplace

New Citroen C3 And C3 Aircross Reflects Learnings From The Indian Marketplace

New Citroen C3 Reflects Learnings From The Indian Marketplace

A far cry from the first Citroen C3 which fell short of features like auto air-con, adjustable headrests, rear wiper, wireless charging, sunroof, LED head lamps and tail lamps and rear camera, the new (2024) C3 reflects the learning from the Indian marketplace. 

The car features high performance six-speed automatic transmission and a host of others in terms of safety and convenience. With prices starting from INR616,000 ex showroom, the new C3 – powered by a 110 PS 1.2-litre Gen 3 PureTech turbo petrol engine that produces 205 Nm of peak torque – comes with six airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, three-point seat belts, power window with switches on the doors, grab handle on the front passenger side, auto-folding ORVMs and LED projector headlamps. 

While the buyer can still opt for a five-speed manual transmission that was offered on the earlier model, the new C3 also comes with 40 connectivity features for a tech-savvy driving experience as part of the MyCitroen connectivity suite. These consist of Remote Start Stop with pre-conditioning, Geo fencing, Remote Lock/Unlock and Marketplace Fueling. The 26 cm infotainment system in the car is replete with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. 

Shishir Mishra, Brand Director, Citroën India, mentioned as the launch, “We are thrilled to launch the New C3, now equipped with enhanced features and the highly anticipated addition of Automatic transmission option. These upgrades mark a bold step forward in our commitment to delivering the best-in-class driving experience. We've meticulously refined every aspect of the vehicle—from safety and technology to comfort and convenience. We are confident that this new version will appeal to an even wider audience, reinforcing our dedication to innovation and exceptional driving experiences that evolve with our customers' needs.”

He drew attention to the model’s class-leading wheelbase of 2,540 mm and the renowned Advanced Comfort suspension system, which is claimed to deliver a ‘Flying Carpet’ ride. Providing extensive customisation options that includes ‘six packs’ and over 70 accessories along with intelligent storage solutions, the new C3 is available at La Maison Citroën showrooms nationwide. 

The introduction of 2024 C3 follows close on the heels of the launch of 2024 C3 Aircross with a starting price of INR 1,284,800 ex showroom. Sharing the platform architecture with the C3, which also includes the 110 PS 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine and the six-speed automatic transmission, the C3 Aircoss new model also comes with ‘Citroen Connect’ that has 40 smart features including remote engine start, remote air-con pre-conditioning, progressive in-app marketplace for seamless fuel transactions via Citroën Connect. 

Offering a five or five plus two searing, the C3 Aircross is claimed to offer best-in-class second row knee room. 

With the rear seats up, the luggage volume on offer is 511-litres. 

Perhaps a bit quirky in design/styling like many French automobiles are known to look, the C3 Aircross is available with a five-speed manual transmission. 

"Citroën is committed to meeting the evolving demands of Indian consumers by integrating innovation, performance, value, and unparalleled convenience into our vehicles. The launch of the new C3 Aircross Automatic is a pivotal moment in our India venture, being the first Automatic Transmission on our C-Cubed platform. It brings advanced features, impressive performance, and competitive pricing. We are confident that the C3 Aircross Automatic will appeal to the consumers who are looking for exceptional driving experience along with versatility and comfort," said Aditya Jairaj, MD and CEO, Stellantis India.  

Skoda Teases New Vision O Concept Interior

Skoda Vision O

Skoda has released a teaser video offering the first look inside its upcoming Vision O concept car, revealing a new interior design language. The car will be officially unveiled on 8th September in Munich.

The interior showcases the next evolution of the brand’s Modern Solid design philosophy, focusing on a customer-centric and sustainable approach. The design emphasises a spacious layout with clean lines for a harmonious feel.

Oliver Stefani, Head of Skoda Design, said, “The interior design concept of the Vision O showcases our commitment to combining simplicity and sustainability with enhanced comfort. The combination of clean lines and intuitive functionality reflect our efforts to create a harmonious and functional interior. It features materials and design elements that are not only aesthetically an evolution of our Modern Solid design language but also emphasise environmental responsibility.”

The interior features a minimalist, ergonomic design that prioritises practicality and intuitive functionality. It includes unique 3D-printed headrests for a comfortable and airy feel. Following circular economy principles, the materials used throughout the cabin are sustainable, with a focus on plant-based and compostable components to reduce the car’s environmental impact.

The Vision O will be a look at the future of Skoda’s estate segment.

Renault Launches New Kiger SUV At INR 629,000

Renault Kiger

Renault India has released the new Kiger, an updated version of its sub-four-meter SUV at prices starting INR 629,000 with prices going upto INR 1.12 million (ex-showroom).

The SUV is an evolution of the previous model, features over 35 updates. It was developed to align with the ‘rethink performance’ philosophy.

The new Kiger has a refreshed exterior and an updated interior. It now includes a multi-view camera system, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlamps. The Kiger is also equipped with a 20.32 cm touchscreen and a sound system.

The Kiger is available with two engine options: a 100 PS turbocharged engine and a 72 PS naturally aspirated engine. For safety, the new Kiger offers 21 standard safety features across all versions, including six airbags, ESP and Hill Start Assist.

Venkatram Mamillapalle, MD and CEO, Renault India, said, “We are excited to launch the New Kiger in a segment which is growing fastest and contributes 50% to the SUV sales and 31% to the TIV of the country. Kiger has been a unique product in its segment, and with this latest evolution, we are reaffirming our commitment to making expressive design, intelligent engineering, and real-world performance accessible to Indian customers. This marks a pivotal moment in Renault’s India centric transformation journey renault. rethink.”

Francisco Hidalgo, Vice-President, Sales and Marketing, Renault India, said, “Renault Kiger has shaped expectations in the compact SUV segment with its aesthetic design, modern details, and bold stance combined with the lightweight CMFA+ platform. The New Kiger remains highly agile and responsive, giving customers the confidence of SUV DNA with the ease of everyday driving on city roads and highways- ticking all that is required for perfect performance.” 

Hyundai Exter Gets New Pro Pack, New Colour Options & Features

Hyundai Exter

Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has introduced ‘PRO’ Pack in its popular compact SUV the Hyundai Exter at starting price of INR 798,390 (ex-showroom).

The new Pro pack features wheel arch cladding, side sill garnish, all-new Titan Grey Matte colour and a Dashcam to make the SUV more safer.

Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, "At HMIL, we are continuously evolving our product offerings to resonate with the aspirations of today's young and progressive customers. The introduction of PRO Pack in Hyundai EXTER is a step further in this direction, combining bold styling, advanced technology and strong safety to create a truly distinctive value proposition. With its refreshed appeal, the PRO Pack in Hyundai EXTER strengthens our commitment to redefining customer delight and making every drive a PRO experience."

MOL, Suzuki Motor Corporation And TradeWaltz Join Forces To Decarbonise Automobile Trade Between India & Africa

MOL, Suzuki Motor Corporation, TradeWaltz

MOL, Suzuki Motor Corporation and TradeWaltz have announced a new partnership to streamline and decarbonise the automobile trade between India and Africa. The three companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama.

This collaboration aims to address current challenges in the trade by leveraging digital solutions and enhancing efficiency. The companies will focus on identifying problems in the supply chain and developing solutions for smoother transportation. A key part of the initiative is also promoting decarbonisation efforts within the logistics process.

The partnership aligns with the ‘Japan-India Cooperation Initiative for Sustainable Economic Development in Africa,’ launched in February 2025. By combining their individual strengths, MOL, Suzuki and TradeWaltz hope to contribute to the economic development of both India and Africa. The companies stated that this MU is the first step toward building a more robust and interconnected automobile supply chain between these two rapidly growing markets.