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.  

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Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, has reported its best-ever annual performance in FY2026 with wholesales of 641,587 units, up 15 percent YoY. This includes 631,387 units in the domestic market, up 14 percent, while exports came at 10,200 units, up 281 percent YoY.

For March 2026, the company’s sales came at 66,192 units, up 28 percent, while exports came at 779 units, up 204 percent YoY.

Interestingly, electric vehicles recorded its highest-ever quarterly sales of approximately 27,000 units, a 69 percent increase YoY. Annual EV volumes reached 92,120 units. On the other hand, sales of CNG vehicles crossed 170,000 units, up 24 percent YoY.

The Nexon and Punch models were the top-selling SUV models in the second half of the financial year. Recent launches, including the Sierra, a refreshed Punch and petrol variants of the Harrier and Safari, also saw continued customer traction.

The company expects the passenger vehicle industry to reach record annual volumes of approximately 4.7 million units, reflecting an 8 percent growth. Tata Motors emerged as the second-ranked player in the industry based on Vahan registrations during the second half of FY2026.

Shailesh Chandra, MD and CEO, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said, “PV industry sales are expected to reach record volumes of around 4.7 million units for the year, reflecting 8 percent year on year (YoY) growth. The industry witnessed a strong rebound in the second half, posting double digit growth, supported by GST 2.0 implementation and a robust festive season. For Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, FY26 has been a landmark year marked by multiple milestones. We achieved our highest ever annual sales volumes of over 640,000 units, delivering industry beating growth of 15 percent YoY and ended it with strong positive momentum. Looking ahead, industry momentum is expected to sustain, led by growth in SUVs, CNG and EV. At the same time, the industry will need to closely monitor geopolitical developments to mitigate potential supply-side risks.”

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Honda Cars India (HCIL), a leading manufacturer of passenger vehicles, has recorded domestic sales of 7,585 units in March 2026, up 5 percent YoY, as compared to the 7,228 units sold last year. The company also reported exports of 2,451 units for the month.

The sales growth was supported by demand for the Amaze and Elevate models. Honda Cars India intends to expand its vehicle lineup in the upcoming financial year, with the launch of its first battery electric vehicle (BEV) scheduled for the second half of the year.

Kunal Behl, Vice-President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India, said, “Demand for all Honda models specially Amaze and Elevate continues to be strong with exciting promotions and product offerings which helped us achieve 5 percent growth during Mar 2026. We are excited to enter the new fiscal with plans to expand our lineup, including the launch of our first BEV in the second half. We remain highly optimistic that our strong focus on customer satisfaction will continue to drive growth and sustain positive momentum.”

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Nissan Motor India (NMIPL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has recorded its best-ever monthly sale in March 2026, its highest in the last five years.

The company sold a total of 10,388 units in March 2026, which includes 4,408 units in the domestic market, while exports came at 5,980 units. This marks a 98 percent growth in domestic wholesales compared to February 2026.

The company attributed the smart uptick on the back of beginning of customer deliveries for the Nissan Gravite MPV, while the Nissan Magnite maintained its sales momentum. The expansion of its network presence also supported increasing customer traction.

The start of Gravite deliveries is identified as a milestone in the company’s growth phase in India. Nissan intends to sustain this trajectory by strengthening sales and service experiences and further expanding its network footprint across the country.

Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said, “March has been a defining month for Nissan in India, the strong growth in domestic sales reflects the positive customer response to our product portfolio. With the commencement of customer deliveries of the all-new Nissan GRAVITE, we would like to thank our customers for their love and appreciation for the Nissan Brand. The over-whelming response to the product reinforces our confidence in the opportunities ahead. Together with the continued momentum of the Nissan Magnite, the dedication of our Network Partners and support of Nissan Finance & other Banking partners, we remain focused on strengthening our Sales & Service experience, while further expanding our network footprint for sustaining long-term growth in the Indian market.”

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  - Bidyut Ghosh April 02, 2026 11:35 AM

  This is excellent move from Nissan India

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Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) reports 20 percent uptick in its wholesales for FY2026 with 406,081 units sold, as compared to 337,148 units last year.

The company recorded growth across both domestic and export markets during the financial year. Domestic sales rose by 19 percent to 367,107 units, while exports grew by 41 percent to 38,974 units.

In March 2026, Toyota Kirloskar Motor reported a 24 percent increase in total sales, with 37,194 units sold compared to 30,043 units a year ago.

The company attributes a robust demand for its product portfolio, which was supported by the introduction of the Land Cruiser 300, as well as new grades and special editions for the Innova Hycross, Fortuner, Camry Hybrid and Hilux. Technical updates included a new six-speed automatic transmission for the Urban Cruiser Hyryder AWD variant.

The company also standardised six airbags across the Rumion, Glanza, Urban Cruiser Taisor, and Urban Cruiser Hyryder models. The Innova Hycross achieved a five-star Bharat NCAP rating during this period.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor expanded its market reach through customer-centric initiatives and brand engagement activities, including the Toyota Experiential Museum (TEM) and a tour by brand ambassadors Drum Tao. These efforts were intended to increase reach among younger audiences and reinforce the brand's mobility positioning.

Sabari Manohar, Executive Vice-President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We delivered a positive performance this financial year, driven by sustained demand across our SUV, MPV and compact segments. The introduction of new products and customer centric initiatives during the year further helped position Toyota as a dynamic, technology driven and youth‑oriented brand. This momentum reflects the continued trust in Toyota’s quality, reliability and overall ownership experience. In a rapidly evolving market, such consistency underscores the strength of our fundamentals and positions us well for long‑term sustainable growth. We sincerely thank our customers, dealer partner, Government and other stakeholders for their trust & unwavering support. We remain focused on strengthening our product and technology offerings in line with our multi‑pathway approach of hybrid & electrified vehicle technologies in the mobility space. Looking ahead, we remain committed to creating long‑term value while continuously improving every touchpoint across the customer ownership journey.”

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