The Citroen C3 Aircross has achieved a significant milestone by securing a 5-star rating under the Bharat NCAP program. With a score of 27.05/32 in Adult Occupant Protection and 40/49 in Child Occupant Protection, the SUV becomes Citroen’s first car to get a full 5-star rating from the Bharat NCAP. The 5-star rating for adults and 4-star rating for child occupants also makes it the safest car (based on BNCAP ratings) Citroen sells in India. Previously Citroen had achieved 4-star safety rating with the Basalt Coupe SUV.
Citroen C3 Aircross – Adult Occupant Protection
In the Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) category, the Citroen C3 Aircross performed exceptionally well, scoring 27.05 points out of a possible 32. The vehicle showed excellent protection for the driver and front passenger in the frontal offset and side impact tests. The use of high-strength steel, Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), and Ultra High Strength Steel (UHSS) in the structure played a vital role in reducing cabin intrusion during crashes.
Citroen C3 Aircross – Child Occupant Protection
The Citroen C3 Aircross scored 40 points out of 49 in the Child Occupant Protection (COP) tests, translating into a solid 4-star rating. The SUV is equipped with ISOFIX child seat anchors and supports a range of internationally certified child restraint systems. During testing, the Citroen C3 Aircross demonstrated strong dynamic performance, offering both frontal and side crash protection for child dummies.
Citroen C3 Aircross – Structural Integrity
The crash tests revealed that the Citroen C3 Aircross maintains structural integrity under both frontal and side impacts. Reinforced crumple zones effectively managed crash energy, while the cabin remained stable. The use of UHSS ensures reduced deformation, thereby enhancing occupant survival space. This structural strength was a decisive factor in achieving the 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for the Citroen C3 Aircross.
Citroen C3 Aircross – Safety Features
Beyond crash performance, the Citroen C3 Aircross benefits from over 40 active and passive safety features. Standard features include ESC, Hill Hold Assist, Seat Belt Reminders for all seats, and Pedestrian Protection features compliant with AIS-100 regulations. The inclusion of six airbags, ABS with EBD, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) further adds to the safety credentials of the SUV.
Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, added, “With the Citroen 2.0 strategy, we’re not just building cars — we’re shaping aspirations with safety at the core. The Citroen Aircross SUV, now proudly rated 5 stars in adult occupant protection by Bharat NCAP, is a bold testament to our commitment towards smart, secure mobility. Its acclaimed ride quality and comfort reflect our philosophy: advanced comfort, cutting-edge safety, and intuitive technology — all in one dynamic, practical package.”
Citroen C3 Aircross – Powertrain
The Citroen C3 Aircross is available with two engine options, the 1.2 litre turbo-petrol which puts out 110 Hp and 205Nm of torque and a 1.2 naturally aspirated engine delivering up to 80 Bhp and 115Nm of torque. Customers can choose between 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, and 6-speed automatic transmissions.
Citroen C3 Aircross – Market Positioning and Rivals
The Citroen C3 Aircross competes with rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, MG Astor, Maruti Grand Vitara and Victoris, Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq. Its unique selling points remains its clever 5+2 seating as well the significantly lower price tag than its competitors. However, rivals like the Creta, Victoris and Seltos counter with stronger engine options, hybrids, and richer feature lists. The C3 Aircross is priced between ₹8.32 lakh and ₹14.10 (ex-showroom).
Most recently, Citroen refreshed the Basalt and the C3 with the new “X” variants, adding more features and upgraded interiors. Given this progression, Citroen has teased a version of the C3 Aircross that receives the “X” treatment, likely bringing a richer equipment list and enhanced cabin appeal.