The compact SUV market in India is bursting with options, and the latest entry – the Citroen C3 Aircross – comes with an affordable tag that’s sure to turn heads. While the Maruti Grand Vitara has already established its presence, this French rival seeks to take the spotlight. Let’s dive into a comparative analysis of these two contenders.
Pricing and Seating Capacity
Citroen surely knows how to make an entrance! At an introductory price of Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the C3 Aircross is touted as the most economical compact SUV. An added advantage is its unique 5- or 7-seat configuration, albeit the base You variant comes strictly as a 5-seater.
In contrast, the Maruti Grand Vitara was previously the pocket-friendly champion, tagged at Rs 10.70 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). With Citroen undercutting Maruti by Rs 71,000, the ballgame just got intriguing.
Dimensions: Size Does Matter
A glance at the measurements and the C3 Aircross slightly towers over the Grand Vitara. Though shorter by 22mm, it is broader, taller, and boasts a more extended wheelbase. These enhanced dimensions underline Citroen’s capability of offering a 3-row seating arrangement in a dominantly 5-seater SUV market segment.
Performance Under the Hood
Here’s where things get interesting:
Engine: Citroen packs a punch with a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine against Maruti’s 1.5-litre petrol. The solo engine-gearbox combo for the C3 Aircross contrasts with the Grand Vitara’s mild- and strong-hybrid options.
Power and Torque: The French SUV churns out 110PS and 190Nm, outclassing the Grand Vitara’s 103PS and 137Nm.
Transmission: Citroen’s 6-speed MT overshadows Maruti’s 5-speed MT.
Fuel Efficiency: The Grand Vitara excels with a 21.11kmpl, thanks to its intelligent starter motor, while Citroen trails behind at 18.5kmpl.
For those keen on more, Maruti also throws in an AWD option on its top-end variant and a 116PS 1.5-litre strong-hybrid setup boasting a whopping 27.97kmpl.
Features: The Little Things that Count
Exterior
Both SUVs are almost at par. However, the Grand Vitara Sigma’s LED DRLs and taillights give it an edge. Citroen opts for a simpler design with body-coloured bumpers and outside door handles.
Interior
Maruti takes the upper hand with a more premium interior. Chrome accents, adjustable headrests, and added armrests make the Grand Vitara‘s cabin a tad more refined than Citroen’s basic black and grey theme.
Comfort and Convenience
Again, Maruti pulls ahead. The Grand Vitara Sigma offers features such as auto AC, electrically folding ORVMs, and a height-adjustable driver seat. In contrast, Citroen’s 7-inch digital driver’s display stands out as its USP.
Infotainment
Neither SUV offers any infotainment system in their base variant.
Safety
Common safety features shared by both are dual front airbags, ESP, and hill-hold assist. Citroen garners extra points with its TPMS, whereas Maruti emphasizes child safety with its 3-point seatbelts and ISOFIX anchorages.
Our Take
Citroen’s C3 Aircross enters the arena promising a spacious yet budget-friendly SUV with a zestful engine. The affordable Rs 9.99 lakh price point is tempting, especially when you factor in the possibility of third-row seating.
However, Maruti’s Grand Vitara, though slightly pricier, promises a comprehensive package. Added comforts, varied powertrain options, superior mileage, and an exhaustive features list make it worth the extra bucks.
In conclusion, while the Citroen C3 Aircross offers excellent value for first-time compact SUV buyers, the Maruti Grand Vitara Sigma stands out as a more refined, comprehensive choice for those willing to stretch their budget.
