While Spaniards anxiously discuss the influx of Chinese cars, a factory in Zaragoza is already assembling a crossover that could challenge the entire buzz around ‘cheap’ foreign models. The second-generation Citroën C3 Aircross is not just another SUV; it’s a real contender for those seeking practicality, savings, and modern technology without paying extra for something exotic. For €18,000, buyers get not only a spacious cabin and up to 1,600 liters of trunk space but also a choice between petrol, hybrid, or fully electric motors. All this comes with an official warranty of up to 8 years if serviced at a dealer. So, why look abroad when such an option is right next door?
In 2026, Citroën decided not just to refresh the C3 Aircross but to make it noticeably larger and roomier. The body now measures 4.4 meters in length, nearly 1.8 meters in width, and 1.66 meters in height. Thanks to an extended wheelbase (2.67 m), the interior has become even more spacious, and even in the compact class, you can choose a 5- or 7-seat version. In the five-seat configuration, the boot holds 460 liters, expanding to 1,600 liters with the rear seats folded down. The seven-seat version, however, is only available with a petrol engine and offers slightly less volume, but still leaves most competitors behind. In fact, this crossover has almost no direct rivals, except perhaps the Opel Frontera, which is built on the same platform.
Engines and technology
The C3 Aircross engine lineup seems like a direct challenge to skeptics. The base version features a three-cylinder 1.2 Turbo petrol engine with 100 hp, paired with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. For those seeking more power and less worry about fuel consumption, there’s a mild hybrid (MHEV) with 145 hp, an automatic transmission, and seven gears. This version receives the ECO environmental badge, which is especially relevant for city dwellers tired of restrictions and fines.
But the real intrigue lies with the electric options. The base EV produces 113 hp and comes with a 44 kWh battery, allowing for up to 302 km on a single charge. For those who don’t like compromises, Citroën has recently added a version with a 54 kWh battery and a range of up to 400 km. This approach clearly targets people fed up with talks of “insufficient autonomy” who want to drive without constantly hunting for an outlet. However, if you compare this to how the hybrid Ebro S400 ignited a real price war and became a best-seller, as detailed in the analysis of the Spanish hybrid phenomenon, it becomes clear: competition in the segment is only getting fiercer.
Trims and Prices
Citroën didn’t try to reinvent the wheel with its trim levels. The basic You version already includes LED daytime running lights, tinted windows, electric mirrors and windows, rear parking sensors, an electromechanical handbrake, air conditioning, and Advanced Control suspension. The wheels are 16 inches—more than enough for city and highway driving. The next level, Plus, adds full LED headlights, a rearview camera, heated mirrors, climate control, and 17-inch rims. The top Max trim features front parking sensors, a rain sensor, an auto-dimming mirror, and hydraulic shock absorbers.
These are the 2026 prices: the petrol C3 Aircross You is €18,040, the long-range electric version is €25,990. The Hybrid Plus comes in at €23,140, while the top Max Hybrid costs €25,340. Fully loaded electric versions reach up to €30,390. All prices already include discounts and promotions, and a warranty of up to 8 years is a welcome bonus for those who prefer zero surprises at the service center.
Practicality and value
The main advantage of the C3 Aircross is its combination of price, features, and real-world practicality. At a time when even used cars are priced like a spaceship, a brand new hybrid or electric crossover at this price almost feels like a challenge to the market. Especially considering assembly takes place in Spain, not somewhere in the Far East, and quality is ensured by the European Stellantis group. For families prioritizing space and savings, and for those who don’t want to depend on the whims of imports, this offer is more than attractive.
While some keep debating who will come out on top—Chinese or European brands—Citroën is quietly and confidently carving out its own niche. The irony is that many still fail to notice: sometimes the best solution is just around the corner, not on the other side of the world. In any case, the market will sort things out—and judging by sales trends, the C3 Aircross has every chance to become a new people’s favorite.
Citroën is a French brand with over a century of history, long associated with innovation and daring engineering solutions. In recent years, the company has been investing heavily in electric and hybrid technologies, focusing on affordability and practicality. The factory in Zaragoza has become one of the key production centers for Stellantis, producing models tailored for the European market. Thanks to this, Citroën manages not only to keep prices competitive, but also to offer vehicles adapted to the real needs of Spanish families.
