Citroën C3X 2025 – The French Hatchback That Grew Up for India
The new Citroën C3X 2025 is here – SUV-inspired premium hatchback with 15+ new features, two petrol engines, six airbags, new interiors, and prices from 5.25 lakh in India. Detailed review including history, performance, safety, and verdict.
A Century in the Making – From Parisian Boulevards to Indian Highways
It was 1919. The First World War was over, jazz was setting its rhythm in smoke-filled Parisian clubs, and André Citroën was set to shake up the French automobile industry. Citroën’s first ever car, the Type A, was not merely about transport — it was about style, comfort, and a certain joie de vivre that gave it an edge over its rivals. Decades later, Citroën earned a reputation for being willing to be different — from the sleek, futuristic DS to the tough 2CV, the brand danced to its own tune.
When Citroën finally landed in India in 2021, it brought with it that same panache. The C5 Aircross SUV demonstrated what the brand was capable of in high-end comfort.. But India, as any manufacturer learns sooner rather than later, is not a market for half-measures. Customers in India want value, features, and durability along with style.
The early C3s did have their appeal, but they also had their detractors. The interior was a little too stripped out, the features list too slim, and the engine range left some feeling shortchanged. Citroën listened. Very carefully.
In August 2025, those notes became a reality. The Citroën C3X was launched as the brand’s boldest attempt yet to capture the Indian buyer’s heart — an SUV-inspired hatchback that blends French design confidence with Indian sensibility.
Interior – Where the French Finally Speak
Step inside the C3X and you’ll feel something Citroën’s earlier budget models lacked: an actual sense of occasion.
The Shine Turbo dashboard is upholstered in leatherette soft-touch material, with a subtle contrasting stitch. Those hard, scratchy plastics for your elbows are gone. The air vents receive piano black surrounds, and the switchgear is tight and well-engineered.
The seating is the surprise. Citroën has had a reputation for comfort, but in this one, the seats aren’t merely soft — they’re cushioned. Be it the morning crawl through Bengaluru traffic or the 400 km Pune–Goa weekend romp, the cushioning keeps the fatigue at bay.
Feature Highlights That Hit the Right Notes:
Infotainment: A crisp, lag-free 10.25-inch Citroën Connect touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay& Android Auto.
Climate Control: Fully auto and “tropicalised” for ice-cold cabin temperatures even on a summer Rajasthan day.
Tech and Convenience: Wireless phone charging, push-button start, passive entry, HALO 360° camera with seven views, rear USB-C fast charging.
Driver Info: Customisable layouts on digital instrument cluster.
Lighting: LED cabin lamps and auto-dimming IRVM for night convenience.
Performance – Two Personalities, One French Accent
The C3X comes with two petrol engine options:
1.2L Naturally Aspirated Petrol – 82 PS & 115 Nm, 5-speed manual.
Ideal for people who prefer fuel efficiency and linear power delivery over excitement.
City mileage is in the ballpark of 17–19 km/l with driving carefully.
1.2L Turbocharged Petrol – 110 PS & 190 Nm (205 Nm with the 6-speed automatic).
Is punchy, particularly from 2,000 rpm and above.
0–100 km/h in less than 10 seconds (manual).
Automatic transmission is smooth and well-tuned for crawling traffic and rapid overtakes.
Citroën ride quality continues to be its pride. Suspension, lowered for Indian roads, absorbs bumps and potholes without the crashy sensation some competitors exhibit. The steering is light at low speeds but picks up soothing weight with increasing speed.
Safety – From Compliance to Confidence
Citroën has fitted the C3X with:
6 airbags (front, side, curtain)
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with ABS & EBD
Hill Hold Assist for smoother launches up hills
ISOFIX mounts for child seats to keep them secure and easy to fit
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Engine immobiliser and perimetric alarm
High-speed warnings and speed-sensitive locking
Capabilities – Made for India’s Mixed Bag of Roads
Urban Agility: Narrow footprint ensures parking in tight spaces becomes a cinch, while SUV-like ground clearance has no problem taking tall speed breakers in its stride.
Highway Confidence: Plush suspension and cruise control ensure long drives are a breeze.
Everyday Practicality: 315-litre boot is large enough for weekly shopping or airport trips, with the cabin’s high roof and 2,540 mm wheelbase making it spacious for tall passengers.
Pricing and Availability – Value with a French Twist
Launch Date: 12 August 2025
Price Range: 5.25 lakh – 9.89 lakh (ex-showroom)
Variants: Live NA, Feel NA, Feel Turbo, Shine Turbo (manual & automatic)
Deliveries: Begin from September 2025 across India
Pros and Cons – Direct from the Driver’s Seat
Pros :
Unique SUV-hatch design that turns heads
Significant improvement in build quality and features over the previous C3
Excellent ride comfort for Indian roads
Competitive segment pricing
Several petrol engine choices including a potent turbo
Cons :
No diesel or hybrid powertrain
Naturally aspirated engine lacks power on highways
Citroën’s dealership network still expanding
Final Verdict – More Than Just a new face
The 2025 Citroën C3X is proof that Citroën is able to evolve without loosing its character. It’s comfortable, chic, and utilitarian enough for daily usage but unique enough to be distinguishable amidst a parking lot full of Altos, Swifts, and i20s.
If you desire a vehicle that combines French panache without losing Indian pragmatism, the C3X is definitely worth a drive. And unlike some of its Continental relatives, it won’t break your bank every time you go to the gas pump.
FAQs Regarding the 2025 Citroën C3X
Q1: Is Citroën C3X a crossover or hatchback?
It would be better described as an SUV-inspired premium hatchback.
Q2: What is the mileage?
NA petrol: ~19 km/l (claimed), Turbo petrol: ~17 km/l (manual).
Q3: Does it have an automatic?
Yes, the 1.2 turbo is available with a 6-speed torque converter automatic.
Q4: What’s the warranty?
3 years / 1,00,000 km standard warranty, with optional extension.
Q5: When can I get one?
Bookings are open now; deliveries start in September 2025.
