Citroen C3 to get a 6 speed automatic gearbox, upgraded engines

The recently launched C3 high-riding hatchback is French automaker Citroen’s mass market offering, with prices starting from just Rs. 5.71 lakh. The Citroen C3, which while being a well-engineering high-riding hatchback ideal for Indian road conditions, misses the all-important automatic gearbox equipped trims. According to ACI, Citroen will fix this in the second half of next year by adding a 6 speed torque converter automatic gearbox option to the C3’s Indian range.

The torque converter automatic gearbox will be sourced from Japanese transmission specialist Aisin, who also supplies automatic gearboxes to the likes of the Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun and the MG Astor. Torque converter automatic gearboxes are much more smoother than automated manual transmissions (AMT) – currently the range in budget car segments of India. Torque converters are also smoother than dual clutch automatic gearboxes, and are far more reliable.

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Currently, the Citroen C3 high-riding hatchback sold in India offers a ground clearance of 180 mm, and is available with two petrol engines, both of them displacing 1.2 liters and featuring a 3 cylinder layout. One of these engines is a naturally aspirated unit with 80 Bhp-115 Nm outputs, and a 5 speed manual gearbox while the other is a turbocharged unit with segment-best outputs of 109 Bhp-190 Nm, and a 6 speed manual gearbox. We expect the turbo petrol engine to gain the automatic gearbox option, making it very attractive for buyers looking at a smooth, fuss-free commuting experience. Notably, both the engines offered on the Citroen C3 are in their second generation, and the third generation is due next year.

The upgraded petrol engines will also be added to the Citroen C3 range in India next year. It remains unclear if the newer engines will have major changes in performance and fuel efficiency. Apart from adding new engines to the C3, Citroen is also expected to usher in a CNG-Petrol dual fuel variant for mileage conscious buyers. Another key addition to the C3 range will be an all-electric powertrain.

The electric variant of the Citroen C3 will make its global debut by the end of this year. The electric variant is likely to make it to the Indian market sometime next year. The Citroen C3 electric is expected to be positioned alongside the Tata Tigor EV in terms of pricing, giving it a distinct advantage over the pricier Tata Nexon Electric.

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