Citroen C3 Aircross - best crossovers and small SUVs

The Citroen C3 Aircross proves not all SUVs and 4x4s need to be dull

It’s no secret that most SUVs in the UK aren’t driven off-road. One big reason for this is that buyers choose them for how well their SUV qualities work in the normal family car role. 

The Citroen C3 Aircross is one of the cheapest SUVs on sale and not one of the better options for serious off-road driving but it is a brilliantly practical and comfortable family car.

Citroen C3 Aircross review

The C3 Aircross is a funky-looking thing with massive scope for personalisation with different coloured-body panels. The rubber wheel arches and big bumpers help cope with mud and rocks should you wish to take the path less-trodden. 

Despite the absence of four-wheel drive, the C3 Aircross can be had with Grip Control - essentially an advanced stability programme which cuts in to aid traction depending on the surface you’re traversing. The hill descent setting will come in handy for tackling steep slopes. 

The C3 Aircross is available with a PureTech petrol with either 81, 109 or 129bhp or a 1.6-litre BlueHDi diesel with 98bhp or 118bhp. The diesel feels punchy enough with bottom-end torque and relative smoothness. 

Top 10 best crossovers and small SUVs to buy now

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          1. 1. Skoda Karoq
          2. 2. Peugeot 3008 
          3. 3. Citroen C3 Aircross
          4. 4. Range Rover Evoque
          5. 5. Dacia Duster
          6. 6. Volkswagen T-Cross
          7. 7. Toyota RAV4
          8. 8. Audi Q3
          9. 9. Lexus UX 
          10. 10. SEAT Arona
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