More than four years since launching in China,
Citroën’s C3-XR B-segment crossover gets its first facelift. Arriving in spring, the refreshed
C3-XR brings mostly styling upgrades that reflect the brand’s new identity. The
main design changes happen at the front, where the C3-XR adopts a new high-set
bonnet inspired by the new C5 Aircross, a new light signature that reminds of
the CXPerience concept car, and headlights that are now better integrated with
the chevrons.
Also new are the intermediate grille that features a
typical Citroën capsule pattern finish (a nod to the C4 Aircross) and the red
or silver inserts in the front bumper.
Viewed from the side, the facelifted C3-XR doesn’t
seem to feature any changes outside the new 16-inch two-tone diamond-cut
alloys. As for the rear, the small SUV gains refreshed taillights with a new
light signature consisting of four rectangular modules inspired by the C5
Aircross. The tailgate adds new two-color chevrons in chrome and glossy black,
as well as new C3-XR lettering. There are three exterior color combinations
available.
Inside, the refreshed SUV benefits from a new HSAE
infotainment system featuring a 9-inch screen, two USB sockets, as well as
Apple CarPlay, Baidu Carlife, and MirrorLink smartphone connectivity. There’s
also a new ergonomic gearshift lever for the automatic transmission with a
leather handle and bellows. Customers can choose between two interior color
schemes.
There’s no mention of technical upgrades so we
assume the 160 PS 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and standard
6-speed automatic gearbox carry over unchanged. The 2019 Citroën C3-XR will go
on sale in China this spring as the brand’s entry-level SUV, positioned below
the C4 Aircross SUV and C5 Aircross. The C3-XR has been sold in nearly 180,000
units since production started in Wuhan, China in late 2014.
