Nearly new buying guide: Citroen C3 Aircross

It’s quite refined, though, and it’s pleasant enough to drive, although the steering is vague and the numb clutch takes some getting used to.

There’s more to get excited about inside the C3 Aircross than in most small SUVs. From the art-deco air vents to the silver accents below the touchscreen, everything has been designed to be interesting to look at rather than purely functional.

Each model gets its own colour scheme, while part-leather seats are optional on swanky Shine Plus trim.

And practicality is where the C3 Aircross comes into its own. Its boxy shape means a spacious boot, and the rear and front passenger seats fold down so you can carry large items.

What’s more, on Flair/Shine Plus trim, the rear seats form a sliding bench, enabling you to choose a greater boot volume or more rear knee room.

Some C3 Aircrosses are fitted with an optional glass sunroof, but this compromises head room, so if you’re more than 6ft tall, you might want to avoid such examples.

BUYER BEWARE

Wheels The 17in alloy wheels are easily kerbed, while the diamond-cut design will quickly corrode if the protective lacquer coating is compromised and water and road salt can make contact with the metal surface below.

Body Only top-spec Flair models get rear parking sensors as standard, so you’ll need to look for parking scrapes or dents. 

Interior Some of the lighter seat colours show stains and marks easily. Fit and finish is only middling so check for annoying irregularities as well as buzzes, creaks and rattles. 

Need to know

The diesel is officially the most frugal, achieving 67.2mpg, while the Puretech 110 is rated at 51.5mpg and the Puretech 130 47.3mpg.

Prices start at around £9000, which gets you a 2017 or 2018 1.2 Puretech Feel. Spend up to £11,000 on a top-spec 2018 model or push the budget to between £12,000 to £17,000 for a 2020 or 2021 car.

The C3 Aircross has been the subject of a number of recalls, including to fix incorrect emission levels and faulty seat-position sensors. Make sure to check that the car you’re buying has had any recall issues dealt with.

The C3 Aircross achieved a full five-star Euro NCAP safety rating when it was tested back in November 2017.

Our pick

1.2 Puretech 110

The 108bhp engine is decently refined and plenty punchy enough, so you won’t be yearning for the 130’s extra poke. It’s more frugal, too. The diesel is yet more so, but the Puretech units are sweeter and suit the C3 Aircross better.