@ Citroën / Stellantis Media
@ Nissan Motor Corporation
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Citroen C3 Aircross vs Nissan Qashqai – Which car suits you better?

Two cars, one duel: Citroen C3 Aircross meets Nissan Qashqai.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Compact Showdown: Citroen C3 Aircross vs Nissan Qashqai

In the bustling world of compact SUVs, two contenders stand out: the Citroen C3 Aircross and the Nissan Qashqai. Both offer a blend of style, innovation, and performance tailored for urban adventures. Let’s dissect their technical prowess and see which shines brighter for the 2024 model year.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Engine Options and Performance

The Citroen C3 Aircross presents diversity under its hood with options ranging from a traditional petrol engine to a cutting-edge electric powertrain. With power outputs spanning from 101 HP to 136 HP, it offers a practical balance between power and efficiency. Having a max torque of up to 230 Nm and an acceleration time of 11.4 seconds from 0-100 km/h, it caters well to everyday driving needs.

In contrast, the Nissan Qashqai is driven by a more potent lineup, including petrol mild hybrid and full hybrid options. The power range of 140 to 190 HP, coupled with a torque reaching up to 330 Nm, facilitates a brisk acceleration; the fastest model zooms to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. The Qashqai manages higher maximum speeds, enhancing its appeal for thrill-seekers.

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Fuel Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness

C3 Aircross impresses with its eco-friendly credentials, especially in its electric variant boasting an electric range of over 300 km and a consumption as low as 18.2 kWh/100km. For petrol engines, it achieves noteworthy economy with consumption ranging between 5.5 and 6.2 L/100km.

Nissan Qashqai balances performance with fuel efficiency, offering consumption figures between 5.1 and 6.8 L/100km, thanks to its modern hybrid technology. Despite being slightly less efficient in its base models, its overall CO2 efficiency class remains competitive.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Size and Practicality

The Citroen C3 Aircross provides ample space with a trunk capacity of 460 liters, suitable for most family outings. Its dimensions, measuring at 4395 mm in length and 1795 mm in width, strike a balance between compact maneuverability and interior comfort.

Nissan's Qashqai surpasses slightly in bulk, offering a bigger trunk at 504 liters and expanded dimensions of 4425 mm in length and 1835 mm in width, ideal for those who frequently transport larger loads. Its enhanced configuration reflects in its payload capacity—an advantageous factor for adventurous expeditions.

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Modern Innovations

Both models integrate technological advances, such as advanced driver-assistance systems, smartphone integration, and intuitive infotainment systems. The C3 Aircross shines with standard features like a customizable digital dashboard, whereas the Qashqai emphasizes its seamless hybrid technology and robust safety suite.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Final Verdict

Choosing between the Citroen C3 Aircross and the Nissan Qashqai hinges on individual preferences. The C3 Aircross is perfect for drivers prioritizing urban efficiency and sustainability, particularly in its electric form. Conversely, the Qashqai's superior power, slightly larger frame, and innovative hybrid systems make it a prime choice for families seeking versatility and performance.

No matter the selection, both vehicles reflect modern strides in automotive excellence—testament to the innovative spirit steering the compact SUV segment. Both manufacturers promise a ride that is both dynamic and efficient, with just enough spice to make everyday drives delightfully unforgettable.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Citroen C3 Aircross has a decisively advantage in terms of price – it starts at 16200 £, while the Nissan Qashqai costs 29600 £. That’s a price difference of around 13414 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Nissan Qashqai manages with 4.50 L and is therefore a bit more efficient than the Citroen C3 Aircross with 5.30 L. The difference is about 0.80 L per 100 km.

Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Nissan Qashqai has a noticeable edge – offering 205 HP compared to 145 HP. That’s roughly 60 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Nissan Qashqai is decisively quicker – completing the sprint in 7.60 s, while the Citroen C3 Aircross takes 12.30 s. That’s about 4.70 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Nissan Qashqai performs barely noticeable better – reaching 206 km/h, while the Citroen C3 Aircross tops out at 201 km/h. The difference is around 5 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Nissan Qashqai pulls evident stronger with 330 Nm compared to 230 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Citroen C3 Aircross is slight lighter – 1312 kg compared to 1420 kg. The difference is around 108 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Nissan Qashqai offers slight more room – 504 L compared to 460 L. That’s a difference of about 44 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Citroen C3 Aircross performs barely noticeable better – up to 1600 L, which is about 153 L more than the Nissan Qashqai.

When it comes to payload, Nissan Qashqai to a small extent takes the win – 520 kg compared to 462 kg. That’s a difference of about 58 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Nissan Qashqai proves to be is largely superior and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Nissan Qashqai is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £29,600
Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Nissan Qashqai

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 140 - 205 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.5 - 6.8 L

Citroen C3 Aircross

The Citroën C3 Aircross is a cheeky compact SUV that trades bland conformity for playful French character and clever practicality, ideal if you want a car with personality. It soaks up city life with a comfortable ride, inventive cabin tricks and a look that turns heads without asking for attention.

details

Nissan Qashqai

The Nissan Qashqai blends practical, family-friendly packaging with SUV styling that refuses to shout, making it a sensible and dependable choice for everyday life. It’s comfortable to live with, economical on the road, and neatly equipped enough to feel modern without ever feeling precious — perfect if you want crossover versatility without the drama.

details
Citroen C3 Aircross
Nissan Qashqai
C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
Qashqai @ Nissan Motor Corporation

Costs and Consumption

Price
16200 - 28200 £
Price
29600 - 39900 £
Consumption L/100km
5.3 - 5.9 L
Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 6.8 L
Consumption kWh/100km
16.3 - 18.3 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
303 - 400 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 134 g/km
co2
102 - 154 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
44 L
Fuel tank capacity
55 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1312 - 1608 kg
Curb weight
1420 - 1665 kg
Trunk capacity
460 L
Trunk capacity
479 - 504 L
Length
4395 mm
Length
4425 mm
Width
1795 mm
Width
1835 mm
Height
1640 - 1660 mm
Height
1625 mm
Max trunk capacity
1600 L
Max trunk capacity
1422 - 1447 L
Payload
407 - 462 kg
Payload
466 - 520 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
101 - 145 HP
Power HP
140 - 205 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
12.3 - 13 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.6 - 10.2 s
Max Speed
143 - 201 km/h
Max Speed
170 - 206 km/h
Torque
125 - 230 Nm
Torque
240 - 330 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
74 - 107 kW
Power kW
103 - 151 kW
Engine capacity
1199 cm3
Engine capacity
1332 - 1498 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
Brand
Citroen
Brand
Nissan
What drivetrain options does the Citroen C3 Aircross have?

The Citroen C3 Aircross is offered with Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.