@ Citroën / Stellantis Media
@ Opel / Stellantis Media
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Citroen C3 Aircross vs Vauxhall Frontera – Differences & prices compared

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

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

The subcompact SUV market has been transformed with the introduction of versatile models that promise not only style but also performance and practicality. In this comparison, we will delve into two intriguing contenders: the Citroën C3 Aircross and the Opel Frontera. Both vehicles boast features that cater to modern drivers, but which one reigns supreme in the SUV segment?

Frontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media

Design and Dimensions

The Citroën C3 Aircross presents a bold and lovable look with its SUV styling. Measuring 4,395 mm in length, 1,795 mm in width, and standing at 1,660 mm tall, it offers a commanding presence on the road. Not to be outdone, the Opel Frontera is slightly shorter at 4,385 mm, yet maintains the same width and an overall height of 1,635 mm. Both vehicles embody the essence of an SUV, with the C3 Aircross providing a cabin that feels spacious and airy, perfect for urban and outdoor excursions alike.

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Powertrain Options

Performance is a critical aspect of any car comparison. The Citroën C3 Aircross offers a variety of powertrains, including petrol MHEV, standard petrol, and an electric option. Its petrol engines output power ranging from 101 HP to 136 HP and feature advanced technology designed to optimize fuel consumption, yielding figures between 5.5 and 6.2 L/100 km. Additionally, its electric variant provides a range of up to 306 km on a single charge, marking its relevance in a progressively green automotive landscape.

On the other hand, the Opel Frontera offers a potent mix of power options with similar output and technical specifications. Both vehicles come with an electric variant; however, the Frontera leads with a top max speed of 190 km/h compared to the C3 Aircross's 179 km/h. Both models are equipped with front-wheel drive and multiple transmission options, including dual-clutch automatics for seamless power delivery.

Frontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media

Performance and Handling

When it comes to acceleration, the C3 Aircross records a 0-100 km/h time of up to 11.4 seconds, showcasing its capability in everyday driving scenarios. The Opel Frontera outshines with slightly quicker acceleration figures, ranging from 9 to 12.1 seconds, enhancing its appeal for those who prioritize a spirited driving experience.

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Interior Comfort and Cargo Space

Inside, both vehicles boast an array of tech features and spacious cabin layouts. The C3 Aircross features comfortable seating for five and offers generous trunk space of 460 liters, making it practical for weekend getaways or grocery runs. Apart from a comparable seating capacity, the Frontera gives a nod to versatility with an option for a seven-seater configuration, making it a more suitable choice for larger families or groups.

Frontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is a crucial element for eco-conscious consumers. The C3 Aircross records CO2 emissions of 125 g/km for its petrol engines, while the Frontera performs admirably with slightly lower emissions of 122 g/km. Both vehicles come with a fuel tank capacity of 44 liters, supporting long-distance travel without frequent stops.

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Safety and Driving Technologies

Safety is paramount in today's automotive designs. The C3 Aircross and Opel Frontera come equipped with advanced safety features that assist drivers in ensuring the well-being of themselves and their passengers. Innovations such as lane departure warning, parking assistance, and adaptive cruise control can be expected in both models, setting a high standard in their respective classes.

Conclusion

In this face-off, the Citroën C3 Aircross and Opel Frontera both present compelling packages for consumers in search of an SUV that combines comfort, performance, and practicality. The C3 Aircross offers modern aesthetics and a slightly more efficient ride, while the Frontera gives emphasis on performance and versatility with its seating options. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your individual driving needs and lifestyle preferences.

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

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 evident advantage in terms of price – it starts at 16200 £, while the Vauxhall Frontera costs 20500 £. That’s a price difference of around 4294 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Vauxhall Frontera manages with 5.20 L and is therefore slight more efficient than the Citroen C3 Aircross with 5.30 L. The difference is about 0.10 L per 100 km.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the Vauxhall Frontera: with 15.80 kWh per 100 km, it’s barely noticeable more efficient than the Citroen C3 Aircross with 16.30 kWh. That’s a difference of about 0.50 kWh.

As for range, the Vauxhall Frontera performs hardly perceptible better – achieving up to 408 km, about 8 km more than the Citroen C3 Aircross.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

Both models deliver identical power – 145 HP each.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Vauxhall Frontera is noticeable quicker – completing the sprint in 9 s, while the Citroen C3 Aircross takes 12.30 s. That’s about 3.30 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Citroen C3 Aircross performs slight better – reaching 201 km/h, while the Vauxhall Frontera tops out at 194 km/h. The difference is around 7 km/h.

Both models offer the same torque – 230 Nm.

Space and Everyday Use:

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

Seats: Vauxhall Frontera offers distinct more seating capacity – 7 vs 5.

In curb weight, Citroen C3 Aircross is hardly perceptible lighter – 1312 kg compared to 1344 kg. The difference is around 32 kg.

Boot capacity is identical – both offer 460 L of storage.

Maximum load volume is the same – both hold up to 1600 L.

When it comes to payload, Vauxhall Frontera evident takes the win – 644 kg compared to 462 kg. That’s a difference of about 182 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Vauxhall Frontera proves to be leaves the rival little chance and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Vauxhall Frontera is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £20,500
Frontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media

Vauxhall Frontera

  • Engine Type : Electric, Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 110 - 145 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5.20 L
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 15.8 - 18.2 kWh
  • Electric Range : 305 - 408 km

Citroen C3 Aircross

The Citroen C3 Aircross exudes a distinctive, contemporary charm with its robust design and elevated stance. It's perfectly suited for urban driving, offering a comfortable and spacious interior that can accommodate both passengers and luggage with ease. The vehicle combines practicality with a touch of adventure, making it a versatile choice for both city commutes and weekend getaways.

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Vauxhall Frontera

5 (1)
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The Opel Frontera stands out as a rugged SUV designed for adventurous drivers seeking versatility and off-road capability. Its robust exterior design is complemented by a roomy interior, providing ample space for passengers and luggage alike. With its reliable performance and sturdy build, the Frontera is well-suited for both urban environments and more challenging terrains.

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Citroen C3 Aircross
Vauxhall Frontera
C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
Frontera @ Opel / Stellantis Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
16200 - 28200 £
Price
20500 - 30000 £
Consumption L/100km
5.3 - 5.9 L
Consumption L/100km
5.20 L
Consumption kWh/100km
16.3 - 18.3 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
15.8 - 18.2 kWh
Electric Range
303 - 400 km
Electric Range
305 - 408 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 134 g/km
co2
0 - 119 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
44 L
Fuel tank capacity
44 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5 - 7
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1312 - 1608 kg
Curb weight
1344 - 1610 kg
Trunk capacity
460 L
Trunk capacity
460 L
Length
4395 mm
Length
4385 mm
Width
1795 mm
Width
1795 mm
Height
1640 - 1660 mm
Height
1635 mm
Max trunk capacity
1600 L
Max trunk capacity
1600 L
Payload
407 - 462 kg
Payload
436 - 644 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
101 - 145 HP
Power HP
110 - 145 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
12.3 - 13 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9 - 14.2 s
Max Speed
143 - 201 km/h
Max Speed
143 - 194 km/h
Torque
125 - 230 Nm
Torque
125 - 230 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3
Power kW
74 - 107 kW
Power kW
81 - 107 kW
Engine capacity
1199 cm3
Engine capacity
1199 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D
Brand
Citroen
Brand
Vauxhall
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.