@ Citroën / Stellantis Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Citroen C3 Aircross vs VW Polo – Which one offers the better deal?

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

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

An SUV Stance vs. A Hatchback Hustle: Citroen C3 Aircross vs. VW Polo

When it comes to choosing between the Citroen C3 Aircross and the VW Polo, buyers are often split between the allure of a compact SUV and the practicality of a nimble hatchback. Both models, sporting the 2024 badge, offer distinct experiences and are appealing in their own right. Let's delve into the details to see how these cars stack up against each other in terms of design, performance, and modern innovations.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Space

The Citroen C3 Aircross undeniably stands out in the realm of SUVs with its bold and muscular look, characterized by a sturdy body measuring 4395 mm in length and 1660 mm in height. It offers a commanding road presence that contrasts with the sleek, more compact silhouette of the VW Polo, which measures 4074 mm in length and up to 1451 mm in height. Though less imposing, the Polo's refined design combined with its hatchback form makes it an urban charmer.

Space-wise, the C3 Aircross provides an ample trunk capacity of 460 liters, catering to family needs or adventurous outings. On the other hand, the Polo offers a trunk of 351 liters, sufficient for daily commutes or small trips. Both vehicles carry five passengers comfortably, but the SUV inherently offers more legroom and headroom, adding to its appeal among families.

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Under the Hood and Performance

Under the hood, the Citroen C3 Aircross offers multiple configurations, including petrol MHEV, petrol, and electric variants, with power outputs ranging from 101 HP to 136 HP. It also comes with options of dual-clutch automatic and manual gearboxes. Its front-wheel-drive system and torque of up to 230 Nm promise a smooth and controlled drive, achieving a respectable 0-100 km/h acceleration in as little as 11 seconds.

The VW Polo, on the contrary, keeps it conventional with its petrol engine options. With power ranging from a modest 80 HP to a spirited 207 HP, the Polo ensures a varied driving experience. The hatchback reaches the 100 km/h mark in just 6.5 seconds in its most potent variant, while also maintaining efficient fuel consumption, ranging as low as 5.2 L/100 km.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Technical Innovations

Citroen's C3 Aircross stands strong with innovations in hybrid and electric technology, boasting electric ranges up to 306 km, catering to the eco-conscious driver. Additionally, its higher curb weight indicates robust build quality expected from an SUV of its class.

The VW Polo, renowned for its engineering prowess, integrates a punch of power with efficiency. The vehicle’s lightweight build, starting from 1138 kg, combined with lower CO2 emissions, emphasizes its practicality and environmental consideration.

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Driving Experience and Practicality

The Citroen C3 Aircross, with a higher driving position, offers better visibility and road presence, making it ideal for varied terrains and family travels. Meanwhile, the VW Polo's hatchback design lends itself to agile city driving, with a nimbleness and compactness that make parking and maneuvering through tight spots a breeze.

Comparatively, the C3 Aircross’s larger fuel tank, with a capacity of 44 liters, is conducive for longer journeys, whereas the Polo's 40-liter tank tags along well for urban commutes, complementing its impressive fuel economy.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Conclusion

The decision between the Citroen C3 Aircross and the VW Polo hinges largely on lifestyle preferences. If your heart aligns with adventurous escapes and you value the versatility of a compact SUV, the C3 Aircross serves as a compelling option. Conversely, for those who navigate urban landscapes and appreciate energetic yet efficient drives with sporty roots, the VW Polo remains a steadfast companion. In essence, both models represent excellent choices, each with its own brand of charm and functionality.

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

C3 Aircross @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Citroen C3 Aircross has a minimal advantage in terms of price – it starts at 16200 £, while the VW Polo costs 17000 £. That’s a price difference of around 810 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Polo manages with 5.10 L and is therefore barely noticeable more efficient than the Citroen C3 Aircross with 5.30 L. The difference is about 0.20 L per 100 km.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the VW Polo has a clearly perceptible edge – offering 207 HP compared to 145 HP. That’s roughly 62 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Polo is decisively quicker – completing the sprint in 6.50 s, while the Citroen C3 Aircross takes 12.30 s. That’s about 5.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Polo performs to a small extent better – reaching 240 km/h, while the Citroen C3 Aircross tops out at 201 km/h. The difference is around 39 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Polo pulls distinct stronger with 320 Nm compared to 230 Nm. That’s about 90 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, VW Polo is somewhat lighter – 1143 kg compared to 1312 kg. The difference is around 169 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Citroen C3 Aircross offers noticeable more room – 460 L compared to 351 L. That’s a difference of about 109 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Citroen C3 Aircross performs distinct better – up to 1600 L, which is about 475 L more than the VW Polo.

When it comes to payload, Citroen C3 Aircross hardly perceptible takes the win – 462 kg compared to 457 kg. That’s a difference of about 5 kg.

Who wins the race?

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

from about £17,000
Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW Polo

  • Engine Type : Petrol
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 80 - 207 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5.1 - 6.5 L
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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
cl22010004-62d84cb377731 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
cl22010002-62d84ccb93b32 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
cl22010003-62d84cbdece69 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media
c3_aircross_rip_curl_innen_1-62d84d1640e18 @ Citroën / Stellantis Media

VW Polo

The Polo is a small car with surprisingly grown-up refinement, delivering comfortable packaging, crisp handling and a build quality that punches above its class. For buyers who want a practical, fuss-free hatch that still feels a little premium, it’s a sensible, slightly cheeky choice you’ll enjoy every day.

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DB2021AU00726_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00728_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00732_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00735_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00736_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00741_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

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Costs and Consumption
Price
16200 - 28200 £
Price
17000 - 30400 £
Consumption L/100km
5.3 - 5.9 L
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 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
116 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
44 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1312 - 1608 kg
Curb weight
1143 - 1378 kg
Trunk capacity
460 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
4395 mm
Length
4074 mm
Width
1795 mm
Width
1751 mm
Height
1640 - 1660 mm
Height
1431 - 1451 mm
Max trunk capacity
1600 L
Max trunk capacity
1125 L
Payload
407 - 462 kg
Payload
432 - 457 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
101 - 145 HP
Power HP
80 - 207 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
12.3 - 13 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
Max Speed
143 - 201 km/h
Max Speed
171 - 240 km/h
Torque
125 - 230 Nm
Torque
93 - 320 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
74 - 107 kW
Power kW
59 - 152 kW
Engine capacity
1199 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3

General
Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Citroen
Brand
VW

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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.