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Dacia Duster vs Citroen C3 Aircross comparison

Compare performance (158 HP vs 145 HP), boot space and price (16,300 £ vs 16,200 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Dacia Duster or Citroen C3 Aircross?

Dacia Duster vs Citroen C3 Aircross: Key differences

Dacia Duster

5 (2 Reviews)
rate
  • barely more power
  • a bit more efficient
  • noticeably quicker 0–100 km/h
  • somewhat more trunk space

Citroen C3 Aircross

4.4 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • very slightly cheaper
  • marginally lighter

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

Duster

Citroen C3 Aircross vs Dacia Duster: An SUV Showdown

In the competitive SUV segment, two models stand out for their impressive features and unique offerings: the Citroen C3 Aircross and the Dacia Duster. Both vehicles provide practicality, flexibility, and style, but they cater to slightly different audiences. In this article, we will compare these two popular SUVs based on technical aspects, performance, and innovative features that set them apart.

C3 Aircross

Engine Options and Performance

The Citroen C3 Aircross offers a versatile lineup of engines, including petrol MHEV, traditional petrol, and fully electric variants, appealing to a broad range of drivers. With power outputs ranging from 101 to 136 HP, it provides ample performance for city driving and occasional adventures. Notably, the C3 Aircross boasts a maximum torque of up to 230 Nm and offers acceleration from 0-100 km/h in as little as 11 seconds.

In contrast, the Dacia Duster's engine suite features options for petrol MHEV, LPG, and full hybrid systems, with power outputs from 91 to 140 HP. This allows Duster to cater to consumers looking for an economical choice without sacrificing performance, achieving 0-100 km/h in as little as 9.9 seconds. With a higher maximum torque of 230 Nm, the Duster excels in power delivery, especially in off-road situations.

Duster

Fuel Efficiency

Both SUVs present competitive fuel consumption figures, but the Citroen C3 Aircross edges out slightly in this department. The C3 Aircross ranges from 5.5 L/100 km to 6.2 L/100 km, making it a great option for those conscious of their fuel expenditure. Its electric variant also offers a commendable electric range of up to 306 km, which is an appealing feature for eco-conscious drivers.

The Dacia Duster, though slightly less fuel-efficient, still impresses with a consumption range of 5 to 8.1 L/100 km depending on the choice of engine. The Duster provides ample flexibility for diverse driving conditions, proving itself as a reliable companion for both urban and rural explorations.

C3 Aircross

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside, both the C3 Aircross and the Duster are designed with practicality in mind. The Citroen C3 Aircross features a spacious cabin with an impressive trunk capacity of 460 liters, which is perfect for family outings or weekend getaways. Its interior is characterized by comfortable seating for five and an array of technological innovations, such as a touchscreen infotainment system that supports smartphone connectivity.

The Dacia Duster, renowned for its robust design, offers a competitive trunk space that ranges from 430 to 517 liters, which can cater to varied storage needs. The Duster is equipped with modern technology, albeit with a more utilitarian interface compared to the C3 Aircross. Nonetheless, it still provides essential connectivity features that make driving enjoyable.

Duster

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is paramount in both vehicles, with each model equipped with a range of advanced safety features. The Citroen C3 Aircross includes a suite of driver assistance systems like lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking, which enhance confidence on the road. Its CO2 emissions rating also emphasizes lower environmental impacts, which could be a deciding factor for eco-conscious consumers.

The Dacia Duster, also focused on safety, incorporates several useful safety aids including stability control and traction control systems. While it may not boast the same advanced features as the C3 Aircross, it does offer solid performance in crash test ratings, providing peace of mind to its drivers.

C3 Aircross

Conclusion: Choosing the Right SUV

Both the Citroen C3 Aircross and Dacia Duster have their merits, catering to different preferences in the SUV market. The C3 Aircross shines with its modern design, extensive engine options, and cutting-edge technologies, making it ideal for those looking for comfort and efficiency. On the other hand, the Duster impresses with its rugged performance, versatility in fuel options, and practicality, which makes it a fantastic choice for adventurous drivers who want a robust vehicle without breaking the bank.

Ultimately, the ideal SUV will depend on individual needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you lean towards the sophisticated Citroen C3 Aircross or the dependable Dacia Duster, both provide an exciting driving experience filled with innovation and reliability.

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Citroen C3 Aircross
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In a head-to-head comparison, the Citroen C3 Aircross showcases its compact versatility and modern styling, appealing to urban drivers seeking practicality without compromising on flair. On the other hand, the Opel Frontera offers rugged capability and a robust design, perfect for those craving …
Dacia Duster
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Duster

Costs and Efficiency:

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

Citroen C3 Aircross is very slightly cheaper – starting at 16,200 £ , while the Dacia Duster costs 16,300 £ . That’s a price difference of around 86 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Dacia Duster uses 4.7 L/100km and is a bit more efficient than the Citroen C3 Aircross with 5.3 L/100km. The difference is about 0.6 L/100km.

C3 Aircross

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 Dacia Duster offers barely more power – delivering 158 HP compared to 145 HP. That’s roughly 13 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Dacia Duster is noticeably quicker – completing the sprint in 9.4 s, while the Citroen C3 Aircross takes 12.3 s. That’s about 2.9 s quicker.

Looking at top speed, the Dacia Duster is visibly faster – reaching 180 km/h, while the Citroen C3 Aircross tops out at 143 km/h. The difference is around 37 km/h.

Both models offer the same torque – 230 Nm.

Duster

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Citroen C3 Aircross is marginally lighter – 1,312 kg compared to 1,377 kg. The difference is around 65 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Dacia Duster offers somewhat more boot space – 517 L compared to 460 L. That’s a difference of about 57 L.

For maximum load capacity, the Dacia Duster offers marginally more capacity – up to 1,609 L, about 9 L more than the Citroen C3 Aircross.

When it comes to payload, the Citroen C3 Aircross carries marginally more – 462 kg compared to 453 kg. That’s a difference of about 9 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Dacia Duster leads convincingly in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £16,300
Duster

Dacia Duster

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid, LPG
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 115 - 158 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.7 - 7.6 L/100km
details
Dacia Duster
Citroen C3 Aircross

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Dacia Duster

The Dacia Duster is a no-nonsense compact SUV that delivers rugged practicality and surprisingly comfortable everyday driving without fuss. It might not win any beauty contests, but its honest design, easy-to-live-with cabin and tough attitude make it a smart pick for buyers who want reliable transport without luxury frills.

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Reviews Dacia Duster

5 (2 Reviews)
rate
Buh
14 Dec 2025, 22:40:05

I find the difference between the two very minimal.
And for almost €20k more 💶 I would absolutely not choose the Tiguan.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Value for Money

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.

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Reviews Citroen C3 Aircross

4.4 (1 Reviews)
rate

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

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Citroen C3 Aircross

Costs and Consumption
Price
16,300 - 24,900 £
Price
16,200 - 28,900 £
Consumption L/100km
4.7 - 7.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
5.3 - 5.9 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
16.1 - 18.3 kWh/100km
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
303 - 400 km
Battery Capacity
0.6 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
107 - 140 g/km
co2
0 - 134 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
50 L
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1,377 - 1,455 kg
Curb weight
1,312 - 1,608 kg
Trunk capacity
348 - 517 L
Trunk capacity
460 L
Length
4,343 mm
Length
4,395 mm
Width
1,813 mm
Width
1,795 mm
Height
1,656 - 1,659 mm
Height
1,640 mm
Max trunk capacity
1,414 - 1,609 L
Max trunk capacity
1,600 L
Payload
402 - 453 kg
Payload
407 - 462 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid, LPG
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol, Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automated Manual, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
115 - 158 HP
Power HP
101 - 145 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.4 - 11.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
12.3 - 13 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
143 km/h
Torque
190 - 230 Nm
Torque
125 - 230 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
3
Power kW
84 - 116 kW
Power kW
74 - 107 kW
Engine capacity
1,199 - 1,789 cm3
Engine capacity
1,199 cm3

General
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
Model Year
2,024 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D
Brand
Dacia
Brand
Citroen
What drivetrain options does the Dacia Duster have?

The Dacia Duster is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.