The Citroen C3 automatic spotted testing shows features like a rear wiper and alloy wheels.
We had earlier reported that an automatic Citroen C3 was in the works, and now the first set of spy shots have emerged showing it being tested in India. The photos show that the automatic version will bring in additional features that were missing in the C3 that launched in July 2022.
- C3 automatic to use 6-speed torque converter
- Citroen could offer automatic version in higher-spec C3 variant
Since launch, the C3 range only offers a manual gearbox and variants which are quite light on features. Missing, for instance, are bits like a rear wash and wipe system, which has been to the bewilderment of consumers and the media alike.
Now, though, it appears that the company has paid heed to the feedback. Seen in the spy shots are a rear wiper and wash system, a rear defogger and a set of alloy wheels – features missing so far on both variants of the manual version. Alloy wheels, however, are a dealer fit option.
As it appears, Citroen is set to offer the automatic version in a higher-spec C3 variant, or load the current variants with the additional features.
Citroen C3 automatic: details
Unlike most others in this segment that use an automated manual transmission (AMT), the Citroen C3 automatic will use a 6-speed torque converter, (sun and planetary) gearbox. Sourced from Japanese gearbox makers Aisin, the set-up should easily provide the C3 with a far smoother drive experience, though it remains to be seen how competitive its pricing would be. Torque converter gearboxes are generally far more expensive than automated manual systems, which is why they are seldom used in the lower end of the market.
The addition of these new features is certainly an attempt to value up the automatic version of the C3. So far it is not known if the features would also be offered on the manual car, however, Citroen would do well to do so, given the positioning of the C3 and the basic nature of its equipment.
Citroen C3 automatic: estimated launch and price
Citroen is likely to launch the C3 automatic sometime next year. Given the additional features and an automatic gearbox, it is likely that Citroen will price the C3 automatic Rs 1 lakh more than the manual version.
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