Is this the next-gen Ambassador?

The Stellantis-owned French automotive giant, Citroen, is implementing a product offensive strategy and launching new vehicles in the country to capture a larger market share. Most recently, the company introduced the C3 Aircross mid-size SUV. Reports have now emerged, revealing that the company intends to launch an all-new C3-based crossover sedan to compete against mid-size sedans like the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, and others. According to ACI, this unique sedan, codenamed C3X, could be launched sometime in 2024.

As of now, information on this crossover sedan is scarce. However, speculations suggest that the company may be introducing it as the next-generation iteration of the iconic Indian sedan, the Ambassador. For those unfamiliar, in February 2017, the French automotive group PSA signed a joint-venture deal with CK Birla Group to manufacture and sell vehicles and components in India by 2020. The two enterprises also signed another agreement for the iconic Ambassador brand, including its trademarks, which were acquired by the French automotive group in a deal worth Rs 80 crore. Hence, it is believed that the company might revive this iconic name with the launch of this sedan.

In terms of design, this upcoming crossover sedan is expected to feature a front-end design similar to its siblings, such as the C3 and the C3 Aircross. This implies that we may once again see the signature Citroën Y-shaped LED headlamps and its popular double grille. Moving to the sides, the C3X could also incorporate some rugged styling cues, like thick black claddings. At the rear, it may sport a tapered roofline, lending it a sporty coupe-like appearance. Overall, this sedan will be a unique offering in the country, carving out its own niche within the mid-size sedan segment.

Also read: Citroen C3 mini SUV spied ahead of launch

Dimensionally, this sedan is projected to measure around 4.3-4.4 meters and share a wheelbase similar to its SUV sibling, the C3 Aircross, as both will be based on the already launched CMP modular platform. It is highly likely that this upcoming sedan will also share many components with its already launched Citroen siblings to keep costs in check. This suggests that we may see the same interior layout and equipment, including a 10-inch (26 cm) touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 7-inch (17.8 cm) color TFT cluster screen.

On the drivetrain front, the upcoming crossover sedan is expected to offer a 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine, capable of delivering a maximum power of 110 hp and 190 Nm of torque, similar to its SUV sibling, the C3 Aircross. The transmission duties will most likely be handled by a six-speed manual gearbox, with the possibility of a manual option as well. Reports also indicate the possibility of an electric powertrain option.

Regarding the launch dates for this distinct sedan, no official confirmation has been provided. However, it is believed that the company could launch this sedan sometime in June or July 2024. The electrified variant might make its debut in January 2025. As for the pricing of this particular sedan, no information has been disclosed. However, it is expected to be positioned within the price range of Rs 12-20 lakh, considering its competition in the mid-size sedan segment.

Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500

The Stellantis-owned French automotive giant, Citroen, is implementing a product offensive strategy and launching new vehicles in the country to capture a larger market share. Most recently, the company introduced the C3 Aircross mid-size SUV. Reports have now emerged, revealing that the company intends to launch an all-new C3-based crossover sedan to compete against mid-size sedans like the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, and others. According to ACI, this unique sedan, codenamed C3X, could be launched sometime in 2024.

As of now, information on this crossover sedan is scarce. However, speculations suggest that the company may be introducing it as the next-generation iteration of the iconic Indian sedan, the Ambassador. For those unfamiliar, in February 2017, the French automotive group PSA signed a joint-venture deal with CK Birla Group to manufacture and sell vehicles and components in India by 2020. The two enterprises also signed another agreement for the iconic Ambassador brand, including its trademarks, which were acquired by the French automotive group in a deal worth Rs 80 crore. Hence, it is believed that the company might revive this iconic name with the launch of this sedan.

In terms of design, this upcoming crossover sedan is expected to feature a front-end design similar to its siblings, such as the C3 and the C3 Aircross. This implies that we may once again see the signature Citroën Y-shaped LED headlamps and its popular double grille. Moving to the sides, the C3X could also incorporate some rugged styling cues, like thick black claddings. At the rear, it may sport a tapered roofline, lending it a sporty coupe-like appearance. Overall, this sedan will be a unique offering in the country, carving out its own niche within the mid-size sedan segment.

Also read: Citroen C3 mini SUV spied ahead of launch

Dimensionally, this sedan is projected to measure around 4.3-4.4 meters and share a wheelbase similar to its SUV sibling, the C3 Aircross, as both will be based on the already launched CMP modular platform. It is highly likely that this upcoming sedan will also share many components with its already launched Citroen siblings to keep costs in check. This suggests that we may see the same interior layout and equipment, including a 10-inch (26 cm) touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 7-inch (17.8 cm) color TFT cluster screen.

On the drivetrain front, the upcoming crossover sedan is expected to offer a 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine, capable of delivering a maximum power of 110 hp and 190 Nm of torque, similar to its SUV sibling, the C3 Aircross. The transmission duties will most likely be handled by a six-speed manual gearbox, with the possibility of a manual option as well. Reports also indicate the possibility of an electric powertrain option.

Regarding the launch dates for this distinct sedan, no official confirmation has been provided. However, it is believed that the company could launch this sedan sometime in June or July 2024. The electrified variant might make its debut in January 2025. As for the pricing of this particular sedan, no information has been disclosed. However, it is expected to be positioned within the price range of Rs 12-20 lakh, considering its competition in the mid-size sedan segment.

Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500