Bucket Seat: Renault Kiger 1.0L Turbo Iconic CVT

Renault's Kiger recently got an additional engine to it's line up, a 1.0L Turbo Petrol engine that gives the car more life. It's something that in my opinion the car needed as it's a decent affordable offering from the French manufacturer but the 1.5L naturally aspirated motor seemed a bit flat when I drove it earlier this year. The Kiger Turbo doesn't just stop at the engine upgrade but the interior has also been given some upgrades with the likes of ventilated front seats, combination of leathers and coloured stitching to name a few. I spent a week with the Kiger Turbo and here are my thoughts.

 DESIGN

The Renault Kiger has always been one of the more distinctive compact SUVs in the South African market, and the 2026 Turbo model continues to build on that formula. While the overall shape remains familiar, the Kiger still manages to stand out with its bold front-end styling, muscular wheel arches and raised ride height that gives it genuine SUV appeal. The front grille and lighting signature give the vehicle a modern appearance, while the sporty stance adds a touch of character that many rivals in this segment often lack. Inside, Renault has made noticeable improvements to the cabin. One of the biggest highlights is the upgraded interior quality. The materials used throughout the cabin feel more premium than before, helping the Kiger move a step closer to more expensive competitors. The different textures used on the seats add a welcome sense of sophistication and break away from the plain finishes commonly found in this segment. The result is a cabin that feels more inviting and modern, while still maintaining the practicality that buyers in this class expect.

PERFORMANCE

The biggest improvement to the 2026 Renault Kiger comes from its turbocharged engine. Compared to the naturally aspirated alternative, the turbo unit delivers noticeably better performance, making the vehicle feel far more responsive in everyday driving conditions. Whether pulling away from traffic lights, overtaking on the highway or climbing inclines, the extra power and torque provide a more confident driving experience. The turbocharged engine feels well suited to South African driving conditions, particularly for motorists who frequently travel on open roads where overtaking performance is important. Despite the improved performance, the engine remains relatively efficient, striking a good balance between fuel economy and power. The Kiger may not be the quickest vehicle in the segment, but it offers enough punch to make daily driving enjoyable without sacrificing affordability.

COMFORT

Comfort has also seen meaningful improvements. The upgraded seat materials not only enhance the overall look of the cabin but also contribute to a more pleasant driving experience. The seats provide adequate support for both short city commutes and longer journeys, while the elevated seating position gives drivers excellent visibility of the road ahead. Technology is another area where the Kiger impresses. The addition of wireless smartphone connectivity is a feature that many South African buyers will appreciate. Being able to connect a smartphone without cables adds convenience to everyday use and helps keep the cabin free from clutter. The infotainment system is intuitive to operate, while the spacious cabin and practical luggage area ensure that the Kiger remains a strong family-friendly option. Road and wind noise are reasonably controlled for a vehicle in this price category, and the suspension does a commendable job of absorbing imperfections commonly found on South African roads. This results in a comfortable and relaxed driving experience for both driver and passengers.

VERDICT

The 2026 Renault Kiger Turbo represents a meaningful step forward for Renault's compact SUV. The improved turbocharged engine brings a welcome boost in performance, the upgraded interior materials create a more premium feel, and the addition of wireless phone connectivity adds a level of convenience that modern buyers expect. For South African consumers looking for an affordable compact SUV that offers attractive styling, practical space, improved refinement and enjoyable performance, the Kiger Turbo makes a compelling case for itself. While competition in this segment remains fierce, Renault has addressed some of the key areas that needed improvement, resulting in a vehicle that feels more complete than ever before. Overall, the 2026 Renault Kiger Turbo is a well-rounded package that combines value, practicality and modern features, making it one of the more appealing options for buyers seeking a compact SUV without stretching their budget.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.0-liter Turbo
Gear Box	X-tronic CVT
Power	74kW
Torque	160Nm
Fuel Economy	6.0L per 100km
Price	R329,999

Bucket Seat: Renault Captur Esprit Alpine

When Renault first launched the Captur, it was dubbed "the Clio on stilts" which in essence what the car really is, a crossover variant of the much loved hatch-back. The trend continued with face-lifts and newer models but when Renault launched the latest version of the Captur last year, there was a clear difference with this new one, it was here to create it's own identity. Bearing the Esprit Alpine name badge the car already feels special and with the re-designed front end, it looks the part too. I got to spend a week with the car and here are my thoughts on it. 

DESIGN

There’s something about the Renault Esprit Alpine that just hits differently, and a lot of that comes down to how it looks. This isn’t your typical safe, slightly bland compact SUV it’s genuinely sexy. The sharp LED lighting, sculpted body lines and coupe-SUV stance give it a presence that feels far more premium than you’d expect at this level. In Alpine trim, the detailing adds just enough sportiness without overdoing it, and it’s the kind of car you find yourself looking back at after parking. Not because you have to, but because you want to. The front end is futuristic and classy, with details that just add a different dynamic to any other Renault on the market. The details don't just stop there, it extends to the large 19-inch alloy wheels which are finished off in black, and while the rear remains mostly the same as the previous model, the details on the LED lighting make it look different. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet, the 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine might not sound like much on paper, but out on the road, it tells a different story. It’s got a gutsy, eager nature that suits everyday driving perfectly. Around town, it feels responsive and lively, with enough low-down torque to make stop-start traffic and quick gaps feel effortless. It’s not trying to be a performance SUV, and it doesn’t need to be  it delivers exactly what most South African drivers are looking for: usable, accessible power without feeling strained. Push it harder and it does start to lose a bit of breath at the top end, but in real-world conditions, it rarely feels lacking. The 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox complements the engine well and, for the most part, delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. In normal driving conditions, shifts are quick and almost unnoticeable, giving the car a polished feel that you really appreciate on a daily basis. There is the occasional hesitation when you demand sudden acceleration, especially during overtakes, but once you get familiar with its behaviour, it becomes easy to manage. For the majority of driving scenarios, it remains silky and fuss-free.

COMFORT

Comfort in the Esprit Alpine strikes a nice balance. The ride is slightly on the firmer side, likely due to the larger wheels and sportier setup, but it never crosses the line into being uncomfortable. Instead, it gives the car a more planted and confident feel, especially at higher speeds. Long-distance driving is easy and relaxed, with supportive seats that keep fatigue at bay. On rougher South African roads, you will feel some of the imperfections coming through, but it’s a compromise that makes sense considering the car’s styling and overall character. Step inside, and this is where the Renault really starts to impress. The interior layout is clean, modern and thoughtfully put together, with a strong focus on the driver. The Alpine touches elevate the space, adding a sporty yet premium feel without being over the top. Materials and finishes are generally well chosen, and everything feels intuitive to use. It’s a cabin that doesn’t just look good  it feels like a place you’d genuinely enjoy spending time in, whether it’s a short commute or a longer journey. Despite its sporty, sloping roofline, the Esprit Alpine manages to offer impressive space inside. Rear passengers have enough room to sit comfortably without feeling cramped, which is often where coupe-style SUVs fall short. The boot is also practical enough for everyday use, handling everything from grocery runs to weekend getaways with ease. It’s a car that manages to balance style with real-world usability, which is exactly what many buyers are after. In terms of technology, the Esprit Alpine comes well-equipped with all the essentials you’d expect. The infotainment system supports smartphone connectivity, there’s a digital driver display, and multiple driving modes add a bit of versatility to the driving experience. Safety-wise, you’re covered with the basics like stability control and traction control, although some of the more advanced driver assistance systems are either limited or optional depending on the spec. That said, it still feels modern and functional enough for most buyers.

VERDICT

The Renault Esprit Alpine doesn’t try to be everything, and that’s exactly why it works so well. It delivers a combination of standout design, solid everyday performance, comfort and a genuinely premium-feeling interior, all in a package that feels a bit more special than the average compact SUV. For South African consumers who want something stylish yet practical, and refined without being overly expensive, it hits a very sweet spot. It’s not perfect the gearbox can hesitate at times, the ride is slightly firm, and it could do with more advanced safety tech but overall, it’s a compelling and well-rounded offering that proves you don’t have to sacrifice personality for practicality.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.3L Turbo Petrol
Gear Box	7-Speed EDC
Power	113kW
Torque	270Nm
0-100km/h	9.6 Seconds
Price	R614,999

Bucket Seat: Renault Kiger

Renault has refresh the looks on their Kiger and was launched late last year, like the Triber, the differences are just cosmetic with the underpinnings and power plant remaining the same as the previous model. The Crossover Coupe styling has always been a favourite of mine, with it sharing the same platform as the Nissan Magnite, I found that the Renault version just looked better on the road. The design changes of the new model give the Kiger a more streamline and mature. The interior remains virtually the same and unfortunately so does the build quality. Here are my thoughts on it after spending a week with the Kiger. 

DESIGN

The updated Renault Kiger doesn’t reinvent itself, but it certainly refines what was already a distinctive design. Compared to the outgoing model, the front end feels more assertive, with a revised grille and updated Renault badging that give it a cleaner, more modern identity. The LED lighting signature looks sharper and more premium than before, while subtle bumper revisions add visual width. It still carries that high-riding, compact SUV stance that South Africans love, but now it does so with a bit more polish. Down the sides, the familiar sculpted body lines remain, yet new wheel designs help freshen up the look. The rear styling benefits from cleaner detailing, and overall the Kiger now feels less like a budget-focused crossover and more like a properly resolved compact SUV. It still turns heads for its coupe-inspired roofline and contrasting roof options, but the facelift gives it just enough visual maturity to stay competitive in a very crowded segment.

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet, the Kiger manual continues with the naturally aspirated 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. On paper, outputs remain modest, and that translates directly into the driving experience. Around town, however, the engine feels perfectly adequate. It’s light on fuel, easy to manage, and well suited to daily commuting. The throttle response is predictable, and in urban conditions the Kiger feels nimble and unintimidating. Once you venture onto the highway, though, you become more aware of its limitations. Overtaking requires planning, and you’ll need to work through the gears to extract the most from the small engine. It’s not slow in a dangerous way, but it’s certainly not eager. This is a vehicle designed for efficiency and affordability rather than performance. The five-speed manual gearbox complements the engine’s character. The clutch is light enough for daily traffic, and the shift action is straightforward and easy to get used to. It isn’t particularly slick or sporty, and at times the shift feel can be slightly notchy, but for the target market it does the job without fuss. For buyers who still prefer the engagement and control of a manual transmission, especially at this price point, it remains a sensible and cost-effective choice.

COMFORT

Step inside and you’ll immediately notice that Renault has worked to make the cabin feel more refined than before. The updated trim finishes and dual-tone interior give it a fresher, more upmarket ambience. While hard plastics are still present, as expected in this segment, the overall layout feels neat and modern rather than cheap. Seat comfort is commendable for a vehicle in this class. The front seats offer decent support for longer journeys, and the elevated seating position gives you that SUV-like sense of command over the road. Rear passengers benefit from surprisingly good space, especially considering the Kiger’s compact footprint. For young families or small households, it strikes a practical balance between size and comfort. Noise insulation also feels improved compared to earlier versions. Engine noise is noticeable under hard acceleration, which is typical of a three-cylinder motor, but at cruising speeds the cabin remains reasonably composed. The infotainment system, centred around an 8-inch touchscreen on higher trims, adds a layer of modern connectivity with smartphone integration, making the Kiger feel current and competitive in daily use. One of the Kiger’s strongest attributes has always been practicality, and that continues with this updated model. The boot space is genuinely impressive for the segment, offering around 405 litres of luggage capacity. That figure places it among the leaders in the compact SUV category in South Africa. Whether it’s weekly groceries, school bags, or weekend luggage, the Kiger handles it with ease. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo capacity further, making it surprisingly versatile for road trips or larger loads. Cabin storage is also well thought out, with multiple compartments and cup holders adding everyday convenience. For buyers who need maximum practicality in a compact footprint, the Kiger delivers far more space than its exterior dimensions suggest.

VERDICT

In the context of the South African market, where affordability, fuel efficiency and practicality remain key decision factors, the Renault Kiger manual makes a compelling case for itself. It doesn’t pretend to be sporty or premium, but it offers honest value. The design updates keep it looking fresh, the interior improvements enhance daily comfort, and the generous boot space makes it especially appealing for families. The naturally aspirated engine paired with the manual gearbox is best suited to urban and suburban life rather than high-speed highway driving. Buyers who prioritise spirited performance may find it lacking, but those looking for a reliable, economical and well-packaged compact SUV will appreciate what it offers. Ultimately, the Renault Kiger manual remains one of the most sensible and practical entry points into the compact SUV segment in South Africa. It’s not about excitement — it’s about smart ownership, everyday usability and strong value for money.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1L N/A 3 cylinder
Gear Box	5-Speed Manual
Power	53kW
Torque	96Nm
Average Fuel Consumption	6.5L per 100km (as tested)
Price	R329,329

Bucket Seat: Renault Triber

Believe it or not, the Renault Triber is one of the most popular cars in Umhlanga Durban, yes, the home of the wealthy and astute, where Supercars prowl the streets, has them competing with this French MPV, (Well its actually Indian since its made in the subcontinent). The Triber is a clever, no-nonsense people-mover that takes clever packaging over outright power which makes it the ideal vehicle for e-hailing services like Uber and Bolt. If you need seven seats sometimes, a tiny running cost, and big flexibility in a small footprint, this is worth a long look. 

DESIGN

Out on the street the Triber doesn’t scream “seven seater” it’s compact, friendly and practical. Renault’s latest refresh sharpens the face: cleaner grille, tighter lamp graphics and slightly more modern bumpers so it looks less toy-car and more grown up than older budget MPVs. The proportions still betray its mission: short nose, tall cabin, upright greenhouse that equals usable interior space more than wow factor. What I like: the design language keeps things honest. The wheels and treatment on higher trims lift the presence enough; clever touches like a wide, low boot opening and practical door apertures make every-day life easier. It’s not premium, but it’s intentional built to be useful. 

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet is the familiar 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol around 52–53 kW and 96 Nm paired to a 5-speed manual . That combination is tuned for economy and city drivability rather than outright shove. In town it’s perfectly acceptable: light steering, easy overtakes in single-lane urban traffic, and the engine will happily chug along at low revs to save fuel. On the highway, and especially loaded with six or seven aboard, the Triber feels its size and power limits. Expect shallow acceleration when fully laden and be mindful of overtakes on undulating routes  you’ll need to plan them. While the automatic Triber may seem more appealing to some, one has to take into considering the lag of the AMT box, so if you do a lot of long motorway trips the manual will be more composed and predictable. Fuel figures are strong for the segment. Renault quotes low consumption and local dealers report efficient real-world results. 

COMFORT

This is where the Triber does its biggest job: interior space and flexibility. The third row is removable and second-row seats can slide and fold to create a wide variety of configurations  cargo hauler, five-seater with large boot or full seven-seater. Boot volume can be impressive (up to around 625 litres with clever seat arrangements) which is huge for the footprint. Headroom and knee room are generous for the segment; the cabin layout has lots of small storage nooks  so family life is easy. 

Ride quality is tuned for comfort on city roads it soaks up bumps reasonably well and the raised ride height helps on speed humps and rough suburban surfaces. NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) is not luxury-calibre: the cabin gets noisier at higher speeds and with a full load, but for urban and school-run duties it’s fine. Higher trims add niceties like a bigger touchscreen, better connectivity and rear vents  useful day-to-day. 

Renault has been upgrading safety on the Triber recent local introductions have standardised multiple airbags and added kit compared with earlier budget spec levels. For South African arrivals this year Renault pushed better standard safety across the range (reports note 6 airbags as part of recent updates). Still, the Triber is a budget MPV: it’s practical and sensible, but it won’t match the passive and active safety levels of larger, more expensive family SUVs. If you prioritise crash-avoidance tech, check the spec sheet carefully for the trim you want. 

VERDICT

This is the Triber’s sweet spot. Purchase price sits in the budget family car bracket, running costs are low thanks to the small engine and good economy, and servicing/parts are straightforward (and cheap compared to larger Renaults). Insurance and tyres are also more affordable than most bigger family cars. If your budget is tight but the need for occasional seven-seat flexibility is real, the Triber makes a strong economic case. 

Buy this if: you need occasional seven-seat flexibility in a compact city footprint, want low running costs, and you value modular practicality over motorway performance. It’s a brilliant school-run / inner city family tool with enough boot space to carry luggage or a month’s grocery run when you fold seats.

Don’t buy this if: you regularly carry seven adults on long highway journeys, you crave high-speed refinement, or you want a premium interior and sporty performance. In that case step up to a larger MPV or compact SUV.

Practical tip for SA buyers: Renault has launched the refreshed Triber locally (arriving in late 2025 and already showing on dealer sites), with improved standard safety and slightly reworked pricing/trim lines so check local stock and spec levels, and compare AMT vs manual depending on your mix of city/highway use.

SPECIFICATION

Engine	1.0L NA Petrol
Gear Box	5-speed Manual
Torque	96Nm
Power	53kW
Average Fuel Consumption	5.5L per 100km
Price	R349,149

Bucket Seat: New Renault Triber Launch

Yesterday saw the local launch of the second generation Renault Triber in South Africa, the versatile 7-seater MPV has been a popular car in the market since its introduction with KZN being one of the key markets for the car in terms of sales, with this in mind, the team from Motus Renault decided to host the launch in Durban, and I was invited to see what the latest derivative has to offer. 

With a full house of Renault SA execs in attendance, it was nice to chat to them and engage on what they've been doing in the background as nothing new had come out from them for about 2 years. Their hiatus was broken this year with the launch of the new Duster, another popular model for the local market, the Triber being the second model launch for the year with them planning one more before year end. 

So whats new with the Triber? Well its an all new design which has design enhancements echoes Renault's new branch identity, starting off with the new Logo that sits prominently on the piano black grille that is complimented by a sculpted bonnet and redesigned bumpers, both front and rear. In total the range topping Iconic model in the new Triber has 31 new advancements from the old model, loads of them being tech-centric. Some of my favourites include LED auto head lights with integrated Daytime running lamps as well as LED tail lamps, front and rear PDC's, a reverse camera, cooled glove box and center storage box. 

The Triber has a new 8" touch screen infotainment unit that has built-in mobile applications, with the range topping Iconic model have wireless phone projection. The Triber still has the same 1.0: naturally aspirated engine form the old model and is available in a 5-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic on top spec models. 

Versatility is the name of the game for the Triber with the car being able to configure itself to your needs, rethink space is the catch phrase for the Triber and it demonstrates this well , the third row seating can fit 2 adults in with a squeeze and the second row can be adjustable to give the third row more space. There are rear vents with adjustable fan speed. The third row of seats can be removed completely to give you a loading capacity of 625L. 

This new generation Triber is bound to be as popular as the outgoing model, available in three variants "Evolution, Techno and Iconic", it has something to suit everyones needs. 

Recommended Retail Pricing for the cars are as follows:

New Renault Triber Evolution MT :   R 218 999

New Renault Triber Techno MT : R 233 999

New Renault Triber Iconic MT :  R 249 999

New Renault Triber Iconic AMT : R 259 999

New Renault Triber Express (excl. Roof Rack) : R 249 999 

Bucket Seat: Renault Duster

The Renault Duster has been a market disrupter in the segment since its launch back in the early 2000’s, the French brand was coming into the segment still wet behind the ears but what they managed to achieve in the Duster was something remarkable, a robust off-road vehicle that was a decent size but being a fraction of the cost of anything that was remotely close to it’s competition. Yes there were the likes of the Suzuki Jimny which was the leader in the market for an affordable 4x4 but now some competition in the form of the Duster came into the play but you can’t really call it competition as the two still remain very vast in their offerings. 

DESIGN

The new Duster presents a much bolder and muscular exterior compared to its predecessor. Its design is defined by a prominent grille bearing the new Renault script, signature Y‑shaped LED daytime running lights, sculpted bonnet lines, flared wheel arches, and flush-mounted rear door handles, giving it a rugged yet refined silhouette. Built on the CMF‑B platform (shared with the Captur and Nissan Juke), it is slightly larger — about 11 mm wider and 2 mm longer. The 4×4 variant has an extra 7 mm of ground clearance, reaching 217 mm overall, paired with revised bumpers to enhance its approach/departure angles Eco-conscious touches include 20% recycled plastic cladding (with shimmering specs), modular roof rails (up to 70 kg capacity), and robust skid plates — all reinforcing its rugged appeal 

PERFORMANCE

Renault has phased out diesel entirely. The line-up includes a 1.3 L turbo petrol engine (113 kW / 250 Nm) paired with a 7‑speed EDC automatic for the 4×2 models, and a 1.2 L turbo mild‑hybrid (96 kW / 230 Nm) with a 48‑V system and a 6‑speed manual exclusive to the 4×4 Zen trim Fuel consumption is efficient: around 6.5 L/100 km for the 1.3 L petrol, with the mild‑hybrid variant dipping even lower (~5.7 L/100 km WLTP) The mild-hybrid powertrain delivers smooth, torque-laden acceleration at low revs, making it adept at everyday urban and lighter off-road duties. The turbo petrol also excels in delivering strong mid-range punch and refinement.On gravel and dirt: The 4×4 variant stands out, with 217 mm clearance, five terrain modes (Auto, Eco, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road), and hill-descent control. It remains agile and planted across rough surfaces — though performance in deep sand is more modest due to limited torque and lack of a low-range gearbox. Transmission: The 7-speed automatic in the 1.3 TCe models shifts smoothly and keeps engine noise in check. The mild hybrid’s 6-speed manual is refined enough for general driving, though shifts may feel slightly notchy in tight urban traffic.

 COMFORT

The cabin takes a minimalist and ergonomic approach: driver-centric centre console, a standard 10.1‑inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a 7‑inch digital instrument cluster. Practical features: YouClip attachment points, rear 60/40 split fold seats, generous 472–494 L boot, and multiple USB‑C ports (front and rear). Higher trims add 360° camera, cruise control, and keyless entry. While the materials are robust and easy to clean — ideal for active lifestyles — plastics feel utilitarian, and some creaks/rattles have been noted at times. Cabin comfort is decent: supportive manually adjustable seats, good visibility, and space for four adults with sufficient rear legroom. Ride quality is smooth and composed — suspension absorbs potholes and gravel like a champ. Steering is light, perfect for urban manoeuvres, though feedback is limited.

 VERDICT

The 2025 Renault Duster strikes a compelling balance between rugged capability and urban practicality. Its refreshed styling and off‑road readiness make it a standout choice for adventurers, while efficient petrol and mild‑hybrid engines ensure it's suitable for daily commutes. Though the interior materials and gearbox feel at times utilitarian, the strong feature set, spaciousness, and value pricing make it a smart buy — especially for markets like South Africa where diverse road conditions demand versatility. If you’re after an SUV with real off-road chops that doesn’t compromise on tech or practicality, the new Duster is worth a serious look.

SPECIFICATION

Engine	1.3L Turbo
Gear Box	7-Speed EDC
Torque	250Nm
Power	113kW
Fuel Economy	6.5L per 100km
Price	R539,529

Bucket Seat: Citroen C3 Aircross - 7 Seater

When it comes to French cars that are made in India, lets just say that I am not the biggest fan of them. So when the Citroën C3 Aircross 7-seater rolled into my driveway for testing, I didn't have much hope for it. While from the outside it looks fantastic, sitting inside the car gave me flash backs of the cheap and nasty materials, lack of insulation and general irks that I found with other cars that come from the sub continent. It’s positioned as a compact SUV designed to accommodate larger families, with a focus on maximizing space in a relatively small footprint and it probably works well in India as the people are generally smaller built than as South Africans. I on the other hand was not going to load it up with 7 people and drive around town but I had some interesting routes planned for the C3 which involved all types of terrain and all sorts of climates and I must say, this car surprised me a lot. In fact, it changed my view on French cars made in India, suffice to say humble pie was had. Here are my thoughts on the C3 Aircross:

DESIGN

The Citroën C3 Aircross features a distinctive design, with a bold front grille, large headlights, and unique Airbump panels that give it a rugged yet quirky appearance. It has an elevated stance and muscular wheel arches, contributing to its SUV-like appearance. The C3 Aircross has roof rails that add to its practicality, offering additional storage options. Having drive the launch model 5-seater, the 7-seater version extends the rear of the vehicle to accommodate the extra seats, and the vehicle looks more extended than the standard C3 Aircross. It maintains the brand's modern yet playful approach to design, with contrasting roof colors and options for custom color packs. The large 17-inch diamond cut 4-spoke alloy wheels give it distinct look and adds to the charm of the overall design. I must say, the C3 Aircross is a looker and at first glance doesn't give you a budget look at all but a rather very Euro-Premium feel.

PERFORMANCE

I was quite surprised that the same 1.2-liter PureTech petrol engine which is in the standard C3  remained frugal to my demands, paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox the engine produces 81kW, which is sufficient for city driving and moderate highway speeds, but it may feel slightly underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded but like I said, I never had to carry a load so the engine was more than capable for what I had drive. The gearbox is smooth for the most part, though it may hesitate at times, especially during quick overtakes or sharp accelerations. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing most bumps and road imperfections easily, which is one of Citroën's strong suits, the call it the "magic carpet feel" which I must admit, did its part when navigating soft beach sand and cushioned most of the harsh bumps on the gravel surfances. The driving experience is relaxed, and it's a good vehicle for families prioritizing comfort over sharp handling. However, because of its taller design, body roll is noticeable during cornering, and it doesn't feel as sporty or agile as some rivals in its class. The 1.2-liter engine, when mated to the automatic transmission, offers fuel consumption of around 6.0-7.0 liters per 100 km. These figures are typical for a vehicle in this class, but they may increase if the car is heavily loaded with passengers and luggage.

COMFORT

The interior is designed with a focus on comfort and modularity. The second row seats slide and recline, allowing flexible use of space for passengers or cargo. While the third row adds seating for up to seven, it's important to note that the rear-most seats are best suited for children or shorter trips, as legroom can be limited for adults. With all seven seats in use, the boot space is relatively small, around 165 liters. However, when the third row is folded down, the capacity increases significantly to around 520 liters, making it ideal for luggage on family trips. The Citroën C3 Aircross comes equipped with a range of tech features aimed at making the driving experience more convenient and enjoyable, most notable is the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy smartphone integration. The graphics are clear, though the system can sometimes lag in response, also I did find it often disconnected from the wireless connection while driving quite  a few times. The car has a multi-function steering wheel with buttons for car info on the instrument cluster and to control media, but these were also buggy with the volume buttons sometimes ending controlling the skip function and then only making the volume lower not increasing no matter which button you pressed. The car came with standard manual aircon controls and no climate control but it did offer a sperate duct for the rear passengers which I thought was cool. The C3 Aircross has a ground clearance of 200mm which is good in its class and managed a host of terrains with is, included soft beach sand even though its not a 4-wheel drive car!

VERDICT

The Citroën C3 Aircross 7-seater automatic is ideal for families prioritizing comfort, flexibility, and a distinctive design. It offers a soft, easygoing ride, with good fuel efficiency and plenty of tech for the price. However, if you need to frequently transport seven adults or want a more dynamic driving experience, you might want to explore alternatives, as the third row is more suitable for occasional use, and the engine may feel underpowered with a full load. The C3 Aircross 7-seater typically offers good value for money, with its base models priced competitively compared to other SUVs in the segment. Prices can increase with additional features, trims, and technology packs, but even higher-spec models tend to be more affordable than some of its rivals. This makes it a solid option for families looking for a budget-friendly, comfortable SUV with seating flexibility. I spent a solid 9-hours driving it for an entire day and normally one would be quite fatigued from all the driving but the C3 managed to keep me comfortable through the experience, even while navigating some harsh terrain and for that, I must say kudos to it. 

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.2L Turbo Petro
Gear Box	6-Speed Automatic
Torque	205Nm
Power	81kW
Fuel Consumption	6.3L per 100km
Price	R354,900