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The South African
02-07-2025
- Automotive
- The South African
Surprise from the Subcontinent: 2025 Citroen C3 1.2T Max review
From the outside, the 2025 Citroen C3 1.2T Max may appear to walk a well-worn path. Take an affordable hatchback platform, jack it up a few inches, slap on some bigger wheels and plastic cladding, and call it a day. And true to form, the Citroen C3 1.2T Max does all those things. However, there happens to be something rather endearing about how this little car carries itself down a road. Having spent some time with the French-designed, Indian-built Citroen C3 1.2T Max Auto, I'm reminded of one compact crossover I held in particularly high regard – the Sandero Stepway. Both cars don't pretend to be something they're not. And yet, they deliver a lot more mechanically than most buyers might expect. It doesn't major in French craziness. But maybe that's a good thing in this day and age. Image: Ray Leathern Unsurprisingly, the new C3's origins tell an interesting story of automotive economics. Built in India for global markets, this approach allows the Stellantis Group to offer European engineering at a competitive price. At R302 900 for the turbocharged Max automatic you see here, subcontinental savings from lower production costs are passed directly to the consumer. Furthermore, at just over four-metres long and 1.75m wide, the Citroen C3 1.2T Max occupies a certain sweet spot between supermini and compact SUV. Granted, the styling is deliberately ordinary. But there's a pragmatism to its proportions that you soon begin to appreciate. Plus, the roof rails, dual-tone paintwork on the Max, and protective wheelarch cladding provide sufficient SUV flavour. Citroen changed its brand identity and logo back in 2022. This marked the start of more pragmatic, cost-effective cars from the French firm. Image: Citroen Better still, it's beneath the skin that the Citroen C3 1.2T Max Auto outshines the competition. Just look at the data, its turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine produces a healthy 81 kW and 205 Nm of torque. The drivetrain was plucked from the brilliant C4 Cactus and it deserves particular praise. In an era where most manufacturers saddle their entry-level models with jerky four-speed automatics or uninspiring CVTs, Citroen has fitted a proper six-speed automatic gearbox. This transforms the daily driving experience, with smooth, predictable gearshifts that never leave you hunting for the right gear. Moreover, the French three pot exhibits a characteristic thrum that's actually quite appealing. 205 Nm of torque available from low revs makes urban driving effortless. And zero to 100 km/h figures around the sub-10-second mark is pretty impressive for this class of vehicle. Furthermore, real-world fuel economy hovers around the 7.4 l/100 km mark when faced with spirited driving. Even though that is a bit thirstier than the 6.3 l/100 km claimed. Most buyers want a standalone touchscreen and pleasant amenities. Boxes ticked for the C3 Max. Image: Ray Leathern Inside, the 2025 Citroen C3 1.2T Max delivers a surprisingly well-equipped cabin. The infotainment system, while not the most sophisticated, still includes all the connectivity features modern buyers expect. Screen graphics and reverse camera definition are on the basic side, as is the appearance of the digital driving display. However, everything works perfectly well and falls to hand effortlessly, which is not to be underestimated these days. Space utilisation inside the Citroen C3 1.2T Max is impressive for a car with such a compact footprint. The rear bench seat accommodates two adults without complaint, while the boot offers sufficient capacity for weekly shopping. Better still, because the interior materials won't win any luxury awards, you don't feel bad lowering the rear row and throwing in a couple of surfboards, for example. Inched-up alloy wheels, plastic body cladding and the contrasting roof indicate this is the C3 Max. Image: Ray Leathern Ultimately, what surprised me most about the 2025 Citroen C3 1.2T Max Auto is its fundamental honesty. This isn't a car trying to convince you of anything. Instead, it's a genuinely competent compact crossover that delivers efficient mobility at a fair price. Granted, it might be down on some of that quirky French charm that defined Citroens of old, but there is engineering integrity here. As mentioned, the parallels with the Sandero Stepway are unmistakable. And praise for an affordable family ferry doesn't come much higher than that. Both recognise buyers who prioritise practicality and value over flashy, insincere features. There's an elevated driving position and decent interior space because that's what the market demands nowadays. However, most significantly, it's the Citroen C3 1.2T Max Auto's drivetrain that's genuinely impressive for the money. 2025 Citroen C3 1.2T Max Auto Engine: 1.2-litre, turbo petrol 3-cylinder 1.2-litre, turbo petrol 3-cylinder Power: 81 kW @ 5 500 rpm, 205 Nm @ 1 750 rpm 81 kW @ 5 500 rpm, 205 Nm @ 1 750 rpm Performance: 0-100 km/h 9.5 sec (estimated) 0-100 km/h 9.5 sec (estimated) Economy: 6.3 l/100 km (claimed) / 7.4 l/100 km (tested) 6.3 l/100 km (claimed) / 7.4 l/100 km (tested) Transmission: 6-speed auto 6-speed auto Price: R302 900 Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Hindustan Times
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
New-gen Jeep Compass officially breaks cover, new tech, electric powertrain & more
The new-gen Jeep Compass is based on the STLA Medium architecture shared with the new Citroen C5 Aircross, allowing to get electric and PHEV powertrain options Jeep has taken the wraps off the new-generation Compass SUV, revealing the SUV in all its glory. The third-generation offering not only packs a more rugged and upmarket look but has also grown in terms of proportions, tech, and powertrain options. The new Jeep Compass will now be available with plug-in hybrid and electric alternatives, in addition to the petrol and diesel engine options. New-gen Jeep Compass: New Platform, Evolutionary Styling The new-gen Jeep Compass is based on the Stellantis Group's STLA Medium architecture, optimised to support multiple powertrains on the same platform. Visually, the new Compass looks evolutionary, borrowing cues from the smaller Avenger and larger Grand Cherokee in Jeep's stable. The model gets the iconic seven-slot grille with a front that's more upright. There are also trapezoidal wheel arches and rugged cladding, while the bumpers are said to be reinforced with the radar systems repositioned to avoid damage in tight spaces or when tackling obstacles. Also Read : Jeep Compass Sandstorm Edition: Here's what makes it special The new Jeep Compass has grown in proportions and provides 55 mm of additional legroom, 34 litres of interior storage space, and 45 litres of additional boot capacity New-gen Jeep Compass: Off-Road Capability The 2026 Jeep Compass is also more off-road-ready, according to the company. The European version has a ground clearance of 200 mm, an approach angle of 20 degrees, a breakover angle of 15 degrees, and a departure angle of 26 degrees. The water wading depth measures 470 mm. The model also comes equipped with Select-terrain, which adapts the suspension according to the terrain. Jeep has made upgrades to the suspension setup with new springs, dampers, and an anti-roll bar, promising a good balance between handling and comfort. The model will be available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions. The AWD versions will have even better off-road credibility with more functional bumpers that allow 27 degrees of approach angle, 16 degrees of breakover, 31 degrees of departure angle, and improved ground clearance and water wading. The model will also come equipped with Hill Descent Control as standard on the AWD trims. The Jeep Compass electric promises a range of up to 650 km on a single charge, while the electric versions will make between 210 bhp and 370 bhp, depending on the variant New-gen Jeep Compass: More Space Furthermore, the new Jeep Compass is more spacious thanks to its new architecture. Jeep says the SUV now provides 55 mm of additional legroom, 34 litres of front interior storage space, and 45 litres of additional boot capacity, up to 550 litres. The cabin continues to be a five-seater with a 40:20:40 split for the second row. The dashboard sports a new layout on the 2026 Jeep Compass with a new 10-inch digital instrument console and a 16-inch infotainment screen equipped with over-the-air (OTA) updates. There's also Level 2 ADAS that brings a suite of electronic aids, a head-up display, semi-automatic lane change, Matrix LED lighting, and mobile phone access. The new Compass gets a completely revamped interior with a 10-inch digital console and a 16-inch infotainment screen with OTA updates New-gen Jeep Compass: New Powertrain Powering the new-gen Jeep Compass will be the option of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and three electric versions. The PHEV model produces 192 bhp, while there's also a mild-hybrid version with the 48-volt architecture that develops 143 bhp. The Compass Electric is available with the 210 bhp front-wheel drive version on the base variant, while the top-spec model makes 370 bhp with all-wheel drive. The latter gets a dual motor setup, one on each axle, with the rear motor churning out an additional 66 bhp and 323 Nm of peak torque. The Compass Electric promises a range of up to 650 km on a single charge and gets a fast charging time with 20-80 per cent chargeable in 30 minutes using a 160 kW DC charger. The e-Compass also gets an active grill shutter integrated into the front bumper, air ducts on the front and rear wheels, sharp rear edges, and a flat underbody design, all of which are aimed at optimising aerodynamic efficiency. The third-gen Jeep Compass will be produced at the brand's plant in Italy for European markets. Its arrival in India is yet to be confirmed Will the new-gen Jeep Compass come to India? The new Jeep Compass will continue to be produced at Stellantis' Melfi plant in Italy for the European markets. Notably, India is the global production hub for the current generation Compass in the right-hand drive guise. That being said, the automaker has not confirmed if the model will arrive in India in the new generation avatar, but it will be making its way to multiple markets globally in a phased manner. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 06 May 2025, 12:54 PM IST
Yahoo
21-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Leasys UK expands EV rental fleet with Leapmotor models
Leasys UK, a multi-brand operational leasing company, has expanded its electric vehicle (EV) rental fleet with the addition of new models from Leapmotor, part of the Stellantis Group. The introduction of the T03 and C10 models by Leasys UK offers customers an expanded range of long-term rental options for EVs. The Leapmotor T03 is a compact urban EV with a range of up to 165 miles. It comes with all features as standard and is available from £236 ($305) per month on Business Contract Hire, with an initial rental of £1,416. The C10, a larger model, offers a range of up to 261 miles and advanced safety features, with pricing starting at £317 per month and an initial rental of £1,902. Leasys UK said the expansion aligns with its goal of reaching a fleet of one million vehicles by 2026. Leasys UK managing director Shane Coomber said: 'As we work to increase the appeal of electric vehicles, this new product range further enhances our EV customer offering and experience, as we look to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles.' Leasys is a joint venture between Stellantis and Crédit Agricole Personal Finance & Mobility. The company offers mobility solutions, which range from medium and long-term rentals to management systems for company fleets. "Leasys UK expands EV rental fleet with Leapmotor models" was originally created and published by Motor Finance Online, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
South China Morning Post
25-02-2025
- Automotive
- South China Morning Post
Leading carmaker reveals hands-free driving mode to let drivers do emails or other tasks
Major carmaker the Stellantis Group has revealed that it is developing its first in-house automated driving technology – STLA AutoDrive. Advertisement The system will allow a vehicle to be driven autonomously at speeds of up to 60 km/h (37 mph) in urban areas and 95 km/h on motorways. STLA AutoDrive enables the driver to temporarily take their hands off the steering wheel, allowing them to watch a movie, catch up on emails or look out of the window. The driver will be able to activate the system via a physical button, then the vehicle will maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front, adjust its speed, and manage its steering and braking based on traffic flow. Ned Curic, Stellantis chief engineering and technology, said: 'Helping drivers make the best use of their time is priority. By handling routine driving tasks, STLA AutoDrive will enhance the driving experience, making time behind the wheel more efficient and enjoyable.'
The Independent
31-01-2025
- Automotive
- The Independent
EV battery prices to drop by over £4,000 from 2027, predicts Fiat CEO
The price of electric cars will drop as the cost of batteries falls in the coming years, says Fiat and DS CEO Olivier Francois. The Fiat chief also believes governments could do more with incentives until then to boost the take up of EVs. Francois, who is also Chief Marketing Officer of the wider Stellantis Group, reckons we'll see a step change in battery prices as soon as 2027 with some batteries going down in price by as much as €5,000 (£4,185). Speaking to The Independent at the launch of the new Fiat Grande Panda – which at £20,975 is one of the UK's cheapest electric cars – Francois said 'at some point we will have better costs on the batteries. It's supposed to come down drastically in 2027. It's not just for us, it's technology that is coming and that will help.' 'What is a pity is that the government incentives should have created a bridge until then. Now we have a bump – there are no government incentives and still the request to sell a lot of EVs because of CO2 targets.' When pushed on how much cheaper batteries are likely to become in a few years' time, Francois said, 'If I had to guess, and it's my educated guess, it would probably be €5,000. And they will probably go down [in steps] rather than a curve. We want the steps to be as big as possible.' Francois was speaking as the new version of the iconic 80s Panda, the Grande Panda, was being launched at Fiat's base in Turin. The Grande Panda will go on sale in April with first deliveries in June and will be available as a mild hybrid petrol car as well as an EV. The electric Grande Panda at £20,975 undercuts the new Citroen e-C3, with which it shares its 44kWh battery and 199-mile range, by £1,195. New, cheaper batteries could bring those prices down considerably, removing what Francois says is still one of the biggest barriers to EV ownership: price. Francois also revealed that Fiat is working on a replacement for the smaller Panda model that remains on sale for the time being. The new, cheaper baby Panda will follow the Grande Panda with both petrol and electric power. It'll be based on the platform used for the Fiat 500, which was originally launched as an electric car only but is being re-engineered for petrol hybrid power, too. Before we see the new small Panda, an even larger model than the Fiat Grande Panda is expected to launch next year, again with electric and hybrid power, although it may not take the Panda name.
