FRENCH CARMAKER CITROËN has announced the launch date for its new C4 Aircross compact SUV as the first half of 2012. The car will go on sale in the UK during the second half of the same year.
The new model takes its styling from Citroën’s Hypnos concept car revealed in 2008, and will feature 2 and 4WD.
Although UK trim levels and engines are yet to be confirmed, the C4 Aircross can be fitted with either a 1.6-litre 115bhp petrol or 1.6-litre 110 or 1.8-litre 150bhp HDi diesel. A 150hp 2.0 petrol will not make its way to Europe.
Good towcar? Too early to tell
Despite its name, the Aircross will not be based on the current C4 platform, instead it will share its chassis with Mitsubishi’s ASX. All towing and kerbweights are yet to be decided and aren’t easily guessed, either. As a towcar, the standard C4’s diesels are relatively capable. On the other hand, the Mitsubishi ASX can only claim a maximum 1400kg tow limit.
The 110bhp HDi diesel will be offered with both 2 and 4WD, the 4WD system automatically adjusting torque to those wheels needing it most. Distributing the power will be a 6-speed gearbox.
