New Citroen eC3 testing in India reveals bolder design, improved battery, and 400km range. Affordable EV rival to Tiago EV? Price, specs, launch date inside.
The new Citroen eC3 has been spotted testing on Indian roads, signaling an imminent update to this popular electric hatchback that’s already carving a niche in the budget EV segment. Building on its existing popularity with monthly sales hovering around 80-100 units despite stiff competition, the refreshed eC3 promises refinements in range, safety, and styling to boost its appeal among urban commuters. This development comes at a pivotal time as India’s EV market surges, with Citroen aiming to double down on affordability and practicality.
Citroen eC3 Testing Insights: What’s New Under the Camo?
Spy shots of the new Citroen eC3 reveal a familiar sub-4m footprint but with sharper creases on the bumper and headlights, hinting at a more aggressive front fascia inspired by Citroen’s global EV lineup. The test mule sports larger alloy wheels, possibly 16-inch units, paired with revised side skirts for better aerodynamics—a key factor in squeezing out extra range. From the rear, updated LED taillights and a chunkier diffuser suggest a sportier vibe, while the overall silhouette remains true to the eC3’s compact, city-friendly ethos.
Under the hood, expect an upgraded 29.2kWh LFP battery pack, pushing claimed range beyond the current 320km to around 400km on a single charge, based on industry rumors and testing patterns. Powertrain tweaks could include a more efficient 57PS/143Nm motor with improved thermal management for India’s sweltering summers, addressing past concerns about air-cooling limits. Fast charging might hit 80% in under 30 minutes via a 22kW AC setup, making it a strong daily driver for fleet operators like BluSmart who’ve already ordered thousands.
Adding value here: As someone who’s followed EV transitions in emerging markets, this new Citroen eC3 feels like Citroen’s bid to humanize electric mobility—think hassle-free ownership with Citroen’s Advanced Comfort suspension soaking up potholes better than most rivals, turning chaotic commutes into smooth cruises.
Citroen eC3 Performance and Real-World Upgrades
The current Citroen eC3 delivers peppy acceleration, zipping to 60kmph in about 9 seconds, and the new version should refine this with software tweaks for smoother regen braking and one-pedal driving. Top speed remains around 100kmph, sufficient for highways, but enhanced torque vectoring could improve cornering stability. Ride quality, a Citroen hallmark, uses progressive hydraulic cushions that isolate bumps exceptionally well—perfect for India’s uneven roads where many EVs feel jittery.
Safety gets a spotlight post its modest Global NCAP scores (0-star adult, 1-star child on older tests); the new eC3 might add six airbags, ESP and a 360-degree camera as standard, aligning with Bharat NCAP demands. Inside, a larger 10.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, ventilated seats and a heads-up display could elevate the cabin from basic to premium. Human touch: Imagine plugging in your phone mid-traffic, streaming podcasts while the AC chills efficiently—small wins that make EV life less robotic and more relatable for first-timers.
Battery health monitoring via app, V2L capability for powering gadgets, and a 7-year warranty would seal long-term value, especially with running costs under ₹1/km.
Citroen eC3 Market Position and Sales Story
Despite modest volumes—83 units in Oct 2025, up 79% MoM—the Citroen eC3 has sold over 3,450 units since launch with 7,000 pending orders, proving fleet demand from logistics firms. Priced from ₹11.5-13 lakh ex-showroom currently, the new eC3 could start at ₹12 lakh post-update, undercutting pricier imports while matching Tata Tiago EV’s range. Citroen’s strategy targets B2B growth, leveraging 100+ fast chargers nationwide.
Why it matters: In a market where EVs are graduating from novelties to necessities, the new Citroen eC3 stands out for unpretentious reliability—no flashy gimmicks, just honest engineering that gets you from A to B greener and cheaper. Early adopters report 250-280km real-world range, low maintenance and resale holding steady thanks to Citroen’s expanding network.
Also Read : Tata Curvv Discounts Heat Up December 2025- Save Up to ₹50,000 on This Stylish SUV!
Citroen eC3 vs Rivals: Specs Comparison Table
The new Citroen eC3 positions aggressively against budget EV hatchbacks. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | New Citroen eC3 (Expected) | Tata Tiago EV | MG Comet EV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery/Range | 29.2kWh/400km | 24kWh/315km | 17.3kWh/230km |
| Power/Torque | 57PS/143Nm | 60PS/110Nm | 42PS/110Nm |
| Charging (0-80%) | ~30min | 58min | 7hrs |
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | ₹12-14L | ₹8-12L | ₹7-10L |
| Safety (NCAP) | 3-star expected | 4-star | Untested |
| Boot Space | 310L | 240L | 237L |
Tiago EV leads in features, but eC3’s comfort and range edge it for families. Comet suits ultra-city use.
Why the New Citroen eC3 Could Be Your Next EV Pick
This spotted test mule underscores Citroen’s commitment to India-specific EVs—affordable, durable and feature-packed without excess. Launch expected by mid-2026, it arrives amid FAME-III incentives, potentially dropping effective prices further. For commuters tired of fuel bills, the new Citroen eC3 offers a refreshing blend of French flair and Indian practicality.
Real talk: EVs like this aren’t about speed records; they’re lifestyle upgrades—silent mornings, zero emissions, and peace of mind. Paired with Citroen’s growing service footprint, it’s a smart bet in the EV revolution. Watch for official reveals soon.
