Citroen has just unveiled the C3, and it does not fit in the expected segment. Despite being in the subcompact SUV segment, its equipment and expected competitive pricing will be comparable to the Tata Punch. Subcompact SUVs such as the Tata Nexon and Kia Sonet are far more feature-rich, with diesel engine options as well. We put the Citroen C3 against the Tata Punch as the closest sensible rival. Consider the Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch spec comparison.
Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch: Dimensions and Feature
In terms of size, the C3 is 3.98 metres long, with other measurements to be published at a later date. However, its 2,540mm wheelbase is the best in its class. The Punch is planned to be 3.8 metres long, 1.8 metres wide, and 1.6 metres high, with a 2,450 mm wheelbase.
While the C3 has some modern features, they are few and far between, as it lacks automatic climate control, electrically adjustable and foldable outside mirrors, cruise control, keyless entry and go, and more. As a result of the budget cuts, it’s not competitively equipped. Tata Punch, on the other hand, has a luxurious interior but lacks features. The high-set dashboard gets a free-standing touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. In addition, there is a semi-digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, keyless entry/go, and more. The Tata Punch has superior interior and equipment to the C3 when compared side by side.
Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch: Interiors and Exteriors
There are a lot more interesting elements and shades in the Citroen C3’s interior than there are in the Audi A3. The centre console is painted a vibrant orange and comes equipped with a large 10-inch infotainment screen that works with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. When it comes to the C3, Citroen includes a fully digital instrument cluster.
Design-wise, Citroen C3 borrows substantially from the C4 Coupe SUV and the C5 Aircross. It has a variety of styling cues, including X-shaped LED daytime running lights, bubble side cladding, and squared tail lights. However, the lack of alloy wheels and customary placement of side indicators show the high cost. Tata Punch, on the other hand, has a unique design that borrows heavily from the Harrier. There are high-mounted LED daytime running lights and split LED headlights as well as LED DRLs. Silver skid plates and spherical fog lamps are standard on the Punch, same as they are on the C3. Due to its lower overall length, the Punch appears smaller from the side. It does, however, come equipped with dual-tone alloy wheels and C-pillar mounted rear door handles. The LED taillights on the Punch are an upgrade above the C3’s standard bulbs.
Citroen C3 vs Tata Punch – Engine and Handling
Citroen has not yet revealed the C3’s engine options because different markets around the world may receive different engines. However, rumours suggest a 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with around 130 horsepower may be in the works instead. Standard manual transmission will be available, but a dual-clutch automatic transmission may also be offered. As a cost-saving measure, no diesel engines will be offered, and Citroen plans to build the powertrain locally.
Tata Punch and Tiago will share a 1.2-liter gasoline engine. When it goes on sale in the U.S., it will be available with a 5-speed manual or an automatic transmission (AMT). Tata could also use the Altroz’s 110Hp turbocharged 1.2L petrol engine in the XUV500. The Punch will only be available in gasoline, just like the C3. If rumours are to be believed, the C3 will have a significant performance advantage over the Punch.
Price and Launch
Citroen has revealed the C3 for the international market, and the launch in India will occur during the first half of 2022, according to industry sources. Citroen’s cost-cutting measures and range of competitive pricing negate the market’s earlier anticipation that it would compete with the Hyundai Venue and Tata Nexon. The Maruti Suzuki Ignis, Tata Punch, and Mahindra KUV100 are all likely competitors for the C3. Citroen may charge between Rs 5.5 lakh and Rs 9 lakh for the C3 when it goes on sale.
Tata Punch is scheduled to go on sale in October, but pre-orders are now being accepted on an unofficial basis. Tata will charge more for it than the Tiago, but it will be positioned below the Nexon as the company’s smallest SUV. The company is planning to sell the Punch for between Rs 5.5 lakh and Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom) when it goes on sale in the first quarter of 2019.
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