Citroën C3 Aircross Wins Auto Express Used Car of the Year 2021

There’s a well worn motoring cliché to describe a great all-rounder – but in the case of the C3 Aircross, it really is “all the car you’ll ever need”. It’s no surprise to see it score so well on the used market; indeed, the Citroën scooped Compact SUV of the Year in our 2019 New Car Awards. There were so many reasons why it won on that occasion, and they all remain relevant today. 

Its appeal is widespread. For starters, it’s highly practical. At 4.1 metres long, it’s shorter than a VW Golf, yet it has acres of room; the high roof in particular gives plenty of space front and rear. Clever use of fabrics across the dash and door panels gives the Citroën a feeling of quality that lots of competitors can’t match, while smartphone connectivity is excellent.

Many rivals cite sportiness as inspiration, but the C3 bucks the trend. Those soft looks match its ride – the way it floats over bumps is reminiscent of Citroëns of old, and it’s all the better for it. The strong engines incorporate very frugal diesels and petrols that give strong performance and are easy on the wallet, too.

True to its form when new, the C3 Aircross seals the win thanks to its affordability. Clean, three-year-old examples now dip below £9,000 – and at that money, it’s virtually impossible to fault. Congratulations, Citroën; the C3 Aircross is our 2021 Used Car of the Year.