Change in the entry-level version reduces power, but promises higher urban consumption; configuration should arrive in Brazil soon.
In another step to consolidate the synergy between the brands of the Stellantis group, the Citroën Aircross is now offered in Argentina with the aspirated 1.3 Firefly engine, common in the Fiat line in Brazil. The mechanical update marks the end of the line for the veteran 1.6 EC5 engine (of Peugeot/PSA origin) in the entry-level version of the SUV, in a replacement that significantly changes the vehicle’s dynamics.
The old 1.6 engine still resisted in the neighboring market due to the absence of tax incentives for smaller displacement engines — unlike in Brazil, where the 1.0 car enjoys tax benefits. Now, the Feel Pack version comes equipped with the 1.3, maintaining the package of items that includes 16″ wheels, four airbags and 10″ multimedia, but with a new efficiency proposal.
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The exchange takes its toll on raw performance, but returns on savings. The Aircross loses steam: power drops from 115 hp to 99 hp (in gasoline), and torque drops from 15,3 kgfm to 13 kgfm. On the other hand, energy efficiency shows notable gains: homologation data indicate that urban consumption jumped from 10.5 km/l to 12.2 km/l, while road efficiency improved from 17.8 km/l to 18.2 km/l.
In the Brazilian market, the Aircross is currently sold only with the 1.0 Turbo 200 engine. However, the movement in Argentina is a strong indication of the automaker’s next steps here. Prototypes of the model have already been spotted in tests in Brazil equipped with the 1.3 Firefly.
According to an investigation by journalist Marlos Ney Vidal, from the Auto Segredos website, the test units did not have an intercooler and had the characteristic noise of natural aspiration, signaling that Citroën is preparing a new entry-level version that is more affordable for the domestic market, positioned below the turbocharged options.
