citroen : French automaker Citroën is adding a bold twist to its Indian lineup with the launch of Dark Edition trims for three of its popular models – C3 hatchback, C3 Aircross SUV, and the upcoming Basalt Coupe-SUV. With growing demand for blacked-out, sporty cars, Citroën is following the trend and offering Indian buyers a more aggressive and premium aesthetic.
Let’s explore what these Dark Editions bring to the table — including design updates, new interior elements, tech features, engine specs, pricing, and what makes them stand out in the crowded Indian automobile market.
🖤 What Is the Dark Edition?
The “Dark Edition” is Citroën’s latest attempt to appeal to urban and style-conscious car buyers by introducing an all-black styling package. This trend is quite popular in India, as seen with Tata’s “Dark Editions,” Hyundai’s “Knight Editions,” and Mahindra’s “Midnight” trims.
With the Dark Edition, Citroën has given the C3, Aircross, and Basalt a monochrome makeover, complete with:
- Black exterior paint finish
- Blacked-out alloys
- Dark grey or gloss black accents
- Unique interior trims
- Special badging
The goal is to make the vehicles look more aggressive, modern, and urban-focused, while retaining the practicality and performance that Citroën is known for.
🚘 Citroën C3 Dark Edition: Entry Hatch Goes Premium
Exterior Highlights:
- Deep black body color
- Gloss black alloy wheels
- Black roof and dark chrome accents
- Black ORVMs and grille elements
Interior Upgrades:
- Premium black dashboard insert
- Black fabric seat upholstery with grey contrast stitching
- Grey trims on air vents and center console
- 10.2-inch infotainment with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- USB charging ports, dual airbags, and rear parking sensors
Engine:
- 1.2L Naturally Aspirated Petrol (82 PS, 115 Nm)
- 1.2L Turbo Petrol (110 PS, 190 Nm)
- 5-speed MT or 6-speed MT (turbo)
The C3 Dark Edition adds a fresh identity to the car without altering its core value offering — affordability with flair.
🚙 Citroën C3 Aircross Dark Edition: SUV Appeal, Now Sleeker
The C3 Aircross was launched as a budget-friendly alternative to the Creta and Seltos, offering spacious interiors and bold design. The Dark Edition enhances its visual appeal significantly.
Key Highlights:
- Full black exterior paint
- 17-inch blacked-out alloy wheels
- Black cladding around the wheel arches and lower body
- Updated grille with darkened finish
- Smoked headlamps and taillamps for a rugged look
Interior Touches:
- Black seat upholstery with Dark Grey accents
- Soft-touch dark panels on the dash
- 10.2-inch infotainment display
- Manual AC, USB ports, and connected car features
- 5-seater and 7-seater options
Engine Specs:
- 1.2L Turbo Petrol Engine
- 110 PS, 190 Nm
- 6-speed Manual Transmission
- No automatic as of now
The Aircross Dark Edition is a great choice for those who want a budget SUV that doesn’t compromise on bold aesthetics.
🆕 Citroën Basalt Dark Edition: Previewing the Future
Though the Citroën Basalt Coupe SUV is yet to be officially launched, the brand has already revealed its Dark Edition. This signifies Citroën’s intention to make the Basalt a style-forward, sporty SUV from day one.
What We Know So Far:
- Sloping coupe-style roofline with sporty rear profile
- Entire body painted in black with smoked tail-lights
- Gloss black grille, door handles, and roof rails
- LED DRLs and projector headlamps
- Bold 17/18-inch alloy wheels
Interior Expectations:
- Black theme dashboard
- Contrast stitching on seats
- Large infotainment screen
- Premium audio and wireless charging (expected)
Powertrain:
- Likely to use the 1.2L turbo petrol engine
- Possibility of an automatic transmission
- Might be launched in mid-2025
The Basalt Dark Edition will appeal to a younger audience looking for a stylish and unique SUV in a competitive segment.
💰 Pricing & Variants
While Citroën hasn’t released the exact pricing for each Dark Edition variant, here are the expected price ranges:
| Model | Standard Variant Price | Dark Edition Expected Price |
|---|---|---|
| C3 Hatchback | ₹6.16 – ₹8.92 lakh | ₹6.50 – ₹9.30 lakh |
| C3 Aircross | ₹9.99 – ₹12.45 lakh | ₹10.40 – ₹12.90 lakh |
| Basalt (upcoming) | NA | Estimated ₹13 – ₹15 lakh |
The Dark Editions are likely to carry a premium of ₹30,000 to ₹50,000 over standard variants due to visual upgrades and added trim features.
🧑✈️ Who Should Consider the Citroën Dark Editions?
These Dark Editions are ideal for:
- Young professionals looking for a stylish urban car
- SUV lovers who want something distinct from mainstream brands
- Customers bored with regular white/silver color options
- First-time car buyers wanting a premium feel on a budget
With Citroën focusing heavily on design and comfort, these models provide a compelling option in their respective categories.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Are the Dark Editions Worth It?
The Dark Edition trims of the Citroën C3, Aircross, and Basalt are a smart move by the brand to tap into the growing love for all-black aesthetics in India. These special variants deliver all the value of the standard cars while adding a significant visual upgrade.
While there are no mechanical changes, the emphasis on design, exclusivity, and premium feel make these trims more desirable, especially for urban buyers.
If you’re in the market for a stylish, efficient, and unique car in the hatchback or compact SUV segment, the Citroën Dark Editions are definitely worth a look.
