Citroen pulls the veil off its latest offering, and it's not the hatchback devotees were perhaps hoping for. The automotive world welcomes yet another crossover, but with a twist that might make fans come around.

Stepping into the limelight is not the anticipated new C3 but its electric sibling, the aptly christened e-C3. Leading the charge for the fourth generation of Citroen's iconic model, the e-C3 is a pivot toward the electric future. It is the pioneer on the Stellantis Smart Car platform, an initiative pushing cost-efficiency to the forefront.

Powered by a 44kWh lithium ferro phosphate battery pack, it promises up to 199 miles on a full charge. In the age of the rapid pace, the 100kW DC rapid charging ensures that within a mere 26 minutes, the e-C3 gets juiced up from 20 to 80%. Its 111bhp electric motor doesn’t boast of the most riveting statistics, clocking 0-62mph in around 11 seconds and topping at a modest 84mph.

However, where it might truly capture attention is in its wallet-friendly price tag. Starting at under £23,000, it's set to give its more expensive peers a run for their money. And if the 199-mile range isn’t enticing enough, Citroen teases a more affordable 124-mile variant slated for a 2025 debut. When a Vauxhall Corsa Electric starts at £32,095 with a range of 222 miles, the Citroen quickly stands out as the better, affordable option.

But why the crossover? The blueprint is drawn from the Oli concept, marking the debut of Citroen’s redefined face. It's grown in stature, stretching 19mm in length, broadening by 6mm, and elevating almost 30mm from its predecessor. Citroen cites evolving customer preferences for this design pivot, as evidenced by the black plastic cladding.

Diving into the details, the e-C3 will roll out in three distinctive trims: the audacious ‘YOU!’, the ‘PLUS’, and the ‘MAX’. The former graces the road with 16-inch steel wheels, while its counterparts flaunt 17-inch alloys. But regardless of trim, each e-C3 benefits from Citroen’s Advanced Comfort Suspension, a sophisticated system that employs hydraulic bump stops, ensuring rides are as smooth as silk.

Inside, it's a sanctuary of comfort. Citroen Advanced Comfort seats promise a plush ride, and the intriguingly named C-ZEN LOUNGE brings a unique aesthetic to the dashboard. Although, one might be hard-pressed to find its resemblance to any conventional lounge. Among the other novelties are a compact steering wheel and an innovative dial display, mirrored onto a glossy section below the windscreen. And, for those eyeing the PLUS or MAX, a generous 10.25-inch touchscreen awaits.

In a world where crossovers are becoming the norm, Citroen’s e-C3 might just be the breath of fresh electric air many have been waiting for.

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