Citroen India has come up with the Dark Edition trims of its mainstream models and recently, I had a good look at interior and exterior of Citroen C3 Dark Edition
I recently got the opportunity to experience the new Citroen C3 Dark Edition in the flesh and would love to share my opinions. Note that Citroen offers only SUVs and crossovers in India. It aims to leverage the popularity of SUVs in the latest few years. In fact, we have seen new segments emerge to further bifurcate these vehicles. Apart from that, Dark Edition avatars are also gaining prominence in our market, especially among young buyers. That is why Citroen has launched the Dark Edition models of its SUVs. Here is what I discovered about the Citroen C3 Dark Edition.
Citroen C3 Dark Edition
During my walkaround tour of the Citroen C3 Dark Edition, I checked out the differences on the exterior in comparison to the regular model. The SUV is finished in the Perla Nera Black colour. There are black elements on the body including the matte black front grille, black treatment on the Chevron logo at the front, along with red inserts on the sides of the fog lamps, with a rugged contrasting scuff plate. You will also find the Dark Edition badge on the door panels and red highlight on the C-pillars.
Moving to the inside, all-black upholstery with red stitching and accents revealed itself to me. The seat covers are leatherette and there is a Dark Edition engraving on the seats with red elements. There’s no other change to speak of. All-black cars usually have this instant appeal — they look sharp, stealthy, and confident, and the C3 is no different. With its gloss black elements, dark-themed alloys, and matching cabin treatment, the car looks far more premium than the regular version. For visual drama, it totally delivers. But as I spent more time around it, I couldn’t help but feel this was a bit of a missed opportunity.
Also Read: 3 Pros and 3 Cons of Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV
Also Read: Citroen Basalt Dark Edition Detailed on Tape [Video]
A Missed Opportunity?
See, the Dark Edition badge should’ve been more than just a cosmetic refresh. Yes, Citroen has nailed the aesthetics — but what about the features that have always been missing? This could have been the perfect moment to plug those gaps. An auto-dimming IRVM, connected car technology, or perhaps, even an electric sunroof — things that today’s buyers expect, and rivals already offer.
Instead, we’re left with a great-looking vehicle that still doesn’t fully deliver on the equipment front. And that’s frustrating for many buyers, because the fundamentals of the C3 are strong — it rides well, has peppy engine, and offers a solid driving feel. If only Citroen had taken this edition as a chance to do more under the surface. The Dark Edition could have elevated the C3 from a stylish outlier to a serious contender in its segment. What’s your view on this?
