The teaser clip suggests a mysterious black exterior colour finish for the three cars as well as dark chrome trim pieces for the grille inserts, alloys, and badges. The base variant of these vehicles features a silver-accented bumper, and this might get a dark-finish treatment in the Dark Edition. The headlamps also might receive smoked-out treatment.
Interestingly enough, the teaser also provides a glimpse of the interior, which receives a leatherette finish on the dashboard with contrasting red stitching. All the base models of Citroen receive a plastic dashboard, so this might be an upgraded feature, at least on the Basalt and Aircross. The teaser also provided us with an opportunity to take a sneak peek at the new black leatherette upholstery with contrast stitching. Yet, the equipment list should not be expected to change. Dark Edition models will probably be based on the top-of-the-range trim of its respective car.
Powertrain options in Citroen Aircross, Basalt and C3 dark editions
The Dark Edition versions of the Aircross, Basalt and C3 are set to be mechanically untouched. The three cars are fitted with either an 82hp, 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol or a 110hp, 1.2-litre turbo-petrol; the former is offered without an auto-box option. Dark Edition versions are set to come in top Turbo trim only.
Growing Popularity of the dark edition models
The inventory of dark edition SUVs also appears to increase every other day. The likes of Hyundai Creta, MG Astor, Honda Elevate, Tata Harrier and Safari, Jeep Compass and Mahindra Scorpio N all sport Dark Edition avatars, and the latest in this list is the Mahindra XUV700 Ebony Edition.
And even that is not exclusive to SUVs, since the Toyota Hilux and MG Comet also received dark edition updates recently. Apart from these Citroen vehicles, the Tata Curvv also awaits a dark edition shortly.
Conclusion
Citroen's move to launch Dark Editions of the Aircross, Basalt, and C3 is in line with the increasing trend toward all-black, stealthy-looking vehicles that have been extremely popular in India. The updates are cosmetic but give the lineup an air of sophistication and sportiness. With others in the market also increasing their dark edition offerings, it is obvious that this styling option appeals a great deal to customers. With further evolution in Citroen's offerings, these Dark Edition models are sure to appeal to fans seeking an enhanced premium and unique look without mechanical improvements.
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