The Citroen C3 Aircross is a compact SUV with a distinctive style, impressive comfort, and practicality, making it a popular choice in the UAE market. When purchasing a new car, it is important to look beyond the initial purchase price and consider the overall cost of ownership. The Citroen C3 Aircross is a popular budget car under AED 90,000. This blog post explores the expenses associated with owning a Citroen C3 Aircross in the UAE, including the purchase price, insurance, maintenance, fuel costs, and more.

Initial Purchase Price
The Citroen C3 Aircross comes with a competitive price tag for a compact SUV, the new car prices start from approximately AED 80,000 to AED 86,000, depending on the variant and features selected. The vehicle's appealing pricing makes it a value-for-money option for those looking for a versatile and stylish urban SUV.
Financing is widely available through banks and dealerships in the UAE, which allows buyers to make monthly payments instead of paying the entire amount upfront. Depending on the interest rates and down payment, monthly payments can range from AED 1,500 to AED 2,200.

Insurance Costs
Car insurance is mandatory for all vehicle owners in the UAE, and the cost of buying an insurance for Citroen C3 Aircross depends on several factors, including the driver’s age, experience, and type of coverage:
Third-Party Liability Insurance: This is the basic insurance required by law and covers damage to other vehicles or property. The cost for third-party insurance is typically between AED 1,000 to AED 1,500 annually.
Comprehensive Insurance: Comprehensive insurance is the preferred option, covering theft, damages, and third-party liabilities. The cost of comprehensive insurance for the Citroen C3 Aircross is between AED 2,500 to AED 3,500 per year, depending on the driver's history and the chosen deductible.

Fuel Costs
The Citroen C3 Aircross is known for its efficient engines, which provide a good balance of power and fuel economy. The vehicle typically delivers around 15-16 km per litre, making it an economical choice for city and highway driving.
In the UAE, fuel prices are relatively low, which contributes to lower running costs. If an owner drives around 1,500 kilometres per month, the monthly fuel cost can be estimated at AED 250 to AED 300, depending on driving habits and the prevailing fuel price.

Maintenance and Servicing Costs
Maintaining your vehicle is crucial to keeping it running smoothly and preventing any potential issues down the road. The Citroen C3 Aircross requires routine maintenance, which includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and system checks:
Routine Service: Routine servicing for the Citroen C3 Aircross typically costs between AED 500 to AED 800 per visit and is recommended every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres. These services usually include oil changes, filter replacements, and general inspections.
Major Service: Every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometres, a major service is required, which involves more comprehensive maintenance such as brake pad replacements, air conditioning system checks, and fluid replacements. The cost for major servicing can range from AED 1,500 to AED 2,500.
Citroen also offers extended warranties and service packages, which can be beneficial for covering maintenance costs and minimizing expenses over the ownership period.

Depreciation
Depreciation is a significant aspect of the total cost of ownership for any car. The Citroen C3 Aircross is expected to lose about 20-25% of its value in the first year and approximately 50% after five years. This means that a vehicle bought for AED 85,000 might be worth around AED 42,500 after five years, depending on its condition, mileage, and market demand.

Registration and Miscellaneous Costs
In the UAE, the cost of registering a vehicle is approximately AED 400 to AED 500 annually. In addition to the registration fee, there are other expenses such as annual inspections, which cost around AED 170. Additionally, owners need to consider other smaller costs, such as car washes and toll fees, which could add up to AED 500 to AED 1,000 annually.

Parking Costs
Depending on where you reside in the UAE, parking fees can be an important consideration, especially if you live in urban areas where parking is often metered. Monthly parking fees can range from AED 200 to AED 500, particularly in places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Total Annual Cost of Ownership
When considering the total annual cost of owning a Citroen C3 Aircross, the breakdown includes fuel, maintenance, insurance, registration, and miscellaneous expenses. The estimated annual cost is around AED 15,000 to AED 20,000, excluding depreciation. This includes:
Fuel: AED 3,000 to AED 3,600
Insurance: AED 2,500 to AED 3,500
Maintenance: AED 1,500 to AED 3,000
Registration and Miscellaneous: AED 1,000 to AED 1,500
Parking (optional): AED 2,400 to AED 6,000

Conclusion: Is the Citroen C3 Aircross Worth the Cost?
The Citroen C3 Aircross is an appealing choice for those looking for a compact SUV that offers comfort, practicality, and a unique design. With an estimated total cost of ownership of AED 15,000 to AED 20,000 annually, the C3 Aircross offers value for money when considering its efficient fuel consumption, affordable maintenance, and comprehensive features.

For those seeking a vehicle that is versatile enough for city driving while also providing comfort for longer journeys, the Citroen C3 Aircross is worth considering. It is essential to keep all ownership costs in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ownership experience in the UAE.