The first vehicle using the nameplate was the Brazilian version of the C3 Picasso MPV, decorated to mimic an SUV exterior design, which was produced between 2010 and 2020.

Compared with the global C3 Picasso, the restyled C3 Aircross has raised suspension, chrome roof bars, mirror covers, side skirts and a rear spare tyre.

[8] Late 2014, Citroën C3 Aircross Lunar showcar was revealed at São Paulo International Motor Show.

20 kg (44.1 lb) of the vehicle's polymers, include the parcel shelf, boot carpet, and partial use in the doors, are from natural fibres to meet this target.

The basic X model launched with no airbags, ABS, or temperature sensor; the last of which they consider to be a necessity in the hot Latin American climate.

They criticised the boot, calling it awkward and complicated since it can only open once an arm carrying the spare tyre has been unlocked and swung out of the way, which increases the space required for parking.

[20] Only one engine is available for the C3 Aircross; a 1.6-litre HDi used in other Citroën cars, including the Latin American market's C3 Picasso.

It shares its platform and many elements with its cousin the Opel Crossland X that replaces the Meriva, following the partnership between Groupe PSA and General Motors, which was first announced in 2012.

Its style, directed by Pierre Authier, is in harmony with that of the new Citroën range: front double decker, "3D" lights.

[24] The model underwent a mid-life restyling through a facelift (inspired by CXperience concept), revealed in February 2021, with production starting in June that year.

[26] Pre-facelift models Facelift models Jeremy Clarkson in the Grand Tour reviewed the Aircross and showed that the vehicle could tow a 30,000 ton Neptune car carrier ferry a distance of 25 metres, chase a De Tomaso Pantera until the robber's car broke down, fit 4 children inside with him, and even take the route of the Tunisian general Hannibal from 218 BC, going faster than an elephant.

[41] The second-generation C3 Aircross for the European market was unveiled on 18 April 2024,[42] with full specifications revealed including interior photos on 19 June.

[43] It is built on the Smart Car Platform underpinning the Opel Frontera and it will be available with petrol mild hybrid and battery electric powertrains.

[45] The interior of the C3 Aircross is similar to the C3, featuring the C-Zen Lounge concept with Citroën's Head-Up Display and a flat-bottom design steering wheel.

[51][52] Compared to its predecessor, the second-generation model is significantly larger with an increased length by 160 mm (6.3 in) and the availability of third-row seating.

[55] Citroën claimed that over 90% of its components are locally sourced at the Tiruvallur plant in Tamil Nadu and it will be exported to ASEAN, Nepal and South African markets.

The C3 Aircross was launched in South Africa on 16 July 2024 in a sole Max trim, available in either 5- and 7-seater configurations, powered by a 1.2-litre PureTech turbocharged petrol paired to an 6-speed automatic.