Citroen C3 vs GAC Aion UT
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Hatchbacks compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Citroen C3 starts from $23,990 before on-road costs, while the GAC Aion UT opens at $31,990. That makes the Citroen C3 the more affordable entry point by $8,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $26,389 and $35,189 respectively.
The GAC Aion UT qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Citroen C3, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Citroen C3 and GAC Aion UT hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the Citroen C3 and 88% for the GAC Aion UT.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GAC Aion UT packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 1 in the Citroen C3.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Citroen C3 stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the GAC Aion UT. The GAC Aion UT counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and V2L. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Citroen C3 gets cloth upholstery while the GAC Aion UT offers pvc.
Drivetrain
The Citroen C3 uses a Petrol producing 81kW and 205Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.9 seconds.
The GAC Aion UT responds with a Electric making 150kW and 210Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds.
The GAC Aion UT has the clear power advantage at 150kW vs 81kW. In the real-world sprint, the GAC Aion UT is 3.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Citroen C3 measures 4,015mm long on a 2,540mm wheelbase, 255mm shorter than the GAC Aion UT at 4,270mm (2,750mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GAC Aion UT generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 310L in the Citroen C3 and 321L in the GAC Aion UT, giving the GAC Aion UT a 11L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m diameter
Average
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Citroen C3) vs 8 years / 150,000km (GAC Aion UT). The GAC Aion UT has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Citroen C3 if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Citroen's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the GAC Aion UT if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer GAC's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GAC Aion UT takes 5 of 6 key spec categories. The GAC Aion UT adds peace of mind with a longer 8-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Citroen C3 and GAC Aion UT?
The Citroen C3 is the cheapest at $23,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the GAC Aion UT by $8,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Citroen C3 uses the least fuel at 5.7L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Citroen C3 and GAC Aion UT all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The GAC Aion UT has the largest boot at 321L.
Which has the best warranty?
The GAC Aion UT has the longest warranty at 8 years / 150k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The GAC Aion UT makes the most power at 150kW. The GAC Aion UT is quickest to 100km/h in 7.3s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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