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Citroen eC3 vs Tata Tiago EV: Space & Practicality Comparison


Both electric vehicles offer a real-world range of over 200km, but which one is more livable within the city?

If you’re trying to choose an affordable electric hatchback in India, you might feel undecided between the Citroen eC3 and Tata Tiago EV. Both EVs have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, but which one is the all-rounder? In this review, we’ll compare the space and practicality of both the EVs to help you decide which one suits you best.

Before we continue, our partner website has conducted a ride and handling comparison of both EVs, which you can read here.

Key

To begin with the key, the eC3 receives a remote key with lock and unlock buttons, which gives it an outdated feel. Even in the top-spec variant of the eC3, the key needs to be inserted to bring the EV to life, as it doesn’t have the push-button start feature.

On the other hand, the Tiago EV’s key fob can rest in your pocket as Tata’s electric hatchback comes with a passive entry feature and a push-button start/stop as well. Unlike the eC3, Tata’s EV also comes with auto-folding ORVMs.

Looks

The Citroen eC3 has an SUV-like stance due to its upright presence. Elements like body cladding and roof rails give it a rugged look. But it still gives an outdated vibe due to the flap style door handles and fender-mounted turn indicators. It also looks the same as the C3, and Citroen could have done more to differentiate the looks of its electric hatchback from that of its ICE iteration. 

On the other hand, the Tiago EV is a stylish hatchback that can be easily distinguished from the regular Tiago. Its distinct color scheme, bumper design, and blue accents allow this vehicle to stand out in a crowd. In contrast to the eC3, the Tiago EV is equipped with projector headlamps and turn indicators mounted on the outside rear-view mirrors (ORVMs). It also has a font used for the Tiago.ev badging that adds more value to the customers who are willing to pay a more premium amount for an electric vehicle.

In terms of dimensions, the eC3 is larger than the Tiago EV. The eC3 rides on 15-inch alloy wheels, while the Tiago EV features smaller 14-inch steel wheels with wheel caps. However, the eC3 lacks the distinguishing factors typically associated with electric cars. In contrast, Tata’s electric hatchback, despite its smaller size, possesses a more appealing overall design.

Interior

The eC3’s cabin features a funky design, highlighted by contrast-colored door pockets and a dotted pattern on the dashboard. However, the materials used could have been better, and the panel gaps in certain areas could have been more uniform. The eC3 offers a higher driving position, resulting in improved visibility and better judgment of the car’s dimensions in traffic.

The Tiago EV’s dashboard showcases a sober and mature design. The quality of the plastics used is comparable to that of the eC3, but the fit and finish is a concern with Tata’s electric hatchback. In terms of the seating position, it is not as elevated as the eC3, but maneuvering the Tiago EV through city traffic isn’t challenging.

Features

Both electric hatchbacks are equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system that supports connected car technology, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. They also feature a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, digitized driver’s display, height-adjustable driver’s seat, and steering-mounted controls. 

Citroen eC3: The eC3 features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, which is larger than that of the Tiago. It also supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, but there are some issues with Bluetooth connectivity that could potentially be resolved in the future through a software update. The eC3’s feature list is basic for a top-end variant of an electric vehicle, with several amenities missing, such as passive keyless entry, rear camera, cruise control, automatic AC, and more.

Tata Tiago EV: The Tiago EV comes with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, but it compensates with an 8-speaker Harman sound system, push-button start/stop, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), a rear parking camera, automatic air conditioning, and more. The digitized instrument cluster in the Tiago is also more advanced and stylish compared to the eC3.

Rear Seat Comfort

Citroen eC3: The eC3 feels more spacious than the Tiago EV. It offers a good space for two people at the rear, while adding one more person would make it a little congested. It also offers ample headroom and legroom.

Tiago EV: The Tiago EV is not as spacious as the eC3, and its rear seat is not suitable for accommodating three people comfortably. While the legroom is adequate, it doesn’t provide the same airy feel as the eC3.

Practicality

Both the eC3 and Tiago EV offer good practicality with cupholders, storage areas, bottle holders, and door pockets. The eC3 has more charging ports and a dedicated smartphone tray. However, the layout of the rear power window controls in the eC3 is not ideal.

Boot Space

The eC3 offers more boot space and comes with a spare wheel. The Tiago EV has less boot space and doesn’t have a spare wheel, as the battery pack is accommodated inside the vehicle.

Boot Space

Citroen eC3

Tata Tiago EV

315 litres

240 litres

Ride Comfort

Both EVs offer good ride comfort, but they have slight variations in their response to road undulations. The eC3 has a more SUV-like riding characteristic due to its ample suspension travel, while the Tiago EV has a more hatchback-like ride. The Tiago EV feels more plush in the city and maintains stability at higher speeds.

Warranty

Both the Tiago EV and Citroen eC3 offer warranty coverage on the battery pack, electric motor, and vehicle. Tata offers a longer warranty period for the battery pack and electric motor compared to Citroen.

Warranty

Citroen eC3

Tata Tiago EV

Battery Pack

7 years / 1,40,000km

8 years/ 1,60,000km

Electric Motor

5 years / 1,00,000km

8 years/ 1,60,000km

Vehicle Warranty

3 years / 1,25,000km

3 years / 1,25,000km

Price & Verdict

Price Check

Citroen eC3

Tata Tiago EV

Rs 11.50 lakh to Rs 12.76 lakh

Rs 8.69 lakh to Rs 12.04 lakh

All prices are ex-showroom Delhi

Both electric vehicles offer a range of over 200km based on our real-world tests, which is practical for city usage. While the eC3 is more focused on space and practicality, the Tata Tiago EV offers more premium amenities and better performance at a lower price. The eC3 costs Rs 90,000 more than the Tiago EV and only offers around 20 kms more of range, but it lacks some key features. This makes Tata’s electric hatchback a better value for money option and a better fit for your family.

So, who should buy these? The eC3 is suitable for those who prioritize space and ground clearance, while the Tiago EV is a better choice for those who want a premium cabin experience and a fun-to-drive electric vehicle.

Read More on: Tata Tiago EV Automatic

Volkswagen

Volkswagen reveals new T-Cross: major update for the successful compact SUV

  • Initial pictures and facts for the enhanced generation, which will be launched on the market at the beginning of 2024
  • Improved material quality and overall design of the vehicle interior as well as technical features reflect customer feedback
  • Optionally available Travel Assist assist system permits semi-automated driving

Volkswagen presents the first facts and pictures of the new T-Cross: The car comes to customers with its revamped design, enhanced standard equipment, new technology features and a newly designed high-quality interior. Pre-sales are scheduled to start in the fourth quarter of 2023. In just four years, the T-Cross has captured a top position among compact SUVs: around 1.2 million people have already chosen this versatile Volkswagen. With an average of 300,000 units produced every year, the T-Cross, which is also offered outside Europe under the names Tacqua and Taigun, is currently one of the most successful Volkswagen models worldwide.

T-Cross – near-production concept car.

Modern exterior design and fresh new colours. The new T-Cross features a revamped design with new integrated LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and LED taillight clusters. It also introduces IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights for the first time. The model range now includes three new fresh colors: Grape Yellow, Clear Blue Metallic, and Kings Red Metallic.

T-Cross – near-production concept car.

New infotainment system generation and high-quality interior. The new T-Cross features a free-standing infotainment display, with a standard touchscreen measuring 8 inches and an optional version with a 9.2-inch display. All versions now come with digital instruments as standard, and the interior features improved material quality. The dash panel and front door trims have been redesigned to offer a more premium look and feel. The T-Cross also offers a range of optional features including a manual air conditioning system and the Air Care Climatronic automatic air conditioner.

Well thought-out and variable, transport of e-bikes is now possible. The T-Cross offers a spacious and versatile interior, with space for up to five people and a flexible luggage compartment. With all seats occupied, the T-Cross has a luggage capacity of 385 liters, which can be expanded to 455 liters when loaded up to the height of the rear bench seat. When the rear bench seat is folded down, the T-Cross offers a flat load area with a maximum volume of 1,281 liters. The front passenger seat can also be folded down to accommodate longer items. The T-Cross also has an increased drawbar load, allowing for the towing of heavy trailers and the transport of e-bikes on a carrier mounted on the towbar.

Travel Assist offers significantly improved comfort. The new T-Cross can be equipped with the optional Travel Assist, which provides greater longitudinal and lateral vehicle control. Travel Assist can control the vehicle’s speed with automatic acceleration and braking and can include speed limits, bends, and roundabouts in its control interventions. The T-Cross also features standard LED headlights, LED taillights, and a “Digital Cockpit” with a new infotainment display. The range includes different specification packages, including the Style and R-Line versions. Pre-sales for the new T-Cross will begin in the fourth quarter of 2023, with market launch expected in the first quarter of 2024.

Motorsport

2025 BMW M5 Exclusive Rendering Tries To Predict The Hybrid Super Sedan

The upcoming BMW M5 is expected to be a plug-in hybrid model, combining a brawny V8 engine with electric power. While the current BMW 5 Series lineup does not include an M550i version, the M division is planning to release the new M5 next year. Our exclusive rendering, based on the internal codename “G90,” gives a sneak peek at what the hybrid super sedan might look like by removing the camouflage seen on previous prototypes.

BMW has already provided a glimpse of the next-generation M5’s design with the reveal of the M Performance model, called the i5 M60. The company has also announced that the distinct kidney grille design found on the i5 M60 will carry over to the M5, although it remains to be seen if there will be any modifications. Unlike the current M5 F90, which features vertical slats on the grille, the new model will adopt horizontal bars, similar to the design seen on the latest M2, X5 M, X6 M, and the XM.


News

Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster pick-up to Debut at Goodwood

Ineos has announced that the long-awaited pick-up version of the Grenadier will be showcased at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next month. The vehicle, known as the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster, will be introduced alongside Ineos’ hydrogen-powered Grenadier, and will participate in the event’s famous hill climb.

Previously, the pick-up model was spotted during testing in extreme winter conditions on icy roads.

If you want to learn more about the Goodwood Festival of Speed, click here to read our preview.

Autocar confirmed last year that the Grenadier’s lineup will expand with the addition of a pick-up truck. The recent sighting of the pick-up without a camouflage wrap and fitted with chunky all-terrain tires has fueled speculation that it will possess similar off-road capabilities as its SUV-styled sibling.

During previous public road testing, the Grenadier pick-up did not feature a conventional load bed at the rear. This suggests that the commercial version of the Grenadier may offer various devices and storage compartments to cater to different applications, similar to its predecessor, the previous-generation Defender 130 pick-up.

The Grenadier pick-up will likely compete with popular trucks such as the Toyota Hilux and Volkswagen Amarok, both of which are expected to be updated using similar foundations next year. While Land Rover has not yet confirmed an open-backed version of the current Defender, they have hinted at the possibility, suggesting it would likely be a popular choice.

It is highly likely that the pick-up will follow the SUV’s engine options, which include six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines from BMW with outputs of 283bhp and 250bhp respectively. The addition of a pick-up bed may result in slight performance improvements and enhanced off-road capabilities due to a decrease in rear weight.

Inside, the Grenadier pick-up is expected to have a more utilitarian focus to support the demanding workload of a 4×4 pick-up. While the standard car prioritizes durability with features like drain holes in the floor and stain-resistant materials, the pick-up variant may be offered at a lower price point with fewer features and luxurious touches.

News, Technology

Google Creates a Special Edition Pixel Fold that Cannot Be Purchased

Although the Pixel Fold is a Google phone, it is important to note that it is the first generation of its kind. This means that there may be some hardware issues. Unfortunately, there have already been reports of poor quality, with most of the problems related to the inner foldable screen. One buyer complained on Reddit that their inner foldable screen broke after just one day of use. Another customer voiced their frustration on Reddit about a pink line appearing on the screen after only a few hours of use. There was also a Reddit post mentioning the peeling of the protective cover of the inner foldable screen after approximately five hours of use.

Ron Amadeo from ArsTechnica experienced a malfunction with his review unit’s screen within a few days, and Raymond Wong from Inverse mentioned on Twitter that the hinge parts produced a crackling sound. In addition, there have been numerous complaints on Reddit about erratic or delayed shipments of Pixel Fold orders. Although Google has not yet made an official statement about the faulty Pixel Fold units, it may be wise to wait a few weeks and assess the experiences of a broader audience before spending $1,800 on the phone.

News

Update: Aston Martin partners with Lucid for 2025 electric SUV

Aston Martin has announced a partnership with Lucid to develop their 2025 electric SUV. As part of the agreement, Aston Martin will have access to Lucid’s electric drive units. These units integrate the motor, invertor, and transmission and boast a power density of 9hp per kg. This is more than double Tesla’s power density and eight times that of Hyundai’s motors. Additionally, Lucid is working on motors for racing that have an impressive 17hp per kg.

Aston Martin’s electric cars will utilize four motors, potentially reaching power outputs of up to 1500bhp. Lucid CEO and Chief Technology Officer, Peter Rawlinson, highlighted the difference in their approach: “Aston will use four motors, we’re three. Aston Martin is taking it to the next level.” Aston Martin’s four motor technology will feature a twin-motor front axle that will be unique to their vehicles.

Lucid will also supply battery cells and modules, which Aston Martin will incorporate into a battery pack of their own design. All components will be manufactured at Lucid’s factory in Arizona and then shipped to the UK.

Rawlinson noted that the technology is derived from Lucid’s Air model but with significant software changes. The main differences lie in thermal integration and battery layout. Aston Martin’s technical chief, Roberto Fedeli, aims to have the first electric Aston drivetrain operational on a test bench by the end of the year and a prototype running on the roads by early 2024.

The powertrain will be installed in a “fully flexible BEV platform, modular in height and wheelbase” that is designed to endure until the 2030s, according to Fedeli. This platform will allow Aston Martin to create a sports car that is 2cm lower than their current Aston Martin Vantage, thanks to the compact size and design of Lucid’s cells. Fedeli emphasized the importance of maintaining Aston Martin’s tradition of producing low, sports cars.

However, Aston Martin’s first electric vehicle will not be a sports car but an electric SUV crossover, as hinted in a teaser sketch released alongside the news about the partnership with Lucid. It is expected that an electric GT model will follow by 2030, but for now, the focus is on the SUV crossover.

News

New 2024 Skoda Kodiaq gains hybrid power and overhauled interior

Skoda has announced the details of the upcoming version of its largest SUV, the new Skoda Kodiaq. The SUV will be fully revealed in the autumn and will be available for sale in early 2024. The second-generation Skoda Kodiaq offers more interior space, introduces electrified powertrains, and incorporates various new interior technologies. Skoda provided a sneak peek of the model through a camouflaged prototype.

The new Kodiaq will be offered with two petrol and two diesel engines, ranging in power from 147bhp to 201bhp. All-wheel drive will be available on top models. Additionally, the Kodiaq will now feature hybrid power for the first time. The electrified range includes a 147bhp 1.5-litre TSI mild-hybrid petrol engine and a 201bhp plug-in hybrid as the top of the range option. The plug-in hybrid model utilizes a 25.7kWh battery, enabling it to achieve a range of over 62 miles on electric power alone. Charging can be done at speeds of up to 50kW.

All engine options are paired with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission, except for the plug-in hybrid model, which comes with a six-speed DSG. The Kodiaq will also undergo an exterior redesign, with the new SUV being 61mm longer than its predecessor. This increase in length allows for a boot space of 910 litres in the five-seat version, while the seven-seat version offers between 340 to 845 litres depending on the seating configuration.

In terms of the interior, the Kodiaq has undergone a significant overhaul. The gear lever has been relocated to the steering column for the first time, and a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen has been installed. The rear now features a new storage compartment with cupholders and a touchscreen display cleaner, and the driver’s door houses Skoda’s signature umbrella.

Klaus Zellmer, Skoda chairman, expressed his confidence in the new Kodiaq, stating, “The Kodiaq has been an absolute success for Skoda ever since its launch in 2016, when it kick-started our SUV campaign.”

Car review

Human Horizons HiPhi X: A Closer Look

The Human Horizons HiPhi X boasts impressive digital screens, although they were not fully operational during our test drive. Once they are up and running, they are expected to provide a rich digital experience.

The central infotainment console is complex, similar to a Tesla, as it integrates most secondary systems and adjustment functions. From adjusting door mirrors to controlling ventilation settings, everything is done through the touchscreen menu.

Initially, it may seem overwhelming and potentially distracting. However, with time, users will become familiar with which functions can be adjusted while driving and which need to be set before departure.

One positive aspect is that the large display for the front passenger is designed not to distract the driver. It also has the option to be turned off when not in use.

The HiPhi X offers generous space in the first and second rows, while the third row is suitable for adults of average height and below. The overall space is in line with other vehicles in its class.

When it comes to material quality, the HiPhi X may not match the standards of brands like Audi or Range Rover. Nevertheless, considering this is Human Horizons’ first production car developed in just three and a half years, it is an impressive achievement.

The front seats are comfortable and adjustable, and the driving position is more semi-recumbent than upright, giving a unique feel.

The only downside is the limited rearward visibility, which can be improved by relying on the rear-view camera. Fortunately, most owners of this type of vehicle would likely be comfortable using the camera.

Similar to the HiPhi Z, the HiPhi X offers a refined and comfortable driving experience. Despite its size, it handles well on the road and benefits from modern suspension and steering technology. While it may not be an exciting drive, it does a great job of maintaining comfort for the occupants.

Cars

9 Awesome Toyotas Everyone Forgets About

One of the most interesting and impressive Toyotas that often goes unnoticed is the Mega Cruiser. It can be considered as the Japanese version of the Hummer. Initially designed for military purposes, the Mega Cruiser quickly gained popularity among civilians. Measuring over 16 feet long and 7 feet wide, this truck had enough space for six people and could carry up to 1,650 pounds of cargo. Due to its impressive capabilities, it was commonly used as a remote rescue vehicle. Emergency services also developed several units for their operations. However, many buyers were drawn to the Mega Cruiser simply because it was the largest and most capable off-road truck ever produced by a Japanese manufacturer.

Although the Mega Cruiser was officially sold only in Japan, it can now be found in various international markets where all-terrain trucks are highly sought after. Russia, Australia, and the United States are among the most common countries where these trucks are exported. However, owning one does not come cheap. When it was first launched in 1995, the Mega Cruiser had a price tag equivalent to $233,000 in today’s money. Even today, when they occasionally appear for sale, they can still command a similar price. Production of this SUV continued until 2001, and a total of just over 100 civilian Mega Cruisers were manufactured during that time.

News

How China Became A Dominant Force In The EV Race

The world is shifting to electric vehicles (EVs), but the pace of adoption varies across regions. While the United States has seen an increase in EV sales, the market share remains in single digits. In contrast, Europe has surpassed North America in EV sales, but it is China that has become the dominant force in the EV race. As a country with a massive market and the ability to produce EVs at a rapid pace, China’s adoption of EVs is widespread and quick. This article will explore how China came to be at the forefront of the EV race.

Related: 10 Chinese Electric Cars We’d Love To Drive

So, How Did China Get Here?

classic topcar |Shutterstock””>
classic topcar | Shutterstock
Blue Nio EP9 displayed on a showroom floor

China, once known primarily for its low-cost labor, has become the world’s largest EV market with the most EV models. The country is home to over 100 EV companies that are relatively unknown. How did China come to dominate the EV race? Politics played a significant role. Until 2022, foreign automakers had to form joint ventures with Chinese automakers to operate in China. This requirement promoted technology sharing and helped China gain knowledge in building new cars.

While this policy may seem beneficial only to China, it also benefited foreign automakers, especially German brands. Volkswagen, for example, established its joint venture with SAIC and FAW in China and treated the country as its most significant market. By creating models tailored specifically to China, such as the Lavida, Volkswagen achieved great success in the Chinese market.

However, Chinese entrepreneurs and engineers realized that they were falling behind in internal combustion engine (ICE) technology compared to countries like Germany. To catch up, they decided to invest in EV technology instead. This move allowed Chinese automakers to innovate and establish their own legacy in the EV age. China’s government played a crucial role in promoting EV technology through subsidies, incentives, and tax breaks, resulting in over 6 million EVs sold in China in 2022.

Related: China’s First Electric Supercar Can Do 0-62 MPH In Just 1.9 Seconds

The World Lacks EVs, So China Creates Them

Nio
Rear end of a 2024 Nio ET5 Touring

China chose to invest in EV technology where other countries were still in the early stages. Instead of trying to catch up in ICE technology, Chinese automakers focused on establishing their presence in the EV industry. As early as 2001, EV technology became a priority in China’s economic plans. Subsidies and incentives were provided to companies for producing and developing electric cars. Thanks to these investments and government support, China has become a leader in global EV sales, surpassing other countries.

Related: Is BYD Coming For Tesla’s Crown?

Batteries Make The EV World Go Round

BMW
BMW battery cell coating process

Establishing a local supply chain is crucial for developing a robust EV industry. China has excelled at this, innovating and reducing the cost of EV technology at a rapid pace. While Western companies favored lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries, Chinese companies focused on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which are cheaper and safer. Chinese battery companies have narrowed the energy gap of LFP batteries while keeping costs low.

In addition to advancing battery technology, China also has control over the necessary materials for batteries, including nickel, cobalt, sulfate, lithium hydroxide, and graphite. The country has a well-established battery supply chain, giving it a significant advantage in the global battery market. CATL, one of China’s battery suppliers, dominates global battery supplies, accounting for 34% of worldwide EV batteries.

Related: How BYD’s EV Expansion Could Reshape The American Automotive Landscape

What About Tesla?

Tesla
Front shot of the Tesla Model S Plaid.

Tesla has also benefited from China’s cultivation of the EV industry. The company’s Shanghai Gigafactory enabled local production with a solid supply chain already established in China. Tesla’s success in China has pushed local brands to innovate and compete, leading to an ongoing “price war” in the country’s EV market. Furthermore, CATL, the dominant battery supplier in China, supplies batteries to Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory.

Tesla is even in talks with CATL to build a battery plant solely owned by Tesla, licensing the technology and chemistry from CATL. Ford has also partnered with CATL to build a battery plant in Michigan. Both of these moves have sparked political controversy.

Related: This 1,100 Horsepower Electric Off-Roader From China Can Do One Thing That The Tesla Model X Can’t

What’s Next For China?

Nio
Front three-quarters shot of the Nio EL7 in blue.

It remains to be seen if other countries can replicate China’s success in the EV industry. The United States is making efforts to develop its own EV industry with initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act. Chinese EV startups are expanding to overseas markets, although they may face challenges in cracking the North American market due to politics and consumer perception. However, Chinese brands have found success in Europe by providing affordable EV options that cater to the aggressive EV push in the region.