Citroen's new C4 Aircross will be launched in Europe in the middle of 2012 while the UK will have to wait until the second half of the year to receive the Mitsubishi ASX-based crossover.

The new C4 Aircross is not the first time Citroen and Mitsubishi have come together with the full size C-Crosser SUV the result of the last collaboration. Unlike the C-Crosser though, which did little to disguise its shared lineage, the C4 Aircross is distinctly Citroen styled with elements of the standard C4 hatchback and the premium DS4 giving it a recognisable family look.

Aimed at the class leading Nissan Qashqai the new C4 Aircross has to appeal to the family market and seating for five adults, a boot space of 442 litres and a small turning circle that promises easy manoeuvrability around town mean it stands a good chance.

Entry level models are expected to be front-wheel drive only but higher specification cars will get a selectable four-wheel-drive system. Activated via a switch behind the gear lever, drivers of the Aircross will be able to run in two-wheel drive mode for normal driving and take advantage of increased fuel efficiency. However, should the road ahead become more treacherous the driver can choose from '4wd' mode that automatically distributes available torque between the front and rear axles or 'Lock' for maximum traction in severe conditions.

Engine and trim levels for the UK are yet to be finalised but we would expect to see Citroen's 1.6-litre HDi diesel unit offering a variety of outputs and a 1.6-litre petrol engine with 113bhp. There's likely to be a high level of specification with touch-screen satnav, reversing camera and USB/Bluetooth connectivity all mooted.

Paul Healy - 30 Sep 2011