2025 Citroen e-SpaceTourer Review: A Practical Electric MPV with Indian Potential

The 2025 Citroen e-SpaceTourer represents a unique opportunity for India’s evolving automotive market. Positioned as a large, versatile electric MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), it has the potential to bridge a critical gap between mainstream MPVs and full-size passenger carriers. With shifting trade dynamics and India–UK Free Trade Agreements (FTA) expected to reduce import duties in the coming years, this electric van could find a promising space in the country’s premium fleet and hospitality segment.

Citroen’s Entry into India: Lessons from the C5 Aircross

When Citroen entered India in 2021 with the C5 Aircross, it faced challenges despite offering excellent comfort and unique styling. The biggest drawback was its imported CBU (Completely Built Unit) status, attracting customs duties of more than 100 percent. Priced around Rs 40 lakh, sales remained limited to just about 1,200 units since launch.

The newly updated C5 Aircross, launched globally in 2025, is unlikely to arrive in India for the same reasons costlier pricing, homologation hurdles, and an unfavourable rupee euro exchange rate. Hence, Citroen has been focusing more on locally manufactured models like the C3 Aircross for mass appeal.

Short Summary

The Game-Changer: India–UK Free Trade Agreement

A historic FTA between India and the UK could transform the equation for Citroen. The deal aims to:

• Reduce import duties on ICE vehicles from 110% to 30% in the first year.
• Provide EVs a 60% duty reduction, though phased in after five years.

The catch is that only cars priced above £40,000 qualify. Currently, the e-SpaceTourer sits just below this threshold, but rising costs and updated trims could push it above, making it eligible.

This creates a long-term opening for Citroen to consider the e-SpaceTourer for India, especially in commercial transport, corporate shuttles, and luxury hospitality fleets.

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The Citroen e-SpaceTourer is a function-first product, built on the Stellantis Dispatch van platform.

Key Dimensions (XL Variant):

• Length: 5,331 mm
• Width: 1,920 mm
• Height: 1,890 mm
• Wheelbase: 3,275 mm

Unlike SUVs, it does not aim for sleek aesthetics. Instead, it focuses on maximizing space and utility. Its design may not appeal to individual family buyers but makes strong sense for hotels, tour operators, and corporate mobility providers.

Interior and Features

The e-SpaceTourer’s interior is its biggest selling point. Configurable from 6 to 9 seats, it can adapt to both personal and business needs.

• Third-row comfort: Rarely seen in MPVs, the third row here is as comfortable as the second row, with ample headroom and knee room.
• Seating versatility: Sliding, folding, and removable second and third rows create a massive 4,000 litres of cargo space.
• Comfort options: Captain seats, reclining third-row seats, and even optional massage seats enhance premium appeal.
• Technology: A modest 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB charging, and digital power meter.

The cabin focuses on durability over luxury, with hard-wearing plastics and functional design, suitable for commercial use.

Powertrain and Range

The e-SpaceTourer is powered by a 75kWh lithium-ion battery paired with a 138hp electric motor, producing 220Nm torque.

Technical Specs:

• Gearbox: 1-speed automatic
• Drive layout: Front-wheel drive
• Range: 348 km (WLTP claimed)
• Charging:
  • 100kW DC Fast Charging: 5–80% in 46 minutes
  • 11kW AC Wall Box: 0–100% in 7.5 hours

Performance is adequate, not sporty. It is designed for smooth urban driving and long-distance passenger movement rather than spirited driving.

Ride Quality and Handling

In true Citroen tradition, the ride quality is compliant and comfortable at low to medium speeds. However:

• Positives: Plush ride, minimal fatigue on long journeys.
• Negatives: Pronounced body roll in corners, noticeable weight due to the heavy battery pack.

It excels in passenger comfort, which is the key requirement for its target segment.

Market Fit in India

The Indian market has a gap between the Toyota Innova Crysta (7-seater) and Force Urbania (15+ seater). The e-SpaceTourer could fill this vacuum with its 9-seater premium offering.

Segments where it can thrive:

• Luxury hotels and resorts for airport transfers.
• Premium fleet operators offering corporate shuttle services.
• High-net-worth individuals seeking electric chauffeur-driven mobility.

If launched with FTA duty benefits, it could be priced below Rs 50 lakh, making it an attractive alternative to diesel-powered fleet MPVs.

FAQs

Q1. What is the seating capacity of the Citroen e-SpaceTourer?

It offers 6, 7, 8, and 9-seat configurations, with sliding and removable seats for flexible use.

Q2. What is the battery range of the e-SpaceTourer?

The 75kWh battery delivers a claimed range of 348 km on the WLTP cycle.

Q3. How fast can it charge?

With a 100kW DC fast charger, it can go from 5–80% in just 46 minutes. An 11kW AC charger takes around 7.5 hours for a full charge.

Q4. What will be the expected price in India?

If FTA duty cuts apply, it could be priced under Rs 50 lakh, making it competitive for premium fleet operators.

Q5. Is it suitable for private buyers?

While possible, it is more suited to commercial fleet, corporate, and hospitality use due to its size and design.

Verdict

The 2025 Citroen e-SpaceTourer combines practicality, comfort, and electric mobility in a package tailor-made for commercial and hospitality needs. While its duty benefits may take years to materialize, the opportunity exists for Citroen to establish a strong foothold in a niche but growing segment.

If priced right, the e-SpaceTourer could become a go-to choice for premium fleet buyers in India, especially as businesses and luxury operators push for sustainable transport solutions.

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