Quick Highlights:Euro-spec 2026 Citroen eC3 spied testing in Bengaluru with minimal camouflage.Likely new-gen model: two battery packs (30kWh & 44kWh) and 113 PS motor.Expected higher ground clearance and localization for India.Possible aggressive pricing around ₹10-12 lakh to rival Tata Tiago EV.2026 Citroen eC3 Spied in India: New-Gen Electric Hatchback Could Replace eC3X PlansCitroen India appears to be entering a period of strategic recalibration. After the company’s initial C-Cubed strategy delivered lower-than-expected results, the brand has shifted focus through its Citroen 2.0 strategy. This new approach prioritizes features, technology, and more globally aligned models. The shift is already visible with the recent launch of X versions of the Basalt and the Aircross SUV. Now, a fresh set of developments suggests that Citroen may be preparing a major overhaul of its electric portfolio as well.A Euro-spec Citroen eC3 has been spotted testing in Bengaluru, strengthening speculation that a new-generation version of the company’s entry-level EV is nearing readiness. The car was seen wearing partial camouflage and sporting temporary red number plates from Bengaluru Central RTO. While the Indian market previously received a cost-optimized version based on the ICE-derived C3 platform, this test mule is the global-spec eC3 that made its debut in October 2023.Euro-Spec eC3 Testing in India: What the Spy Shots RevealThe test vehicle was finished in a striking dual-tone red and black exterior. Only the Citroen logo was camouflaged, leaving the overall body and design completely visible. This is in sharp contrast to previous Citroen India prototypes, which were usually covered in heavy camouflage ahead of launch. The near-uncovered state suggests that Citroen may not be preparing this exact model for the Indian market. Instead, it may be using the Euro-spec vehicle for platform testing, validation work, or evaluation of new technology modules.The styling of this model reflects Citroen’s new global design language, also seen on the European C3 Aircross. This includes a more upright stance, a stronger SUV-like profile, and contemporary lighting design. The Indian eC3, on the other hand, continues to use the older design language derived from the petrol-powered C3 hatchback.Given the company’s past track record, the minimal camouflage indicates that Citroen is unlikely to release this exact Euro-spec variant in India. However, the technology being tested could very well find its way into the brand’s local products.ADAS and Tech Validation: The Real Purpose Behind This Test?The Indian automotive market is rapidly embracing ADAS features, with both mass-market and electric vehicles increasingly adopting driver-assistance systems. Citroen may be using this Euro-spec eC3 as a testbed for ADAS-related validation, autonomous functions, safety tech calibration or new connected features. If successful, these developments could eventually be deployed across Citroen’s India lineup, including the C3, eC3, Basalt X and Aircross X.Citroen has struggled to consolidate its presence in India, often ranking low on monthly sales charts. Unlike Renault’s early success with the Duster, Citroen lacked a breakout product that could establish a strong brand identity. The company focused on high localization and cost-cut platforms like the CMP skateboard to price its models aggressively, but these vehicles did not command the aspirational value that Indian buyers seek.This recent testing activity could signal that the brand is preparing to bridge the gap between cost-effectiveness and global appeal by upgrading its technology suite for future models.New-Gen eC3 Likely to Replace Plans for the eC3XCitroen has already given the “X” treatment to the Basalt, C3 and Aircross, but the same may not happen for the eC3. Several indications suggest that the company might skip developing an eC3X altogether. Instead, the spotted test vehicle hints at an all-new generation of the eC3 being readied for global and possibly Indian markets.A separate sighting of an eC3 prototype with heavy camouflage in Bengaluru further strengthens this assumption. This heavily camouflaged unit appeared quieter — confirming that it was electric — and carried revised proportions, supporting the idea of a new-gen redesign rather than a simple facelift or extension variant.2026 Citroen eC3: Expected Powertrain, Range and SpecsThe 2026 version of the eC3 is expected to offer two battery options:30 kWh battery pack44 kWh battery packBoth will likely use air-cooled systems. A single electric motor is expected to produce 113 PS of power and 125 Nm of torque , similar to the version sold in Europe. While the torque numbers may seem modest compared to typical EV specs, the instant torque delivery at low speeds promises useful real-world performance comparable to modern small turbo-petrol cars.According to preliminary estimates:The 30 kWh version will deliver around 320 km of driving range.The 44 kWh version may push this up to 450 km , giving it class-leading efficiency among small EVs.Dimensionally, the eC3 measures 4015 mm in length, 1755 mm in width, and 1567 mm in height , with a 2540 mm wheelbase . To qualify for India’s sub-4-metre tax benefits, Citroen may trim the length slightly for local production. Additionally, the Euro-spec eC3 has about 163 mm of ground clearance , but for India, a bump to around 180 mm seems likely to help the brand market it as a compact SUV.The test mule was equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels , but Indian variants may use 16-inch wheels for cost management on lower trims.Expected Pricing Strategy: Citroen May Go AggressiveCompetition in India’s electric vehicle market is intensifying, driven mainly by Mahindra, Tata and MG. Citroen has recently shown that it can pull off surprisingly aggressive pricing, as seen with the C3X’s introductory price of ₹4.80 lakh. This approach could help the brand position the new eC3 strongly against rivals.The Tata Tiago EV currently starts at ₹8.0 lakh, with the long-range variant costing ₹10.14 lakh. Considering Citroen’s larger battery pack and size advantage, a starting price around ₹10-12 lakh for the new-gen eC3 seems realistic. Even at this price, the vehicle would offer more space, stronger road presence and greater comfort than its closest competitors.ConclusionWhile the Euro-spec 2026 Citroen eC3 spotted in Bengaluru may not launch here in its current form, it signals a major transformation underway in Citroen’s electric roadmap for India. The company seems to be testing key technologies, validating a fresh platform and preparing for a generation shift that could make the eC3 far more competitive.With improved range, modern styling, updated interiors and potentially ADAS features, the new-gen eC3 could position Citroen more strongly in the fast-evolving Indian EV space. More concrete details are expected to surface in the coming months.