French carmaker Citroen has been in the Indian market for a few years, but its sales numbers are still small compared to rivals. Now, the company is bringing a new plan, called “Citroen 2.0”, to change its fortunes. This strategy focuses on better products, a bigger sales network, and improved customer service. If done right, it could help Citroen become more relevant and trusted among Indian car buyers.
Current Situation: A Small Player in a Big Market
In 2024, Citroen sold around 7,500 cars in India. This is very low compared to other smaller brands like Nissan, Skoda, and Renault, which sold between 29,000 to 42,000 cars each in the same year. The main reasons for Citroen’s low numbers are:
- Limited showroom presence across the country.
- Lack of popular features in its cars.
- Low brand awareness among Indian customers.
Focus on Better Products
One of the biggest changes in the 2.0 plan is upgrading the existing cars. Citroen’s popular models, such as the C3 Aircross and Basalt, will soon get features that Indian customers love, like:
- Sunroof (currently missing in all models)
- Ventilated seats for comfort in hot weather
- ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) for safety
- Connected car technology for modern driving experience
- Better interiors with premium look and feel
In India, buyers expect a car to offer a mix of comfort, style, and technology at a competitive price. If Citroen adds these features without increasing the price too much, it can attract more customers.
Long-Term Commitment to India
Citroen is not just testing the waters in India; it is here for the long run. The company has already invested ₹5,300 crore in manufacturing, research, and localisation. This means they are making cars in India for Indian needs, which can help keep prices lower.
There are also plans to develop both electric vehicles (EVs) and petrol/diesel models in India. This is important because the Indian market is slowly moving towards EVs, but petrol and diesel still dominate sales. Having both options will make Citroen’s lineup future-ready.
Expanding the Network
Right now, finding a Citroen showroom is a challenge for many buyers. The company wants to increase its network from 80 to 150 touchpoints by the end of 2025.
The aim is to make sure that every customer can access a service centre within 100 km. This is crucial because many buyers in India avoid brands with poor service reach.
Citroen also plans to introduce digital service booking, transparent pricing, and faster repairs, which can help build trust among customers.
Why This Plan Matters
The Indian car market is very competitive. Brands like Hyundai, Tata, and Maruti have strong dealer networks and high brand trust. For Citroen to survive and grow, it must:
- Increase visibility so people know the brand exists.
- Offer value with features and quality that match or beat rivals.
- Provide reliable service to keep customers happy for years.
If Citroen executes this 2.0 plan well, it can improve its reputation and sales numbers. However, the challenge will be to maintain consistent growth for at least 2–3 years.
Conclusion
Citroen India’s 2.0 strategy is a clear sign that the brand is serious about staying and competing in India. With better features, a bigger service network, and long-term investment, the company is trying to fix its weak points.
However, the Indian car market is tough, and success will depend on how quickly and effectively Citroen can implement these changes. If the execution matches the promises, we could soon see Citroen become a stronger player in the Indian automobile industry.
FAQs
What is Citroen’s 2.0 plan?
It is a new growth strategy focusing on better features in cars, expanding the dealer network, and improving customer service.
How many cars did Citroen sell in India in 2024?
The company sold around 7,500 cars, which is much lower than other brands in the same segment.
Will Citroen bring electric cars to India?
Yes, Citroen plans to develop both EVs and petrol/diesel models in India.
Why is network expansion important for Citroen?
Many customers avoid brands without nearby showrooms or service centres. By expanding to 150 touchpoints, Citroen can reach more buyers.
How can Citroen improve its sales in India?
By adding popular features, keeping prices competitive, improving interior quality, and offering better service support.