CAN a car really be described as “friendly”?

Citroen certainly thinks so, and has given the tag to its new compact SUV, the chunky C3 Aircross.

It also reckons the car is fresh and colourful, and it’s hard to argue against any of these three descriptions. This is a very likeable motor.

In the overcrowded SUV market, it’s becoming more and more important to stand out from the crowd. The C3 Aircross does just that.

Most customers will opt for the top-end Flair version, which is available with two-tone body and roof colours. There are eight body colours and three roof tones to choose from, in addition to four colour packs, so you can choose your new pal to look more-or-less how you would like it. In total, there’s a mind-boggling 85 colour combinations to choose from.

There’s a decent choice of engines, too, with my preferred option being the three-cylinder 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol version producing 110hp. These three-cylinder engines are becoming increasingly common place in small to medium-sized cars and in this case you get decent performance and average fuel consumption of about 50mpg.

I tried out the petrol engine mated to automatic transmission and the 1.6-litre turbo diesel for a couple of relaxed but occasionally challenging drives through the Cotswolds, and my vote goes to the petrol version. This engine is initially quite vocal in the lower gears but settles to become a willing partner that cruises with barely a murmur.

There are four petrol engines and a couple of diesel options with the Aircross, so you should find something to suit your preferences.

The entry price of £13,995 for the Touch trim level, rises to about £17,000 for Flair versions, with the Feel specification price sandwiched in the middle. The prices represent a £1,500 dividend on the regular C3.

With the slogan “inspired by you”, Citroen has focused sharply on design and comfort. If you are looking for driving thrills, then head elsewhere.

So key to its attractiveness is the ambience of the cabin that Citroen offers a choice of five interior design packages to suit your needs and preferences. The company really has gone the extra mile to mix materials and moods.

Replacing the C3 Picasso MPV, it is the most spacious and versatile SUV in its class with 16 or 17-inch alloy wheels, ground clearance of 17.5cm and skid plates which indicate that – with the advantage of an optional grip control system and hill descent assist– it can handle a bit of rough stuff but is perhaps best steered away from the depths of a forest.

The two-tone looks of the Flair models are certainly striking and give the impression that your new-found chum will be fun to be around.

The striking wheels, the LED lighting, the air of robustness, excellent visibility, raised bonnet profile, cheeky faux Venetian blinds at the rear and the striking chevrons make for a compelling package.

It’s the same on the inside, where you will find not only comfortable seating and a well laid-out dashboard but best-in-class rear passenger space, sliding and tilting rear seats and 2.4 metres maximum load length. The boot offers 410 litres of load space, with lots more available with the rear seats folded down.

There are 12 driving aids available, including head-up display, high beam assist and park assist, plus some very tempting options such as a glass panoramic sun roof and wireless phone charging to complete the connectivity package.

Overall, this is a car that has no pretensions about offering excitement but is beautifully designed in a cheeky sort of way.

I have an idea that the C3 Aircross if going to make lots of friends.