The first of MANY Citroen plug-in hybrids, with the brand’s entire range set to be electrified in some form by 2025. This first one is based on the C5 Aircross, a five-seat crossover that sits on. This is the new Citroen C5 Aircross! Even though the exterior styling may help it stand out, there’s no denying it’s just yet another entry into the crowded.
Years ago, Citroën was known for its unique “suspension hydro-pneumatique,” which had certain limits in terms of reliability. Later, it was replaced by the “hydractive” (also a type of hydraulic-pneumatic suspension system seen on the Citroën Xantia, XM, and former C5 sedans and wagons series). Now, the C5 X breaks new ground with the introduction of the so-called Citroën Advanced Comfort active suspension, which is said to take the impression of flying on a magic carpet further, a sensation closely linked to the history of Citroën.
Obviously, the inner space of a car of this size should give a clear impression of roominess. After all, we are talking about the European D-segment/full-size family car here—the C5 X is 4,805-mm (189-in) long and has a wheelbase of 2,785 mm (110 in). The C5 X is equipped with elaborated seats, presented under the Advanced Comfort label, and the space for the second row was particularly cared for. With a 545-liter standard capacity (really good value for a typical big European station wagon), the trunk is just finely suited for the potential necessities of a long holiday trip or practical themes.
There are plenty of advanced features on board, and their purpose is mostly related to the enjoyment and safety of trips. Take the Extended Head Up Display, for instance, as well as a range of driving assistance features that reduce the driver's workload (such as Highway Driver Assist). There's also a new infotainment interface with a central 12-inch HD touchscreen, voice recognition, and a custom configurable display, similar to a tablet.
The plug-in hybrid propulsion system delivers up to 225 PS (222 hp) and has a 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbo gasoline engine at its core. The C5 X can be operated 100% electric for some 50 km (31 miles), and the powertrain allows for a maximum speed in electric mode of 135 kph (84 mph). As for go-anywhere capabilities, the front and rear overhangs look a bit too massive for serious off-roading, but going on rougher terrain should be fun.
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Introduction
What Car? says...
Nouvelle Citroen C5 Crossover
The Citroën C5 Aircross is your archetypical Citroën. The brochure blurb calls it the ‘Comfort class SUV’, and it certainly has the French brand’s famously supple ride.
Plus, those quirky looks could only really come from a company that arguably knows more than any other carmaker about avant-garde design.
The C5 Aircross has pedigree DNA, too. Under its skin you’ll find engines and mechanicals that are shared with the Peugeot 5008, which is one of our favourite large SUVs. They include regular petrol and diesel options, along with a plug-in hybrid.
The Large SUV class is a broad church, covering everything from premium cars, including the Audi Q5 and BMW X3,to seven-seaters such as the Kia Sorento, another favourite of ours. There are also proper off-roaders – the Land Rover Discovery Sport, for example – which can scurry up muddy hills.
The Citroën C5 Aircross is available as a five-seater only and, with no four-wheel-drive option, it doesn’t really do rough-and-tumble stuff. Instead, it tempts buyers with a price that undercuts its 5008 cousin and competes at the more affordable end of the class, vying with the Mazda CX-5 and MG HS and other rivals.
So you already know how many seats it has, that it offers a smooth ride and that you won't need a second mortgage to own one, but what about everything else? Does it have enough room for you and your family, and does it make good financial sense in the long run? These questions and more will be answered over the next few pages.
And don’t forget that our New Car Buying service is here to help when you decide which car is for you; we can get you a huge discount on the Citroën C5 Aircross and most of its rivals, all without having to haggle.
At a glance
| Number of trims | 4see more |
|---|---|
| Number of engines | 3see more |
| Available fuel typesWhich fuel is best for you? | diesel, petrol, hybrid |
| MPG range across all versions | 222.3 - 60.8 |
| Avaliable doors options | 5 |
| Warranty | 3 years / No mileage cap |
| Company car tax at 20% (min/max) | £755 /£1,931 |
| Company car tax at 40% (min/max) | £1,510 /£3,862 |
How much is it?
| RRP price range | £24,355 - £35,850 |
|---|---|
| £21,499 - £33,748 | |
What Car? PCP range | £224 - £374 |
| Save up to £3,601 when you buy with What Car? | |
Our pick
BEST PETROL
Citroen C5-aircross 1.2 PureTech 130 Sense 5dr
Read full version reviewWhat Car? Target Price: 21,499
RRP £24,355Save at least £2,857
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