Citroen C5 2.0HDi Road Test Report

Performance

The UK market will have six engines to choose from – two petrols and four diesels. Those who opt for the petrol will be presented with the choice between the 1.8- and 2.0-litre but the popular choice will no doubt be one of the diesels – ranging from the 1.6- to the 2.7-litre V6. The diesels offer excellent economy and the 2.0 HDi is the best of the bunch. The essence is very much on economy but the C5 will more than cater for most drivers’ needs.

Ride & Handling

The new C5 comes with the choice of two suspensions; the adjustable Hydractive 3+ hydropneumatic system has been used in Citroen’s larger vehicles for many years or the conventional steel springs. The ride is supple on both suspension but the steel springs are silkier. Road grip is very, very good and the Comfort mode offers a sublime drive.

Build Quality & Reliability

Citroen has recently decided to market itself in a very Germanic way but for this to work it has to match the famous German brands in quality and reliability. The interior is engaging, the material used of a high quality, it all looks and feels first-class. One of the most noticeable and impressive features of the new C5 is the almost complete lack of road and wind-noise. The steel suspension will be popular with the fleet sector. The C5 is an extremely well-made, robust and quiet car.

Safety & Security

There are a minimum of seven airbags, stability control, traction control (ESP) plus a lane departure warning system as standard across the C5 range. Rear side airbags are optional. EuroNCAP awarded the new C5 with five stars for adult occupation, four stars for child occupation and two stars for pedestrian protection.

Space & Practicality

The C5 saloon’s rear seats can be folded flat to offer more load capacity while headroom and legroom is ample for four adult passengers, five is a slight squeeze. The C5 is now a saloon rather than a hatchback and some flexibility has been lost.

Ownership & Value

Citroen hopes that the new C5 will have better residual values than the older model (they are aiming for a 10% increase). It is only slightly more expensive than the older model and running costs should be relatively inexpensive. The C5 should become a more attractive leasing option.