Citroen C5, The Ultimate Guide to the Features, Models, Pricing & Much More
Looking to buy a new Citroen C5? then welcome to our in-depth guide on this large family car. We will dive into its models, features, engines, reliability, and much, much more.
The Citroen C5 stands out for its exceptional comfort and distinctive design, ideally positioned for families seeking both style and practicality simultaneously.
Known for its hydro-pneumatic suspension system, the C5 offers you a ride quality that is hard to match in its class, smoothing out even the harshest road imperfections.
Reliability is also commendable, with it also winning many awards over its long lifetime in production.
So, whether you are a potential buyer or a car enthusiast, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Citroen C5.
Top Features of the Citroen C5
Innovative suspension system automatically adjusts the firmness of the ride and the height of the car - depending on the road conditions and driving style.
- The seats in the C5 are designed with comfort in mind, using high-density foam and supportive structures to reduce fatigue on long journeys, making it an ideal car for long-distance travel.
- The Citroen C5 comes with a variety of engine types that offer you a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, catering to different driving preferences and needs.
- The cabin of the C5 is roomy and comfortable, providing you with ample space for passengers and a quiet environment for enjoying the journey.
- The C5 offers you significant boot space, making it practical for families, weekend adventurers, or anyone needing to transport large items, such as suitcases, on a family holiday.
Table of Contents
- Short History of the Citroen C5
- Exterior Design
- Interior
- Performance and Efficiency
- Reliability
- The Citroen C5 Models and Variants
- How do the Models Differ From Each Other?
- Dimensions
- Pricing and Warranty
- Citroen C5 Final Thoughts
- Want to Find Out More?
Short History of the Citroen C5
The Citroen C5 first made its appearance in the early 2000s, designed as a mid-size car that offered you a blend of style, comfort, and innovation for the time.
This model was introduced as a successor to the Citroen Xantia and the XM, aiming to compete in the highly contested family car and executive car segments simultaneously.
Second Generation
In 2008, the second generation C5 was launched, showcasing a more robust and premium quality design than its predecessor, which moved the model more upmarket than ever before.
This generation then emphasised improved build quality, a more sophisticated interior, and advanced safety features, reflecting Citroen's commitment to comfort and safety.
C5 Aircross
The introduction of the C5 Aircross in 2017 then marked a shift towards the SUV segment. However, the original C5 saloon and estate models continued.
Throughout its history, the C5 has always offered you a unique combination of comfort, technology, and that French design ethos - making it a distinctive choice in its class.
Exterior Design
The exterior design of the Citroen C5 combines both beautiful design and functionality - setting it apart in the competitive mid-size market.
Its aesthetic is a blend of traditional Citroen design cues and modern trends, creating a visually appealing and distinctive presence on the road.
Front Fascia
The front fascia is characterised by a bold grille that also seamlessly integrates with the sleek headlamps - featuring Citroen's signature LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs).
Car Profile
The C5's profile is then further streamlined, with a flowing roofline and sculpted sides that enhance its aerodynamics, conversely, your range, and convey a sense of motion even when stationary.
Door handles and mirrors
Particular attention has been paid to integrating practical elements, such as door handles and mirrors, which contribute to the car's overall aerodynamic efficiency without compromising on style.
Rear
The rear end is equally well-designed. The rear lights incorporate the latest LED technology, creating a recognisable light signature that improves visibility and safety.
Alloy Wheels
Depending on the model and trim level, the C5 can feature distinctive alloy wheel designs that complement its look and allow you to personalise the car to how you want to have it.
Interior
The interior design of the Citroen C5 is an excellent combination of comfort and modern space layout, reflecting Citroen's longstanding commitment to creating uniquely comfortable driving cabins.
The Cabin
The cabin is designed with an emphasis on spaciousness, ergonomic excellence, and high-quality materials, offering you the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of the outside world while you are on the road.
Seating
Upon entering, you and your passengers are greeted by plush seating that is supportive and comfortable. It features adjustments for optimal ergonomics and is available with luxurious upholstery options, including leather and high-grade fabrics.
Dashboard
The dashboard is a masterpiece of intuitive design. Its sleek, uncluttered layout puts all controls within easy reach.
Infotainment System
Central to the C5's interior is the infotainment system, which seamlessly integrates with the car's various functions and connectivity options - ensuring that you have access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings without distraction.
Soft-touch Materials
The use of soft-touch materials, thoughtful accents, and ambient lighting enhances the cabin's premium feel, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
Practical
Practicality is also a key focus, with the C5 boasting ample storage spaces, including cleverly designed compartments and a generous boot capacity, making it ideal for families and long journeys.
Noise Insulation
Noise insulation is also exceptional, thanks to the use of noise insulation materials that ensure that the cabin remains your quiet haven, further helping to reduce outside noise and distractions of the day-to-day.
Internal features Available
The C5 can come with a lot of internal features available, such as:
- Urban Grey Ambience - featuring grey herringbone fabric & Isabella black leather effect Advanced Comfort seats
Metropolitan Grey Ambience - featuring black Paloma leather & Isabella black and Nixon grey leather-effect Advanced Comfort seats - Hype Black Ambience - featuring Mistral black Paloma leather with perforated chevron design Advanced Comfort seats
- Hype Adamantium Ambience - featuring two-tone black and adamantium leather with perforated chevron design Advanced Comfort seats with multipoint massage and front seat ventilation
- Mechanical driver’s seat with fore/aft adjustment, backrest adjustment, height adjustment, lumbar adjustment and headrest
- Mechanical passenger’s seat with fore/aft adjustment, backrest adjustment, height adjustment, and headrest
Mechanical passenger’s seat with fore/aft adjustment, backrest adjustment, height adjustment, lumbar adjustment and headrest - Electric driver’s seat with memorisation setting, fore/aft adjustment, backrest adjustment, height adjustment, seat angle adjustment, lumbar adjustment, and headrest (Optional on Shine - brought in by Hype Black Ambience & Mistral Black Paloma Leather - [LRFX])
- Electric passenger’s seat with fore/aft adjustment, backrest adjustment, height adjustment, lumbar adjustment and headrest (Optional on Shine - brought in by Hype Black Ambience & Mistral Black Paloma Leather - [LRFX]
- Heated front seats (Optional on Shine - brought in by Hype Black Ambience & Mistral Black Paloma Leather - [LRFX])
Seatback storage pockets (rear of driver’s and front passenger’s seat) Multifunction leather steering wheel with paddle shifters, driving assistance and infotainment control functions - Multifunction heated, grained leather steering wheel with paddle shifters, driving assistance and infotainment control functions Courtesy lighting: front roof light, rear roof light, central console lighting, LED illuminated glovebox and LED boot light
- Interior LED welcome lighting - door handles, front footwells, driver Instrument panel
Performance and Efficiency
The C5 is available with a range of petrol and hybrid engines, offering you a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The suspension system is engineered for a smooth ride, absorbing bumps and providing a comfortable driving experience.
Some models feature the innovative Hydractive suspension, which adjusts the car's ride height and firmness based on driving conditions, further enhancing comfort and performance.
Engine Metrics
| Feature | Plug-in Hybrid PureTech 180 S&S & 80 kW electric motor ë-EAT8 automatic gearbox | PureTech 130 S&S EAT8 Automatic |
|---|---|---|
| Stop & Start functionality | ● | ● |
| Cubic Capacity (cc) | 1598 | 1199 |
| Maximum power bhp (Kw) / RPM | 225 | 129 (96) @ 5500 |
| Maximum torque lb/ft (Nm) / RPM | 184 (250) / 1750 | 170 (230) / 1750 |
| Stop & Start functionality | ● | ● |
| Cubic Capacity (cc) | 1598 | 1199 |
| Maximum power bhp (Kw) / RPM | 225 | 129 (96) @ 5500 |
| Maximum torque lb/ft (Nm) / RPM | 184 (250) / 1750 | 170 (230) / 1750 |
| Max speed (mph) | 145 | 130 |
| Acceleration 0-62mph driver only (secs) | 7.9 | 10.4 |
| Electric range (miles) - WLTP Combined Range & City Range (EAER) | 39.1 - 44.1 | N/A |
| Front Suspension | Front Macpherson strut suspension with double (compression & rebound) Progressive Hydraulic Cushions™ | |
| Rear Suspension | Rear multi-link suspension with double (compression & rebound) Progressive Hydraulic Cushions™ | |
How do the Models Differ From Each Other?
Each Citroen C5 model differs in a number of ways, with some of the main differences being around the inclusion of the following:
| Feature | Citroen C5 Sense Plus | Citroen C5 Shine | Citroen C5 Shine Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
ReliabilityWhen it comes to reliability, the Citroen C5 is classed as a very reliable car. Not only does it have a very long production history, but it is also rated very highly by industry experts, winning many awards showing how reliable of a family car the C5 is. Some of these, for instance, include:
The Citroen C5 Models and VariantsThe new Citroen C5 comes with 3 main models and variants to choose from. These include, for instance:
| ● | ● | ● |
| Unfastened seat belt visual warning system on all seats plus audible warning for driver/front passenger (with presence detection for front passenger) | ● | ● | ● |
| Front inertia reel seat belt with pre-tensioners and force-limiters | ● | ● | ● |
| Five 3-point inertia reel seat belts | ● | ● | ● |
| Outer rear seats with ISOFIX mounting points including top tether | ● | ● | ● |
| In-crash braking (multi-collision braking) | ● | ● | ● |
| Pedestrian protection active bonnet | ● | ● | ● |
| Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with intelligent traction control | ● | ● | ● |
| Hill Start Assist function | ● | ● | ● |
| Tyre under-inflation detection | ● | ● | ● |
| Citroën Advanced Comfort suspension with double (front & rear) progressive hydraulic cushions (ICE versions only) | ● | ● | ● |
| Citroën Advanced Comfort Active controlled suspension with double (front & rear) progressive hydraulic cushions (Hybrid versions only) | ● | ● | ● |
| Height & reach adjustable electric variable power-assisted steering | ● | ● | ● |
| e-Toggle automatic gear selector switch on centre-console | ● | ● | ● |
| Sensitivity setting selector switch - Electric/Hybrid/Comfort/Sport (Hybrid versions only) | ● | ● | ● |
| Electric parking brake | ● | ● | ● |
| Perimetric, volumetric and anti-tilt alarm | ● | ● | ● |
| Remote 4-window opening/closing with plip | ● | ● | ● |
| Electric rear door child locks | ● | ● | ● |
| Deadlocking | ● | ● | ● |
| Coffee Break Alert | ● | ● | ● |
| Dual tone horn | ● | ● | ● |
| Camera Controlled Active Safety Brake, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Speed Limit Recognition and Recommendation, Driver Attention Alert and Cruise Control with Speed Limiter (Sense Plus ICE versions only) | ● | ||
| Radar Controlled Active Safety Brake, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Speed Limit Recognition and Recommendation, Driver Attention Alert and Cruise Control with Speed Limiter (Sense Plus Hybrid versions only) | ● | ||
| Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go function (windscreen camera and central front radar) (Available on Sense Plus ICE & Hybrid versions | ● | ||
| Radar Controlled Active Safety Brake (with enhanced pedestrian & cyclist pickup and able to function at night), Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Extended Traffic Sign Recognition and Speed Limit Recommendation, Driver Attention Alert, Cruise Control with Speed Limiter, Highway Integrated Assist (Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and Lane Positioning Assist), Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist (All Shine [ICE & Hybrid] versions) | ● | ||
| Radar Controlled Active Safety Brake (with enhanced pedestrian & cyclist pickup and able to function at night), Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Extended Traffic Sign Recognition and Speed Limit Recommendation, Driver Attention Alert, Cruise Control with Speed Limiter, Highway Integrated Assist Plus (Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Lane Positioning Assist, Semi-Automatic Lane Change Assist & Anticipated Intelligent Speed Assist), Rear Cross Traffic Alert) (All Shine Plus [ICE & Hybrid] versions) | ● | ||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors and Reversing Camera with Top Rear Vision | ● | ● | |
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors and 360° Camera | ● | ||
| Automatically illuminating LED headlamps with Automatic High Beam Assist (with driver adjustment controls in passenger compartment) | ● | ● | ● |
| LED front daytime running lights | ● | ● | ● |
| LED front indicators (incorporated into daytime running lights) | ● | ● | ● |
| LED fog lights with static cornering function integrated into front bumper apron | ● | ● | ● |
| LED rear lights, high-level LED brake light and LED rear number plate lighting | ● | ● | ● |
| Automatic illumination of headlamps when unlocking | ● | ● | ● |
| Automatic 'welcome' and 'follow me home' lighting | ● | ● | ● |
| Driver information panel with lighting fault indicator | ● | ● | ● |
| Automatic rain-sensitive flat blade wipers with integrated wash function | ● | ● | ● |
| Electronic, heated, black folding door mirrors with integrated LED indicator, LED approach lighting | ● |
Dimensions
The size of the C5 is based on the following dimensions.
| Feature (KG) | Plug-in Hybrid PureTech 180 S&S & 80 kW electric motor ë-EAT8 automatic gearbox | PureTech 130 S&S EAT8 Automatic |
|---|---|---|
| Gross vehicle weight | 2185 | 1905 |
| Mass in service | 1826 | 1528 |
| Kerb weight | 1722 | 1418 |
| Gross train weight | 3535 | 2955 |
| Maximum braked /unbraked trailer weight | 1350/750 | 1050/745 |
| Maximum tow ball weight | 70 | 70 |
| Maximum load bearing distributed across roof bars | 80 | 80 |
Pricing and Warranty
As pricing can change over time, please see our dedicated Citroen C5 page for up-to-date pricing and warranty information.
Citroen C5 Final Thoughts
The Citroen C5 clearly stands out as both a sophisticated and varied mid to large-size family car that meets the needs of a wide range of drivers.
Its blend of design, comfort, technology, and performance all make it a compelling choice in its class, which is clear to see.
Consequently, whether you are looking for a comfortable family car, a reliable daily driver, or a stylish executive saloon, the C5 delivers on all fronts.
Want to Find Out More?
Then why not visit one of our local car dealerships to explore our selection of Citroen C5 models and discover why it might just be the perfect car for you?
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