What sets the Citroën C5 Aircross apart from its competitors in the mid-sized SUV market? Well, for one, it doesn’t conform to the typical SUV conventions. While it offers practicality and versatility, it doesn’t have independent suspension or four-wheel drive. But don’t let that deter you, because the C5 Aircross has plenty of other features to offer.
The C5 Aircross first entered the UK market in 2018 with a range of engine options, including petrol and diesel. However, as customer preferences changed, Citroën made some adjustments. In 2020, they withdrew the 2.0-litre BlueHDI 180 diesel engine and the conventional 1.6-litre petrol engine. In their place, they introduced a 1.6-litre plug-in hybrid engine and, towards the end of 2023, a new mild-hybrid engine powered by a modified version of the 1.2-litre Puretech petrol engine.
The new mild-hybrid engine is an important addition for Citroën’s parent company, Stellantis, as they plan to roll out this powertrain across their entire brand portfolio. The C5 Aircross is just one of the models benefiting from this new technology.
In terms of design and styling, the C5 Aircross stands out on the road with its high bonnet line, sweeping grille, and distinctive headlight treatment. However, its architecture is not particularly innovative, as it shares the same platform as its Stellantis cousins. The car is primarily front-wheel drive and offers three- and four-cylinder engines in petrol and diesel options.
One of the standout features of the C5 Aircross is its suspension system. Citroën has developed Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension, which aims to provide superior ride quality compared to its rivals. The suspension system includes hydraulic bump-stops that replace traditional rubber ones, resulting in a softer ride and less discernible rebound.
The C5 Aircross also offers Citroën’s Grip Control electronic traction management system, which provides additional rough-road readiness and a ground clearance of up to 230mm. This system works in conjunction with different driving modes for various conditions, such as sand and snow.
Inside the cabin, the C5 Aircross offers a funky and functional design. The seats are comfortable, although some testers found them lacking in support. The interior features a mix of materials and finishes, giving it a busy yet pleasing look. The car offers plenty of space in the front and rear, with three individual sliding, folding, and removable rear seats. The boot capacity can extend to over 700 litres with the seats in place.
When it comes to performance, the C5 Aircross is not a sporty SUV. Its engine options provide decent power but are not particularly quick. The diesel engine we tested in 2018 took 9.0 seconds to reach 60mph. The petrol options offer better refinement, especially the hybrids, which offer periods of engine-off running.
The C5 Aircross’s suspension system provides a soft and comfortable ride, although it may struggle to isolate the cabin from sharp inputs and road imperfections in urban areas. The car handles best with measured inputs, as harsh steering, braking, or throttle movements can disrupt its gentle natural frequency.
In terms of running costs, the C5 Aircross offers good value for money. The starting price is below £30,000, making it cheaper than many of its competitors. The plug-in hybrid version offers an electric range of up to 40 miles and delivers better fuel economy when running on petrol. The new mild-hybrid engine also provides improved fuel efficiency compared to the standard petrol engine.
Overall, the Citroën C5 Aircross may not be the perfect SUV, but it offers a unique blend of practicality, comfort, and value for money. Whether you’re looking for a family car or a versatile SUV, the C5 Aircross has plenty to offer.
