Citroën’s New Flagship Model: The Electric C5 Aircross
Citroën is set to launch a new version of its C5 Aircross next year, which will become the brand’s flagship model. This new generation of the C5 Aircross will mark the first time the SUV will be offered with an electric powertrain. The French automaker has committed to focusing on main-segment models in the future, leading to the decision not to replace the slow-selling C5 X. However, the SUV variant of the C5 Aircross has proven to be more popular and will continue into the new generation.
The current C5 Aircross, introduced in the UK in 2018, is available with petrol and hybrid powertrains. But for its second generation, it will switch to the STLA Medium platform, which is shared with the Peugeot e-3008 and the Vauxhall Grandland. This platform is designed to accommodate multiple powertrains, including electric, and allows for both front-wheel drive and hybrid configurations.
Citroën boss Thierry Koskas confirmed that the new platform will enable the C5 Aircross to offer an electric powertrain, something the company is eager to provide. The STLA Medium platform has a single-motor version that delivers 207bhp, with a twin-motor variant offering 316bhp. The platform can accommodate either a 73kWh or a 98kWh battery, with the larger battery providing the Peugeot e-3008 with a range of 435 miles.
In addition to the electric powertrain, the new C5 Aircross will also be offered with standard and plug-in hybrid options. This will make it the only model in Citroën’s future lineup to have a PHEV variant. Koskas explained that plug-in hybrids can meet certain market demands for larger cars, but the cost of the battery makes it impractical for smaller models.
Styling cues for the second-generation C5 Aircross are expected to be inspired by the recently launched C3, which features Citroën’s new design language. This suggests a more boxy and expressive design, along with the brand’s new logo. The new model will be positioned above the heavily revised C4, which will be unveiled in the coming months and will also draw inspiration from the smaller C3.
The decision to discontinue the C5 X was driven by its marginal market share in a small segment. While the C5 X may be the flagship model currently, the SUV variant of the C5 Aircross holds a stronger position in the market.
With the upcoming launch of the electric C5 Aircross, Citroën is positioning itself to compete in the growing electric vehicle market. By offering a range of powertrain options, including electric and hybrid, the brand is catering to different consumer preferences and ensuring that it stays relevant in the evolving automotive landscape. The introduction of Citroën’s new design language and logo further reinforces the brand’s commitment to innovation and modernity. As Citroën continues to prioritize main-segment models, the C5 Aircross is poised to become a key player in the brand’s lineup and a symbol of its electric future.
