Citroen C5 Aircross: new "Frenchman" in the old way

In the automotive industry, competition has always been the driving force behind innovation and development. One of the most dynamic market segments is the class of compact crossovers. Japanese manufacturers (Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Mitsubishi) remained leaders in it for many years. However, with the advent of the Citroen C5 Aircross, the situation may change dramatically.


The Citroen C5 Aircross is not the brand's first foray into C/D-SUV vehicles. Past attempts such as the C4 Aircross and Citroen C-Crosser were based on Mitsubishi platforms and built in traditional scenarios: naturally aspirated engines, all-wheel drive. However, the new C5 Aircross goes beyond.


For the first time, the updated model was shown as a concept back in 2015. A few years later, the novelty appeared on sale in China, and then came to the Russian market. Let's see if this car can withstand "Japanese dominance", and also examine the cost, performance and features.

Packages and prices

The model is offered in several variations with 2 motors and transmissions. So each buyer can choose the best option according to their preferences and needs. On sale you can find the Citroen C5 Aircross in the following versions:

✅ LIVE
✅FEEL
✅SHINE

The starting equipment is LIVE. Many useful options are initially available in it, such as: RNS suspension, 6 airbags, stabilization system, cruise control, 2-zone climate control, parking sensors.


The car is equipped with a heated driver's seat and front passenger, a color LCD display, as well as 8-inch multimedia with support for modern Android Auto and Apple CarPlay interfaces.

This variation of the crossover is equipped with light-alloy 17-inch wheels. Prices in the LIVE configuration start at $ 26,3 thousand (2,5 million rubles) for the version with a 1,6-liter petrol turbo engine and 165 hp. with., as well as a 6-speed automatic transmission. For the version with a 1,5 liter turbocharged diesel engine. for 130 "horses" and an "8-mortar" automatic transmission, about $ 27,5 thousand (2,7 million rubles).

The next equipment is the FEEL model. In this version, the crossover is additionally equipped with a Grip Control system, assistants when descending a slope and a keyless entry function with engine start by a button. In addition, front and rear parking sensors, a rear view camera are added. Tinted windows, Silver exterior trim package, 18-inch wheels are installed here by default.


Prices for the Citroen C5 Aircross FEEL start at $27,5 thousand (2,7 million rubles) for the version with a 1,6-liter gasoline engine. (165 hp) and 6-speed automatic transmission. For the 1,5L turbodiesel variant. (130 hp) and automatic transmission for 8 gears, the price starts at almost $ 28,7 thousand (2,8 million), and the version with a 2,0 liter diesel. (180 hp) and an 8-speed automatic transmission has a price of $ 30,9 thousand (2,95 million rubles).

The most advanced equipment is SHINE. It provides a wide range of additional options for maximum passenger comfort and safety. These include:

✅ lane keeping system
✅ blind spot monitoring
✅ Advanced Comfort seats
✅ leather upholstery
✅ warning and emergency braking system in the city
✅ wireless charging for smartphones
✅ Full LED headlights and more

The SHINE package is only available with the 2,0L turbodiesel. for 180 l. With. and 8-speed automatic. Prices for this option start at $33 (3,2 million).


Today, in the secondary market, you can find many offers at an affordable price for a crossover - from 2,8 million rubles for a good package and a mileage of about 50 thousand.

Thus, the new Citroen C5 Aircross offers potential buyers a wide range of trim options. Everyone can find a suitable one that fully meets his wishes.

Interior and exterior

The new crossover combines modern design, high levels of comfort and advanced safety technology, making it an attractive choice in the market.

From the point of view of appearance, the car turned out to be quite traditional - without pretentious and awkward elements. At the same time, it turned out to be elegant, powerful and dynamic. Special two-level optics gives out that the car belongs to the Citroen concern, there are additional decorative elements and body protection. In terms of dimensions, the Citroen C5 Aircross turned out to be:

✅ 4500 mm long
✅ 2099 mm wide
✅ 1695 mm in height
✅ 20 cm clearance

More interesting details meet passengers inside the car. One of the key features of the cabin is a large digital instrument cluster. It offers an extensive selection of tabs, allowing you to customize the information to your preferences.


The driver is provided with a comfortable multifunctional steering wheel and a large screen of the multimedia system. Particularly noteworthy are the stylish air ducts that add a touch of futurism to the interior. The shift lever is shaped like a sports car.

The Advanced Comfort seats in the Citroen C5 Aircross offer impressive legroom and headroom. Inside the rear there are 3 full-fledged separate places that can move forward and backward. However, some limitations, such as the lack of a center armrest and heating for rear passengers, can be a small drawback.

Despite the initial positive impression, attentive users may note significant disadvantages. A heated steering wheel and hard plastic on the vast majority of the dash are details that could add more comfort and luxury to the interior.


The trunk of the Citroen C5 Aircross deserves special mention. A huge opening (for 580-720 liters) and an electric lid with touch opening provide ease of use. This makes the trunk functional and easily accessible for everyday tasks.

Driving characteristics Citroen C5 Aircross

As mentioned earlier, the car is offered in only a few versions: with a 1,6 petrol engine with 150 “horses” and a 6-speed automatic transmission, as well as a 2.0 diesel (180 hp) and an automatic 8 gears.

He is a "co-platform" Peugeot 3008 and 5008 - EMP2. But there were some innovations. Worthy of special attention in this model is the Progressive Hydraulic Cushions hydrodynamic suspension.

The key difference from traditional stances is that PHC dampens impact energy extremely effectively, protecting against painful breakdowns. During compression and rebound, the stock of the car does not rest against the buffers, but enters the hydraulic dampers, which is why a similar “smooth” effect of passing bumps and other bumps on the road is achieved.


Unfortunately, the owners note that the Citroen C5 Aircross has some problems in terms of handling. When cornering, rolls are very noticeable, and during sharp acceleration or braking, passengers clearly feel the “sagging” of the car to the front or rear, respectively. The steering wheel also seems empty, especially in the center.

The car practically “dissuades” the owner from fast and frisky driving on the roads, even though the engine allows (it accelerates to 100 km / h in 9,4 seconds). It is great for a soft and leisurely "walk", including on public roads and off-road.