Citroen C5X: long-distance traveler



Lhe leaders of Citroën want to believe that there is still room on the world automobile market for silhouettes other than the tall ones of the ubiquitous SUVs. Their bet to return to a lower body for the C5X, the new flagship of the chevron brand, is not only dictated by aesthetics.

Slimmer and more efficient than an SUV

Because if the reduction in height effectively allows more advantageous proportions, it above all makes it possible to limit aerodynamic drag and therefore fuel consumption, but also to lower the center of gravity for the benefit of suspension behavior and comfort, which remains the hallmark of Citroën factory for… 75 years and the launch of the 2CV. Significantly lower than a C5 Aircross, the C5X does not however descend to the level of its cousin the 508, in particular because it is placed on large 720 mm diameter wheels which raise its ground clearance and thus facilitate access on board.

Citroën comfort

The break profile bodywork with a sloping roof line guarantees plenty of roominess in the rear seats and a generous boot volume of 545 litres. The 7-inch slab instrumentation is content with the essentials, but it can be supplemented by a head-up display system projected onto the windshield. The driving position is excellent and the seats are pleasantly soft, but lack lateral support. It’s a shame because, as a good Citroën, the C5X is very pleasant to drive and very efficient on winding roads. We must see the effect of the shock absorbers with hydraulic stops which make it possible to reduce the stiffness of the springs for the benefit of comfort, while perfectly controlling the movements of the body. The controlled suspension reserved for the plug-in hybrid model is even more flexible, but it can reveal slight pumping phenomena in comfort mode. Soundproofing is also remarkable, particularly with the laminated side windows (standard in Shine Pack finish).

The plug-in hybrid for companies and urban dwellers

Mechanically, there is no diesel on the program, only two petrol engines (1.2 130 hp and 1.6 180 hp) and a 225 hp plug-in hybrid powertrain for the launch. The official electric range of the latter is 55 km, which allows it to claim a CO2 emission.2 of only 29 g/km and therefore to escape not only the penalty, but also and above all the TVS, which should appeal to companies. In use, this plug-in hybrid version demonstrates performance worthy of a city car in electric mode, of a grand tourer in hybrid mode. But you have to keep in mind that it is only economically and environmentally viable if it is recharged as often as possible to be used in zero emission mode on short daily routes. Large riders should rather turn to the Puretech 130 version which does not fail on the road and has the advantage of a reduced penalty (from 210 to 240 €). The prices of the C5X range from 32,900 to 49,550 euros depending on the finishes and the engines.


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