Buyer’s guide to the Citroen C5 Aircross

Buyer’s guide to the Citroen C5 Aircross

The C5 Aircross appeals to families with its roomy interior and comfortable ride

Like most manufacturers, crossovers and SUVs have become an integral part of Citroen’s range, with its Aircross models taking up the mantle. 

There’s the option of the C3 Aircross or C5 Aircross – the latter option being the most spacious, with a big and roomy cabin that’s ideal for families. A comfortable ride and funky styling also add further to the appeal. 

So if you’re considering a new C5 Aircross, here’s what you need to know. 

What powertrains are available?

Though the range might not be as extensive in the C5 Aircross as in some of its rivals, it still comes with the choice of a petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid. 

Let’s begin with the most affordable option – a turbocharged 128bhp 1.2-litre petrol unit (badged as the PureTech 130). You can choose it as both a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic, and though its power figure doesn’t sound all that impressive, it’s able to get this big SUV to 60mph in around 10 seconds. Citroen also says it will return around 46mpg, with CO2 emissions of 148g/km. 

Up next is the diesel – a turbocharged 128bhp 1.5-litre unit, which again gets the option of a manual or automatic gearbox, with a 0-60mph time also coming along in around 10 seconds. It’s an efficient choice, though – returning upwards of 50mpg, with 130g/km CO2 emissions. 

But when it comes to efficiency, you’ll want the plug-in hybrid model, which combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined 222bhp that allows for a 0-60mph time of 8.5 seconds. A 13.2kWh battery allows for an electric range of up to 40 miles, though, and if you charge regularly there’s scope for very low running costs – Citroen claiming it will return up to 222mpg, with CO2 emissions of just 32g/km that put it in a very favourable company car tax bracket. 

What trim levels are offered?

Four trim levels are available on the C5 Aircross, with equipment highlights and pricing as follows. 

Sense – from £24,355

Even entry-level models come with a generous level of equipment, including 18-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, LED headlights, an eight-inch inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. In terms of safety kit, the Aircross comes with lane keep assist and autonomous emergency braking.  

C-Series – from £25,775

Special-edition C-Series models bring emergency SOS assistance, traffic sign recognition, a reversing camera, front parking sensors, satellite navigation and electric folding mirrors. 

Shine – from £26,335

Shine versions broadly mirror the C-Series models, though actually come with a few less features than the C-Series, with traffic sign recognition being removed. 

Shine Plus – from £28,810

At the top of the range, the Shine Plus comes brimmed with equipment, including part-leather upholstery, Citroen’s renowned Advanced Comfort seats - which offer increased support and cushioning - as well as adaptive cruise control with Highway Assist. An electric driver’s seat and electric boot are also included. 

What about personalisation?

Citroen prides itself on its cars’ personalisation, and the C5 Aircross is no exception. A whole host of colour options are available, while additional ‘Colour Packs’ are available – bringing contrasting to trim to the door protectors, roof bars and lower bumpers. Similar vibrant colours are available for the cabin, too. 

In terms of more conventional optional extras, buyers can choose a ‘Hype Black Ambiance’, which brings black leather upholstery, heated front seats and a massage function for the driver. Park assist and a panoramic sunroof are also available. 

Enquire on a new Citroen C5 Aircross