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Honest John Reviews Citroen

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016) Review

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016) At A Glance

3/5
Honest John Overall Rating
Comfortable and refined, the Citroen C5 has just enough quirks to appeal to fans of the brand, but lags behind some family car rivals in key areas.

+Very comfortable. Fantastic refinement. Well equipped from mid-range models upwards.

-Trails Ford Mondeo dynamically. Patchy interior quality. Confusing dashboard. No hatchback option.

Insurance Groups are between 20–35
On average it achieves 88% of the official MPG figure

The Citroen C5 did a decent job of keeping brand die-hards happy with some quirky traits, while also satisfying more mainstream family car buyers, and company car users, with its clean looks and ease of use. Although always hampered by not being offered as a fleet-friendly hatchback, the saloon and estate were worthy alternatives to the Ford Mondeo and redoubtable Volkswagen Passat. Read on for our full Citroen C5 review.

Comfortable, spacious and slightly baffling, this second-generation Citroen C5 family car, launched in 2008, is at least more interesting than the original model, which appeared to have been styled by stretching out a Citroen Xantia with a giant rolling pin.

Indeed, this Citroen C5’s exterior look is a strong point, with its styling sitting nicely on the fine line between challenging and handsome.

In the cabin it’s not so successful, however, with a dashboard typical of Citroen’s occasional confusing approach to layout.

There are buttons, dials, switches and displays of various shapes, sizes and colours all over the place. Even the steering wheel is a novelty, with a fixed central boss and a rim design that bizarrely seems to encourage ‘eight and four o’clock’ hand placement.

Unlike many rivals that traded comfort for a sense of supposed sportiness, the Citroen C5 unashamedly did nothing of the sort. It’s as softly sprung and quiet as many a luxury car.

If you weren’t staring at two static chevrons on the steering wheel, you could be convinced you were travelling in something more upmarket or even the rare but appealing Citroen C6.

It means that while it’s not the most engaging car to drive, the Citroen C5 was possibly the most comfortable in its class at the time of its launch.

Towards the end of its life, the Citroen C5 became well equipped across the range, with all models getting air-conditioning, cruise control, electric windows all round, electric mirrors and Isofix for child seats.

These are the ones used buyers should aim for.

Fancy a new Citroen? Read our Citroen C5-X review here.

Reviews for Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016)'s top 3 rivals

Renault Laguna
4/5
Comfortable, with reasonable ride. Nicely styled interior. Four wheel steer GT has remarkable handling.
Mazda 6
4/5
Neatly styled, entry-level models a good balance of ride and handling, excellent 2.2-litre diesel engine.
Volkswagen Passat
3/5
Incredibly spacious as a saloon or estate, excellent range of engines and trim levels, comfortable and...

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016) handling and engines

Driving Rating
Relaxed comfort is the focus for this Citroen C5, which makes it ideal for longer drives. It handles adequately without even attempting to match the sporty appeal of some of its key rivals.

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016): Handling and ride quality

Those expecting the Citroen C5 to outdo a Ford Mondeo or Mazda 6 on twisting B-roads will be disappointed.

However, if you want a car to take you where you need to be in hushed comfort, the Citroen C5 is one to consider seriously.

It was probably the most relaxing saloon this side of a Mercedes S-Class at its launch in 2008, because it combines the ride quality of a luxury car with first-rate ergonomics: a comfortable driver’s seat, lots of driving position adjustment, plenty of space between the pedals... that sort of thing.

Citroen also clearly worked hard on other elements that enhance the sense of wellbeing, including keeping noise to a minimum.

There’s very little road or wind noise in a Citroen C5, until you reach much higher speeds, and even the diesel din is kept to a minimum most of the time.

The handling is fine and it grips well in corners without ever feeling sporty or giving much steering feel. It also brakes well and does everything without fuss.

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016): Engines

When it was launched, the Citroen C5 was available with a petrol engine line-up that included a 129PS 1.8i 16V and 145PS 2.0i 16V.

There were also no fewer than four HDi diesel engines – the HDi 110, HDi 138, HDi 173 and HDi V6 208 units – each fitted with a diesel particulate filter system to reduce particulate emissions.

A selection of manual or automatic gearboxes was offered.

The 2.7 V6 HDi became a 3.0-litre unit in late 2009, and Citroen also offered a 1.6 e-HDI engine with an electronically controlled and automated manual gearbox.

This e-HDi engine has 110PS and provided claimed economy of up to 61.4mpg and 117g/km emissions to draw in company drivers when it was new.

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016): Safety

The Citroen C5 does without more modern safety tech such as automatic emergency braking, but lane keep assist was fitted to some trims and warned the driver by vibrating the steering wheel.

All models come with seven airbags, including one for the driver’s knees, emergency brake assist, ESP traction control, ABS anti-lock brakes and Isofix rear child seat mounts.

That was enough to earn the Citroen C5 a five-star Euro NCAP rating when it was new in 2008. Cars in Exclusive trim also came with a tyre pressure monitoring system.

Rear airbags were an option to further protect those in the back seats.

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016): Towing

Most Citroen C5s of this generation can pull an unbraked trailer of up to 750kg.

Hitch it up to a braked trailer and the saloon models are mostly good for up to 1500kg, while the estate can manage a weightier 1690kg with the V6 turbodiesel engine.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
1.6 16V THP 42 mpg 8.6 s 153 g/km
1.6 e-HDi 110 Airdream EGS 61 mpg 12.8 s 117 g/km
1.6 e-HDi 115 Airdream EGS 61 mpg 12.6–12.8 s 117 g/km
1.6 e-HDi 115 ETG6 66 mpg 12.8 s 111 g/km
1.6 e-HDi EGS - 12.8 s 117 g/km
1.6 e-HDi EGS Tourer 61 mpg 12.8 s 117 g/km
1.6 HDi 50–61 mpg 11.6–13.4 s 120–140 g/km
1.6 HDi 115 61 mpg 11.6–11.9 s 120 g/km
1.6 HDi 115 ETG6 66 mpg 12.6 s 111 g/km
1.6 HDi Tourer 50–57 mpg 11.9–14.0 s 129–140 g/km
1.8 16V 36 mpg 12.2 s 188 g/km
1.8 16V Tourer 35 mpg 12.8 s 192 g/km
2.0 16V 34 mpg 10.7 s 198 g/km
2.0 Blue HDi 150 64–67 mpg 9.1–9.4 s 106–110 g/km
2.0 Blue HDi 180 Automatic 64 mpg 8.7–8.8 s 114 g/km
2.0 HDi 47–58 mpg 9.1–11.6 s 129–153 g/km
2.0 HDi 160 55–58 mpg 9.1–9.3 s 129–133 g/km
2.0 HDi 160 Automatic 46 mpg 10.0–10.2 s 163 g/km
2.0 HDi 200 Automatic 46–48 mpg 8.3–8.6 s 155–159 g/km
2.0 HDi Automatic 46 mpg 10.0 s 163 g/km
2.0 HDi Automatic Tourer 46 mpg 10.2 s 163 g/km
2.0 HDi Tourer 46–55 mpg 9.3–12.1 s 133–155 g/km
2.2 HDi 48 mpg 8.3 s 155 g/km
2.2 HDi Tourer 43 mpg 10.4 s 175 g/km
3.0 HDi V6 Automatic 39 mpg 7.9 s 189 g/km
3.0 HDi V6 Tourer 46 mpg 8.6 s 159 g/km

Real MPG average for the Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

88%

Real MPG

22–62 mpg

MPGs submitted

485

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016) interior

Interior Rating
Some useful touches are undermined by the Citroen C5’s perplexing scattergun approach to the dashboard layout, and quality throughout is not as high as you might hope.
Dimensions
Length 4779–4829 mm
Width 1853–2096 mm
Height 1451–1495 mm
Wheelbase 2815 mm

Full specifications

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016): Practicality

The basics are okay, in the sense that the Citroen C5 offers lots of space in the front and rear, plus a good driving position – including some of the most comfortable seats you’ll find in any car.

However, the overall packaging is quite poor.

There’s no hatchback option for a start, which is strange considering that at the time the Citroen C5 was in showrooms, the majority of Vauxhall Insignia and Ford Mondeo models sold were hatches.

So although the rear seats split 60/40, practicality is fundamentally hampered by the tailgate.

It’s also lacking in cubbyhole space, with very shallow door pockets, a small storage space beneath the centre armrest and – worst of all – the classic French glovebox. It’s roughly the size of a jam jar, because Citroen has left the fuse box in there.

It means your Citroen C5 will be cluttered up in no time.

The boot isn’t very big either, with the 439-litre capacity way down on most saloons you care to name, including the Volkswagen Passat, Peugeot 508 and the Ford Mondeo. Worse still, it’s an odd shape, because the massive boot hinges cut into the sides.

Which leaves us with the real Achilles heel of the Citroen C5 experience: the dashboard. A conglomerate of shapes, screens and surfaces, it looks like a dozen separate designers were given their own small section to create, and each tried to outdo the others.

There are 20 buttons on the steering wheel alone, the graphics on the small navigation screen have aged particularly badly and the combined stereo and air-con unit, with its many buttons and LCD display, wouldn’t look out of place on 1994’s best-selling boom box.

The speedometer dials aren’t terribly clear either.

All-in-all, it’s a bit of a jumbled disappointment – night and day compared with the classy simplicity of, say, the Volkswagen Passat’s cabin, and certainly not in keeping with the relaxed tone of the driving experience

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016): Quality and finish

There was a big noise when the Citroen C5 was launched about how this was the French car to beat the Germans when it came to quality.

Strong words, and ones that were not backed up with the reality of the cabin. It does look good, and bits of it live up to expectations, such as the feel of the steering wheel and plush seats.

However, some of the plastics feel too thin and flexy compared with a Volkswagen Passat or Ford Mondeo.

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016): Infotainment

Describing the Citroen C5’s display as infotainment might be stretching things a little, but you got the then-new NaviDrive system, featuring a seven-inch central display screen and voice activation of the built-in GSM telephone, audio system and satellite navigation.

This was only standard on top-spec models at launch, but filtered down to other trims over time.

The Citroen C5 also used controls on the fixed steering wheel centre, providing access to key functions such as the cruise control, radio or telephone.

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016) value for money

Value for Money Rating
As a second-hand purchase, the Citroen C5 is now an affordable choice. Petrol-engined versions are not terribly efficient, so diesels will make more sense for most buyers.

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016): Prices

There is a notable premium for an estate version of the Citroen C5 thanks to its large and useful boot.

As a result, you can expect to pay around £4000 for a 1.6 HDI estate with 80,000 miles on the clock, versus £2500 for a saloon with similar mileage and engine.

The petrol engines are less in demand, too.

A low-mileage, high-spec diesel estate with a full service record from the end of the model’s lifespan can fetch up to £6000.

Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016): Running Costs

The 1.6-litre, 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre petrol engines are likely to offer around 30mpg in mixed daily driving, which compares with official claims in the mid-30s. In town, expect that to drop to around 25mpg.

For most Citroen C5 buyers, the diesels will make more sense, particularly the later post-2015 cars that can still be driven in low emissions zones without any penalty.

The 1.6 HDi claimed 50mpg, while the 2.0-litre was touted as providing 42mpg. Both give about 40mpg in mixed use, while the 2.7-litre (later 3.0-litre) V6 turbodiesel is smooth and refined.

However, it will only provide an mpg figure in the mid-30s at a motorway cruise, as it comes with an automatic gearbox as standard.

Most Citroen C5s of this generation went on the road prior to the introduction of flat rate road tax on 1 April 2017, which is charged at £180 per year at the time of writing.

For cars registered prior to this date, a Citroen C5 1.6 HDi estate will require 12 months’ road tax of £180, while a 2.0 HDi comes in at £240. The V6 versions will pay a heftier £365.

Servicing for the Citroen C5 is no more costly than for any of its rivals, while insurance sits between groups 20 to 35, with most versions around the group 25 mark.

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Citroen C5 (2008 – 2016) models and specs

The base Citroen C5 VTR has a multi-function steering wheel with fixed centre hub, climate control, electric windows all-round, cruise control and a trip computer. It also has a CD player incorporated in the stereo.

Step up to the Citroen C5 VTR+ and you gain alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, height adjustable front seats, sat-nav and an electronic handbrake with hill-start function.

At the top of the pile is the Citroen C5 Exclusive trim that provides electric front seat adjustment, a powered tailgate for estate models and the firm’s excellent Hydractive hydraulic suspension system for an even more supple ride.

Dimensions
Length 4779–4829 mm
Width 1853–2096 mm
Height 1451–1495 mm
Wheelbase 2815 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 1471–1895 kg
Boot Space 439–1462 L
Warranty 3 years
Servicing 12500–20000 miles
Spare Wheel
Standard Steel spare wheel / Space-saving spare wheel
Costs
List Price £17,195–£30,440
Insurance Groups 20–35
Road Tax Bands B–J
Official MPG 33.2–72.4 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult 5
Child 4
Pedestrian 2
Overall 5

On sale until November 2018

Estate
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.0 BlueHDi 150 6speed Exclusive Techno Pack 5dr £27,145 64.2 mpg 9.1 s
2.0 BlueHDi 150 6speed VTR+ Techno Pack 5dr £25,515 64.2 mpg 9.1 s
2.0 BlueHDi 180 Exclusive Techno Pack Auto 5dr £29,560 64.2 mpg 8.8 s
Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.0 BlueHDi 150 6speed Exclusive Techno Pack 4dr £26,020 67.3 mpg 9.4 s
2.0 BlueHDi 150 6speed VTR+ Techno Pack 4dr £24,395 67.3 mpg 9.4 s
2.0 BlueHDi 180 Exclusive Techno Pack Auto 4dr £28,435 64.2 mpg 8.7 s

On sale until April 2015

Estate
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Exclusive Techno Pack 2.0 HDi 16v 160 5dr £26,780 55.4 mpg 9.3 s
Exclusive Techno Pack 2.0 HDi 16v 160 Auto 5dr £28,280 45.6 mpg 10.2 s
VTR Techno Pack 1.6 HDi 16v 115 5dr £22,770 61.4 mpg 11.9 s
VTR+ Techno Pack 1.6 e-HDi 115 ETG6 5dr Auto £24,470 65.7 mpg 12.8 s
VTR+ Techno Pack 2.0 HDi 16v 160 5dr £25,180 55.4 mpg 9.3 s
Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Exclusive Techno Pack 2.0 HDi 160 160 16v 4dr £25,670 57.6 mpg 9.1 s
Exclusive Techno Pack 2.0 HDi 16v 160 Auto 4dr £27,180 45.6 mpg 10.0 s
VTR Techno Pack 1.6 HDi 115 16v 4dr £21,670 61.4 mpg 11.6 s
VTR+ Techno Pack 1.6 e-HDi 115 ETG6 4dr Auto £23,370 65.7 mpg 12.6 s
VTR+ Techno Pack 2.0 HDi 16v 160 4dr £24,070 57.6 mpg 9.1 s

On sale until August 2014

Estate
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Exclusive 2.0 HDi 16v 160 5dr £26,040 55.4 mpg 9.3 s
Exclusive 2.0 HDi 16v 160 Auto 5dr £27,540 45.6 mpg 10.2 s
Exclusive Techno Pack 2.0 HDi 16v 200 Auto 4dr £30,440 46.3 mpg 8.6 s
VTR 1.6 e-HDi 115 Airdream EGS 4dr Auto £22,530 - 12.8 s
VTR 1.6 HDi 16v 115 5dr £21,830 61.4 mpg 11.9 s
VTR+ 1.6 e-HDi 115 Airdream EGS 5dr Auto £23,730 - 12.8 s
VTR+ 1.6 HDi 16v 115 5dr £23,030 61.4 mpg 11.9 s
VTR+ 2.0 HDi 16v 160 5dr £24,440 55.4 mpg 9.3 s
VTR+ 2.0 HDi 16v 160 Auto 5dr £25,940 45.6 mpg 10.2 s
Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Exclusive 2.0 HDi 160 160 16v 4dr £24,930 57.6 mpg 9.1 s
Exclusive 2.0 HDi 16v 160 Auto 4dr £26,440 45.6 mpg 10.0 s
Exclusive Techno Pack 2.0 HDi 16v 200 Auto 4dr £29,340 47.9 mpg 8.3 s
VTR 1.6 e-HDi 115 Airdream EGS 4dr Auto £21,430 - -
VTR 1.6 HDi 115 16v 4dr £20,730 61.4 mpg 11.6 s
VTR+ 1.6 e-HDi 115 Airdream EGS 4dr Auto £22,630 - 12.6 s
VTR+ 1.6 HDi 16v 115 4dr £21,930 61.4 mpg 11.6 s
VTR+ 2.0 HDi 16v 160 4dr £23,330 57.6 mpg 9.1 s
VTR+ 2.0 HDi 16v 160 Auto 4dr £24,840 45.6 mpg 10.0 s

On sale until May 2014

Estate
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Exclusive 2.0 HDi 16v 200 Auto 4dr £30,440 - -
Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Exclusive 2.0 HDi 16v 200 Auto 4dr £29,340 - -

On sale until November 2013

Estate
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Exclusive 2.2 HDi V6 5dr Auto £30,160 46.3 mpg 8.6 s
VTR 1.6 e-HDi Airdream EGS 4dr Auto £22,255 61.4 mpg 12.8 s
Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
Exclusive 2.2 HDi V6 4dr Auto £29,060 47.9 mpg 8.3 s
VTR 1.6 e-HDi Airdream EGS 4dr Auto £21,155 61.4 mpg 12.6 s

On sale until June 2012

Estate
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.6 e-HDi EGS VTR+ 5dr Auto £23,295 61.4 mpg 12.8 s
1.6 HDi 16v VTR 5dr £20,995 56.5 mpg 11.9 s
1.6 HDi 16v VTR+ 5dr £22,595 56.5 mpg 11.9 s
Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.6 16v THP VTR+ 4dr £21,505 42.2 mpg 8.6 s
1.6 e-HDi Airdream EGS VTR+ 4dr Auto £22,195 61.4 mpg 12.6 s
1.6 HDi 16v VTR 4dr £19,895 56.5 mpg 11.6 s
1.6 HDi 16v VTR+ 4dr £21,495 56.5 mpg 11.6 s
3.0 HDi V6 Exclusive 4dr Auto £29,315 39.2 mpg 7.9 s

On sale until July 2009

Estate
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.6 HDi 16v SX £19,295 49.6 mpg 14.0 s
1.8i 16v SX £18,295 34.9 mpg 12.8 s
2.0 HDi 16v SX £20,195 46.3 mpg 12.1 s
2.0i 16v Exclusive Automatic £22,695 - -
2.0i 16v VTR+ Automatic £21,895 - -
2.2 HDi 16v Exclusive £23,995 42.8 mpg 10.4 s
2.2 HDi 16v VTR+ £23,195 42.8 mpg 10.4 s
Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
1.6 HDi 16v SX £18,195 50.4 mpg 13.4 s
1.8i 16v SX £17,195 35.8 mpg 12.2 s
1.8i 16v VTR+ £18,795 35.8 mpg 12.2 s
2.0 HDi 16v SX £19,095 47.1 mpg 11.6 s
2.0i 16v Exclusive Automatic £21,595 - -
2.0i 16v VTR+ £19,295 33.6 mpg 10.7 s
2.0i 16v VTR+ Auto £19,295 - -
2.2 HDi 16v Exclusive Auto £22,895 - -
2.2 HDi 16v VTR+ Auto £22,095 - -

On sale until May 2009

Estate
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.7 HDi V6 Exclusive Auto £26,395 - -
Saloon
Version List Price MPG 0-62
2.7 HDi V6 Exclusive Auto £25,395 - -

Model History

October 2007

Citroen C5 previewed in concept form

Second generation C5 first shown as Airlounge concept and Airplay cabrio concept at Frankfurt Show September 2007. Very good looking.

August 2008

Second generation Citroen C5 launched in the UK

4,780mm long x 1,860mm wide x 1,450mm high. Tourer (4,875mm long). Petrol engines include 127bhp 1.8i 16V and 143bhp 2.0i 16V units,while there are four HDi diesel engines – HDi 110, HDi 138, HDi 173 and HDi V6 208 units – each fitted with a Diesel Particulate Filter System that virtually eliminates particle emissions. Manual or automatic transmissions.

Second-generation fixed-centred controls steering wheel (as C4), with membrane-covered controls, providing easy access to key functions such as the cruise control, radio or telephone. Can also be specified with Citroën’s new-generation NaviDrive system, featuring a 7-inch central display screen and voice activation of the built-in GSM telephone, audio system and satellite navigation.

Metallic suspension features double wishbone layout at the front and multilink set-up at the rear. Citroën’s acclaimed Hydractive 3 Plus self-levelling suspension features springing and damping that adjusts instantaneously to offer a cosseting ride, whatever the road conditions. A soft mode provides optimum comfort while a firmer mode delivers greater body control. A “Sport” mode can also be selected for an even more dynamic ride.

Certain versions can be specified with a driver’s seat back massage function. The front seats are fully adjustable, with either manual or electric controls, while rear passengers benefit from generous amounts of legroom - the absence of a central tunnel ensures a flat floor throughout the rear.

Cruise control and a speed limiter are fitted as standard, while Hydractive 3 Plus versions are equipped with an automatic electric parking-brake and hill-start assist. For ease of parking, the C5 is also available with front and rear parking sensors, as well as a parking gap assistance system that determines the size of any available space and informs the driver.

Citroën safety technology, including up to nine airbags, providing the occupants with reassuring levels of protection in the event of an accident. The stiffened body and cabin structure incorporates upper and lower absorbers at the front end to soak up the energy released in the event of impact. Collapsible pedal assembly.

Static AFS (Adaptive Front Lighting System) function incorporates an additional light source that improves visibility and safety on corners and at junctions. A dynamic AFS option is available on models equipped with Xenon dual-function directional headlamps, further improving visibility to 105˚ at low speeds.

Isofix anchor points on up to three seats, four one-touch electric windows with an anti-pinch function and an electric child-safety lock for the rear doors and windows, all fitted as standard.

All C5 models have a full size spare wheel. Handsome 'Tourer' station wagon on sale in UK from 17-6-2008. Load space 505-litres with split folding rear seats that can be laid completely flat to create a capacity of nearly 1500 litres. Large tailgate, which allows bulky items to be loaded or unloaded with ease. And rear suspension can be lowered for loading or hitching a caravan at the touch of a button in the laod area. prices from £16,695 for 1.8.

June 2009

Citroen released first details of the 3.0 HDi V6

240hp engine to be introduced to the C5 and C6 ranges in summer 2009. The new engine improves fuel economy by 13-17% and reduces CO2 by 12-15%, compared to the current 2.7HDi V6 208hp unit.

Fuel saving features include a piloted alternator that recovers energy during deceleration and braking. The engine also fully complies with future Euro V standards. Mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox, the powerful and efficient unit means drivers can now benefit from up to 38mpg on the combined cycle.

It comes with a Diesel Particulate Filter System (DPFS) for an ultra-clean exhaust, but CO2 emissions are also reduced to 195g/km.

July 2009

The VTR+ model, now appropriately re-named VTR+ NAV

Features Citroën’s fully integrated MyWay navigation system with its easy to read 7-inch colour screen, European mapping, voice guidance, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and live traffic information with route recalculation. The traffic information service - from Trafficmaster PLC - is provided free-of-charge and without subscription. MyWay also provides the driver with auxiliary connectors in the glove box to allow portable media players to be plugged into the car’s audio system.

List prices from £18,795 on the road.

November 2009

Citroen range C5 updated

With new, greener engines including a new BMW co-developed chain cam 1.6i 16V THP 155hp petrol engine which replaced the 2.0i 16V 143hp. Euro V engine with 6-speed manual gearbox and available in VTR+ NAV Saloon.

A new 2.0HDi 16V 160hp diesel replaced 2.0HDi 16V 140hp and 2.2HDi 16V 173hp engines. Euro V rated with choice of a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic and is available on both Saloon and Tourer models, in VTR+ NAV and Exclusive trim. SX trim level is renamed VTR (specification remains unchanged). The integration of a new Bluetooth system with USB box as standard equipment on Exclusive models.

New 1.6i 16V THP 155hp petrol delivers 240Nm of torque at 1400rpm and an 8% increase in power, combined with an 18.5% increase in combined-cycle fuel economy and a 16% reduction in CO2 emissions - down from 198g/km to 167g/km.

The new 2.0HDi 16V 160hp diesel provides 340Nm of torque at 2000rpm and - in comparison to the out-going 140hp manual C5 Saloon - a 14% increase in power, a 3% increase in fuel economy (combined cycle) and reduced CO2 emissions - down from 153g/km to 147g/km. For the automatic versions, CO2 emissions are 179g/km on both Saloon and Tourer - reduced from 189g/km and 191g/km respectively. In both cases VED is reduced by £40, from £215 to £175.

  • 1.6HDi 16V 110hp VTR 140g/km £18,195.00
  • 1.6i 16V THP 155hp VTR+ NAV 167g/km £19,795.00
  • 1.6HDi 16V 110hp VTR+ NAV 140g/km £19,795.00
  • 2.0HDi 16V 160hp VTR+ NAV 147g/km £21,195.00
  • 2.0HDi 16V 160hp Auto VTR+ NAV 179g/km £22,695.00
  • 2.0HDi 16V 160hp Exclusive 147g/km £22,095.00
  • 2.0HDi 16V 160hp Auto Exclusive 179g/km £23,595.00
  • 3.0HDi V6 240hp Auto Exclusive 195g/km £27,295.00

TOURER

  • 1.6HDi 16V 110hp VTR 140g/km £19,295.00
  • 1.6HDi 16V 110hp VTR+ NAV 140g/km £20,895.00
  • 2.0HDi 16V 160hp VTR+ NAV 149g/km £22,295.00
  • 2.0HDi 16V 160hp Auto VTR+ NAV 179g/km £23,795.00
  • 2.0HDi 16V 160hp Exclusive 149g/km £23,195.00
  • 2.0HDi 16V 160hp Auto Exclusive 179g/km £24,695.00
  • 3.0HDi V6 240hp Auto Exclusive 195g/km £28,395.00

October 2010

Upgraded for 2011 Model year

Changes include a distinctive new LED light signature, darker tinted rear light clusters, re-homologated engines and the introduction of the Company’s innovative new eTouch Emergency & Assistance System.

The model upgrades apply to both Saloon and Tourer versions and are available from November 2010.

Standard specification across both the C5 Saloon and Tourer ranges, specially designed LEDs have been neatly integrated into the headlights to give the model a distinctive new visual signature. The rear light clusters also benefit from a new ‘Dark Crystal’ treatment with clear glass in the central section. The headlamps retain all their existing functionality and the models safety-enhancing cornering lights remain standard specification across the range.

The Citroën C5 range now benefits from a full Euro 5 compliant engine line-up with the introduction of the 1.6HDi 110hp Euro 5 to replace the Euro 4 version. The 1.6i THP 155hp petrol engine - available in Saloon form with VTR+ NAV trim - and the 3.0HDi V6 240hp Auto Exclusive (Saloon and Tourer) have been re-homologated and now offer improved fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions.

Combined cycle fuel economy increases from 39.8mpg to 42.2mpg and 38.2mpg to 39.2mpg respectively. CO2 emissions are also down 14g/km and 6g/km respectively, resulting in reduced BIK tax rates for both models (down 3 bands for the THP 155 and down 2 bands for the HDi V6). The first year VED for the THP 155 model changes from band H to band G.

Standard specification on all C5 Exclusive models, customers now benefit from the introduction of Citroën’s new eTouch Emergency & Assistance System. This innovative service automatically or manually makesemergency calls and allows manual assistance calls - using a built-in SIM card - for a rapid response in the event of an accident or if the car is immobilised. Citroën’s eTouch system also allows drivers to consult information online at their ‘MyCITROËN’ personal space, which allows them to monitor their vehicle’s maintenance requirements and to receive advice on improving fuel economy. These services are free and available 24-7.

C5 SALOON

CO 2 Emissions

January 0001

(g/km)

Combined Cycle

January 0001

Fuel Economy (mpg)

 ‘On The Road'
R.R.P
1.6HDi 110hp VTR 129 56.5 £19,195.00
1.6i THP 155hp VTR+ NAV 153 42.2 £20,795.00
1.6HDi 110hp VTR+ NAV 129 56.5 £20,795.00
2.0HDi 160hp VTR+ NAV 139 53.3 £22,195.00
2.0HDi 160hp Auto VTR+ NAV 179 41.5 £23,695.00
2.0HDi 160hp Exclusive 139 53.3 £23,295.00
2.0HDi 160hp Auto Exclusive 179 41.5 £24,795.00
3.0HDi V6 240hp Auto Exclusive 189 39.2 £28,495.00
C5 TOURER

CO 2

January 0001

Emissions (g/km)

Combined Cycle

January 0001

Fuel Economy (mpg)

 ‘On The Road'
R.R.P
1.6HDi 110hp VTR 129 56.5 £20,295.00
1.6HDi 110hp VTR+ NAV 129 56.5 £21,895.00
2.0HDi 160hp VTR+ NAV 139 53.3 £23,295.00
2.0HDi 160hp Auto VTR+ NAV 179 40.9 £24,795.00
2.0HDi 160hp Exclusive 139 53.3 £24,395.00
2.0HDi 160hp Auto Exclusive 179 40.9 £25,895.00
3.0HDi V6 240hp Auto Exclusive 189 39.2 £29,595.00

July 2012

Citroen updates the C5

The Citroën C5 now features the brand’s new chevrons and also gains the option of 17-inch ‘Egée’ alloy wheels on Exclusive models and a new pearlescent body colour - ‘Guaranja Brown’. Citroën C5 Exclusive models are available with a new part-leather upholstery and new interior design components.

It can be specified with a new eMyWay satellite navigation system combined with a Connecting Box - jack socket, USB port and Bluetooth - as part of a new Techno Pack option. On the C5 Tourer, the eMyWay system can be hooked up to a reversing camera to make parking manoeuvres even safer.

The new Techno Packs are introduced across the entire C5 range. Priced at £700, they offer similar equipment across all three trim levels:

VTR Techno Pack VTR+ Techno Pack Exclusive Techno Pack
16“ ‘Iroise’ alloy wheels 17” ‘Ionian’ alloy wheels 18“ ‘Atlantic’ alloy wheels
Rear parking sensors Rear parking sensors Front parking sensors (Rear parking sensors standard on Exclusive)
eMyWay (includes Connecting Box) eMyWay (Connecting Box standard on VTR+) eMyWay (Connecting Box standard on Exclusive)
Chrome window sills Chrome window sills Reversing camera on Tourer models
Front fog lights

C5 SALOON CO 2 (g/km) MRR OTR PRICE
HDi 115 manual VTR 129 £19,895
e-HDi 115 Airdream EGS6 VTR 117 £20,595
HDi 115 manual VTR+ 129 £21,095
e-HDi 115 Airdream EGS6 VTR+ 117 £21,795
HDi 160 6-speed manual VTR+ 129 £22,495
HDi 160 6-speed automatic VTR+ 163 £23,995
HDi 160 6-speed manual Exclusive 129 £24,095
HDi 160 6-speed automatic Exclusive 163 £25,595
HDi 200 6-speed automatic Exclusive 155 £28,495
C5 TOURER CO 2 (g/km) MRR OTR PRICE
HDi 115 manual VTR 129 £20,995
e-HDi 115 Airdream EGS6 VTR 117 £21,695
HDi 115 manual VTR+ 129 £22,195
e-HDi 115 Airdream EGS6 VTR+ 117 £22,895
HDi 160 6-speed manual VTR+ 133 £23,595
HDi 160 6-speed automatic VTR+ 163 £25,095
HDi 160 6-speed manual Exclusive 133 £25,195
HDi 160 6-speed automatic Exclusive 163 £26,695
HDi 200 6-speed automatic Exclusive 159 £29,595

What to watch out for

01-01-0001:

Problem with corrosion of Tyre Pressure Monitoring Valves where TPMS is fitted.

08-11-2013:

Sticking wipers on 5 year old could only be 'cured' by replacing wiper motors at a cost of £600.

15-04-2014:

Power steering rack failures seem to be increasingly common. Spring a leak around the pinion input. Citroen dealers want£1,150 + labour to repalce the rack.

29-01-2015:

Upper door seal failed on 2013 Citroen C5 at A pillar. dealer claimed "fair wear and tear". It isn't fair wear and tear. It's lousy quality.

16-06-2015:

Citroen’s famous 'Hydractiv' suspension is being discontinued by PSA Peugeot Citroen and will self-level its last car when the current C5 sedan concludes its production run.

The discontinuation of the system that dates back to 1955 and combines a hydraulic pump with several nitrogen-filled pneumatic spheres to deliver an unmatched ride quality, is part of CEO Carlos Tavares’ ongoing cost-cutting actions throughout the company.

10-08-2016:

Report of windscreen trim flying off 2011 Citroen C5 at speed. This was subject to an official VOSA safety recall in 2009, but the recall does not apply to C5s build since the date of the recall.

18-05-2017:

Report of Magnetti Marelli satnav failing completely on a Citroen C5. It had run perfectly for 8 years and accepted CD updates, but now will not work at all, so car has also lost rear park assist, radio, CD player, phone, outside temp gauge, etc.

19-05-2017:

Single front wheel TPMS sensor problem reported on 2011 Citroen C5 in New Zealand.

31-08-2017:

Report of wiring fault with 2013 Citroen C5 estate. The engine management & parking brake fault lights come on intermittently, and on three occasions in the last six months the parking brake has stuck on for a minute or so. Car was purchased as a Citroen approved used car in october 2016 at 21k miles and was not then showing the faults. Two Citroen dealers have since failed to remedy the fault, initially replacing the accelerator pedal. The dealer who sold me the car also did this, showing that the fault was there before I bought the car. The second dealer to try to repair the car now says the car needs the main and both secondary wiring looms replacing and has estimated a cost of £3.5k, can't get a part number for the secondary looms, or find the tag that tells them what it is. They say they are also lacking a wiring diagram. They admit they have never dealt with a complex wiring problem before.

21-01-2018:

Report of EGS6 of 2012 CITROEN C5 1.6e-HDi 16v (110bhp) Airdream EGS6 2011MY VTR+ NAV Estate 5d 1560cc refusing to change gear automatically (would change gear by driver selecting the gears). After being parked up subsequent to a 20 mile run, automatic chanbges returned. Likely to be a failing activator or moisture ingress to the activator.