2.0 HDi 160bhp VTR+Nav Saloon

Quiet, comfortable, reliable and reasonably economic cruiser

As my 3 year ownership comes to an end, I look back fondly on what I consider to be an under-rated car. I bought my C5 as an ex-demonstrator with 4000 miles and it now has done 31000. It has only returned to the garage for servicing and manufacturer's recalls, being totally reliable and it sailed through it first MoT. Getting a comfortable driving position is easy and all switches fall to hand. Comment is made about the number of switches on the fixed steering wheel boss, but take the trouble to read the manual and they are easy and convenient to use. I have had no problems at all. The ride is very quiet and comfortable at all speeds and the 2.0 HDi engine has plenty of power and torque for every situation. The car will not handle like a sports car, because it is too large and heavy, but you can still make good progress on back roads - enough for all but the boy racers. My main criticism of the car is that it is difficult to judge its length when reversing what is a long car (sensors are needed) and the clutch on my car is heavy. The rear seat accommodation is a bit cramped too for a car of its size. Apart from that, the news is all good. I get between 40 and 49 mpg on day to day driving, depending on road type and how enthusiastically I have been driving and on a long run on dual carriageway and A roads I achieve just over 52mpg. I have been driving for 40 years and the C5 has been the best of the 18 cars I have owned in that time. Whenever I have returned to the C5 after having driven another type of car, I always appreciate its quiet, comfortable environment.

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