► New Citroen C5 Aircross revealed
► Hybrid, PHEV and electric versions
► Comes to the UK in the winter
Citroen’s new C5 Aircross has arrived. The brand’s biggest SUV has been thoroughly overhauled for a new generation, introducing all-new tech on a new platform and a choice if electrified power options.
Unsurprisingly, a lot of the production car’s design comes from the concept that was shown at the 2024 Paris motor show, even including the green colour the car launches in. That said, Citroen has told us that the green won’t actually launch with the real production car, so you’ll have to wait a bit if you’re interested.
Still, though, the new Aircross SUV is a step in a new direction for Citroen design, looking to move the brand’s look away from squishy and cuddly and more angular and techy.
Any cleverness inside?
Citroen is going for big sofa energy inside, making sure all of its Advanced Comfort bits and pieces are front and centre. The ‘zen lounge’ aesthetic (get real, Citroen…) includes the brand’s super soft seating. As well as the seats, Citroen has equipped its Advanced Comfort suspension, too, with hydraulic bump stops over physical ones for better bump absorption.
As for the cockpit itself, the C5 Aircross features a high centre console with wireless charging pads and cupholders, as well as the new ‘cascade’ infotainment screen. Citroen claims that it’s the largest ever fitted to a Stellantis car (not necessarily a good thing, Citroen…) with fixed sections for things like climate control and customisable areas for the bits you use the most. On top of that, Citroen also includes a 10-inch instrument display for the driver, and a head-up display.
As for family space, Citroen says the wheelbase of the new C5 Aircross allows the same knee room as those afforded in the back of the C5 X, and 51mm longer than that of the outgoing C5 Aircross.
Any performance specs?
The new C5 Aircross uses the same STLA Medium platform as cars like the latest Peugeot 3008 and Vauxhall Grandland. That effectively allows Citroen – like Vauxhall and Peugeot – to hedge its bets when it comes to powertrain choice. That means the new C5 Aircoss comes with a mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, as well as multiple battery-electric choices.
First up, and representing the entry-level option, is the C5 Aircross Hybrid 145. This model has a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine mated to a small e-motor and 0.9kWh battery pack located under the front seats. Power is fed to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission to the front wheels.
Next up is the Plug-in Hybrid 195. Here, a 1.6-litre turbo is mated to a much beefier electric motor – one making 123bhp – integrated into the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, as well as a 21kWh battery pack. Here, Citroen claims up to 53 miles of engine-off battery range.
Two battery-electric models top the range, named 210 Standard Range and 230 Extended Range. The 210 model has a 73kWh battery pack and a 281bhp e-motor, with Citroen claiming a 323-mile electric range. The more powerful 230 version has a 97kWh battery and claims a 422-mile e-range.
A couple of points worth knowing about the EV versions, though. First off, a heat pump – very handy for regulating battery temperature, increasing range – is still optional on any spec below Max. Our advice is also to perhaps wait until 2026 to buy an EV version; from then, electric C5 Aircross models will come with faster AC charging (11kW over 7kW, optionally upgradeable to 22kW) and will come with vehicle-to-load technology that can power devices.
When can I have one?
Citroen says the C5 Aircross will go on sale after the summer, and is expected to launch in the UK in the winter of 2025. Prices aren’t confirmed yet, but they’re expected to be competitive compared to the likes of cars like the Dacia Bigster, MG HS and Peugeot 3008.