Citroen took aim at German rivals when it launched its second-generation C5 in 2008, with an aim of improving the experience over the previous model. Available in both saloon and estate layouts, the C5 targeted comfort and spaciousness, while also bringing a more upmarket finish than you might expect from the French brand.
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Overall rating 4.5/5
Running costs
Comfort
Reliability
Space Practicality
While the first-generation C5 never really struck a chord with buyers, the second-generation car was re-engineered from top to bottom in order to succeed. Rivals at the time included the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat and the Renault Laguna, as well as more upmarket offerings from brands like BMW and Mercedes. However, Citroen still incorporated a little bit of French flair into the C5, making it a characterful alternative to many of the other more mainstream rivals. But where the C5 really stood apart was in terms of outright comfort. A luxuriously smooth ride makes the C5 the ideal long-distance cruiser while a quiet cabin only helps things further.
Impressively comfortableLots of space for passengersNot too expensive to maintain
Some poor plastics here and thereNot the most involving in the bends Suffered from electrical gremlins The C5 proved to be a very safe car at the time, with Euro NCAP awarding it a maximum five-star rating when it was crash tested back in 2009. Remember, however, that tests have become more stringent over time, so that five-star rating is closer to a three-star rating in today’s world. That said, you still get a suite of airbags as well as a full electronic stability control system.
The Citroen C5 is available with 1.6- and 2.2-litre diesel engines, while a punchy 3.0-litre diesel V6 engine takes the place as the most powerful option in the range. You’ve then got a 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol engine to choose between.
The C5 is well equipped as standard, with one of the highlights being the multi-function steering wheel. It may not sound exciting, but it has a fixed ‘boss’ in the middle around which the rim of the wheel moves while it stays fixed. It’s one of the quirks which makes the C5 feel a little different to the rest. Elsewhere, you’ve got Bluetooth phone connectivity, automatic air conditioning and a CD player.
Expect to get around 50mpg from the 1.6-litre diesel, or 46mpg from the 2.0-litre version. As you might expect, the more powerful V6 engine is a little thirstier, but it’s still manageable at 38mpg. You should be able to see around 40mpg from the petrol engines, too, meaning they’re still a good option, efficiency-wise.
Many Citroen C5 owners have reported a few issues with their cars, but it’s worth listening out for any squeaks or rattles in this car as plastics and trim pieces have been known to work loose. It’s also a good idea to test all of the major controls and buttons to make sure they’re working properly, as issues have been reported with them. For added information, consider an AA Vehicle Inspection. A trained technician will look at the car and then relay their findings to you via a detailed report.
The Citroen C5 is a largely reliable car, though issues have been reported in a few cars. Some owners also report power steering leaks, so check underneath any car you’re looking at for puddles. If you have any other concerns, then an AA Vehicle Inspection can help to provide a lot more information about any car you’re looking at.
The Citroen C5 is available with 1.6- 2.0- and 3.0-litre diesels, as well as 1.8- and 2.0-litre petrol engines.
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