The Citroen C8 is designed to make life easier for families and anyone needing serious space and flexibility.
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Overall rating 4/5
Running costs
Comfort
Reliability
Space Practicality
With its trademark sliding side doors and roomy seven-seat layout, the C8 remains a practical and user-friendly MPV built with comfort in mind. Produced between 2002 and 2014 (though UK sales ended around 2010), it was developed as part of a joint project with Peugeot, Fiat and Lancia. Sharing its platform with the Peugeot 807 and Fiat Ulysse, the C8 is often seen as the most budget-friendly choice of the three. Inside, there’s space for seven adults with flexible seat arrangements and wide-opening electric sliding doors that ease access, especially in tight spaces. It competes with rivals like the SEAT Alhambra and Volkswagen Sharan, standing out for practicality rather than premium polish. While it now shows its age mainly in cabin tech, the Citroen C8 still offers good value on the used market for families prioritising space over modern styling.
Flexible seven-seat cabinSliding electric side doors on many modelsComfortable and composed ride
Dated interior and infotainmentSome electrical reliability concernsRear seats don't fold flatThe Citroen C8 includes essential safety features such as ABS, multiple airbags, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Later models also added electronic stability control. If you regularly drive with kids on board, the sliding side doors are handy for getting in and out safely.
There’s a mix of petrol and diesel engines to choose from, though most UK buyers went for diesel. The 2.0 HDi and 2.2 HDi diesels strike a good balance between power and efficiency, especially if you’re carrying a full car or doing longer trips. Petrol versions include 2.0-litre and 2.2-litre units, but they’re a bit thirstier – worth keeping in mind if you’re doing mostly city driving.
Standard features included electric windows, air conditioning and remote central locking. Depending on trim, you may also find cruise control, automatic headlights, parking sensors and – on higher-spec models – a rear-seat video entertainment system. Sat-nav and leather seats were also optional or fitted to top-spec versions.
Official combined fuel economy for the 2.0 HDi is around 39.8mpg, though most owners report real-world figures between 33–39mpg, depending on driving style and load. Petrol engines are less economical, particularly around town or on short trips.
Take time to test all the electrics – the power sliding doors, windows and air conditioning. Make sure the service history is complete, and that the timing belt has been changed at the right intervals. For total peace of mind, book The AA Vehicle Inspection.
The Citroen C8 is generally reliable, but be prepared for the odd electrical niggle – it’s common on older models. Things like sensors and central locking may need occasional attention. Still, if you find one that’s been looked after and you keep up with servicing, it can make for a solid family car.
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