CITROËN C5 SALOON FULL REVIEW

Citroën C5 Saloon full 9 point review

Performance

3 out of 5 stars

If you want a petrol-powered C5, there’s only one engine option, a 1.6-litre unit that was jointly developed with BMW, but which we’re yet to drive. There’s a wider range of diesel engines (well, three) available, with either 107-, 161- or 237bhp. The smaller 1.6-litre unit gives reasonable pace, so we wouldn’t bother upgrading to the 2.0-litre or 3.0-litre V6.
Ride & Handling

3 out of 5 stars

The C5 is unusual, in that it has two different suspension systems to choose from. Most C5s have conventional steel springs, but top-spec cars and autos get a hydropneumatic arrangement, as used on all big Citroens for the past 50 years. Both give a supple ride, but larger bumps can still unsettle things and the car leans heavily through bends. The steering responds sharply and there’s plenty of grip, but you get little sensation through the wheel.
Refinement

5 out of 5 stars

Even some limos aren't as peaceful as top-spec C5s, because these get laminated side glass to help shut out wind noise. Lesser models aren’t quite as refined, but when you're inside, it still feels like the volume’s been turned down on the world. The diesel engines are extremely refined, while the suspension suppresses any noise from the road. The gearshift is disappointing, though, because it’s vague and clunky.

Buying & Owning

2 out of 5 stars

C5 discounts are in line with those for rival models, but resale values are awful, no matter which version you choose. Leasing rates are more competitive, but the only version that emits 120g/km of CO2 or less is the 1.6 e-HDi, which comes with Citroen’s jerky EGS semi-automatic gearbox.
Quality & Reliability

3 out of 5 stars

Citroen is on a mission to convince buyers that its cars are as well built as anything from Germany, and the C5's plush cabin materials suggest the company has turned things around. However, in the 2011 JD Power survey, owners said the car's reliability was below average, reporting problems with the car's engine warning lights.
Safety & Security

5 out of 5 stars

The comprehensive list of standard safety kit includes stability control and seven airbags, while rear side 'bags are optional. All C5s get a cornering light that illuminates the inside of a bend at low speed, while headlights that turn with the front wheels are available as an option. Citroen security is good, and the laminated side windows on range-topping cars are hard to break.

Behind The Wheel

2 out of 5 stars

The fascia looks smart, but there are too many small switches. On top of that, the instruments can be hard to read at a glance because their centres are packed with information. A good range of adjustment helps the driver to get comfortable, but the lever controlling the seat backrest is hard to reach. The steeply angled base also makes you sit with your knees up in the air - it's not uncomfortable, just a bit odd.
Space & Practicality

3 out of 5 stars

The C5 saloon is not as versatile as some hatchback rivals. However, its unusual concave rear screen gives you a good-sized boot opening, and the rear seats fold flat for added practicality. There's plenty of knee- and shoulder room, and only people over six feet tall are likely to quibble over headroom in the back.
Equipment

4 out of 5 stars

Three trims are available, with entry-level VTR models getting climate control, cruise control and four electric windows. Upgrading to VTR+ NAV brings satellite-navigation, alloy wheels and dual-zone climate control, while Exclusive cars feature interior mood lighting, parking sensors, electric front seat adjustment and the hydropneumatic suspension.