Vehicle Description

The Citroën C5 Aircross 1.2 PureTech 130 C-Series 5dr Hatchback stands out in the crowded compact crossover segment by offering a combination of stylish design, comfort, and practicality. As one of Citroën’s most popular models, the C5 Aircross focuses on delivering a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its unique Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension system. With the 1.2 PureTech 130 engine, this model offers a great balance between performance and efficiency, making it a compelling choice for those looking for a family-friendly vehicle with a bit of flair.

Performance and Efficiency
Under the bonnet, the 1.2-litre PureTech 130 engine is a turbocharged petrol unit producing 130 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque. While not the most powerful engine in the C5 Aircross lineup, the 1.2 PureTech offers sufficient power for daily driving and is more than capable of handling both city traffic and motorway cruising with ease. The 6-speed manual gearbox comes as standard, but for those seeking more convenience, there is an option for an automatic transmission (8-speed EAT8).

Performance-wise, the C5 Aircross feels responsive enough for a family SUV, with 0-62 mph acceleration coming in at just under 10 seconds. The engine offers good low-end torque, meaning it pulls well from lower speeds, which is especially useful when overtaking or accelerating from a standstill.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the C5 Aircross 1.2 PureTech 130 is quite reasonable for a vehicle of its size, offering around 40-45 mpg on average, depending on driving style and conditions. The vehicle’s CO2 emissions are also competitive, helping it appeal to buyers looking for a more eco-friendly option without compromising on performance.

Comfort and Ride Quality
One of the standout features of the C5 Aircross is its emphasis on comfort, and the Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension system is central to this. This innovative suspension setup absorbs bumps and road imperfections effectively, ensuring a smooth and cushioned ride even over rough roads. It’s a feature that sets the C5 Aircross apart from many of its rivals, making it particularly suitable for families or anyone who prioritizes comfort during long journeys.

The cabin is exceptionally quiet, with minimal road and engine noise intruding into the interior, even at higher speeds. This contributes to the overall feeling of luxury and refinement that Citroën is aiming for with this model. The seats are supportive and comfortable, with ample adjustment options for the driver and front passenger, ensuring that you can find a good seating position for long drives.

Interior and Practicality
The interior of the C5 Aircross 1.2 PureTech 130 C-Series is spacious and thoughtfully designed, with plenty of room for both the driver and passengers. The cabin features a contemporary layout with high-quality materials, giving it a premium feel. The C-Series trim adds distinctive touches such as two-tone upholstery, which adds to the vehicle's stylish appearance.

The front seats are spacious and comfortable, and there is a high driving position that provides good visibility, making it easier to navigate urban environments or drive on the highway. The rear seats are equally roomy, with ample legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers. The rear seats also benefit from a 60:40 split-folding arrangement, making it easy to expand the already generous 460-litre boot space for larger items. The boot is also well-shaped, and the low loading lip makes it easy to load and unload heavy or bulky items.

Citroën has also made sure that the C5 Aircross offers a number of handy storage compartments throughout the cabin, including cup holders, door pockets, and a large glovebox. This makes it a practical choice for families or anyone who needs to carry a variety of items on a daily basis.

Technology and Features
The C5 Aircross 1.2 PureTech 130 C-Series comes equipped with a decent range of technology features that enhance both comfort and convenience. The centerpiece of the cabin is the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is easy to use and responds quickly to inputs. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to connect your smartphone and use navigation, music, and hands-free calling on the go.

The system also includes Bluetooth, DAB radio, and USB ports, so you have plenty of options for entertainment and connectivity while driving. The navigation system is user-friendly and offers clear instructions, making it easy to find your way in unfamiliar areas.

There is also a digital driver display that offers clear and concise information, including driving data, navigation instructions, and vehicle status. The climate control system is intuitive and easy to operate, ensuring a comfortable temperature in the cabin at all times.

Other tech features include keyless entry, push-button start, and a rear parking camera, which makes maneuvering into tight spaces much easier. The hands-free tailgate is also a convenient addition, allowing you to open the boot without having to use your hands, which is particularly useful when your hands are full.

Safety Features
Citroën has equipped the C5 Aircross with a strong suite of safety features, making it an excellent choice for families or those who prioritize security. Standard features include autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and driver attention warning. These systems work together to provide an extra layer of protection, particularly when driving on busy roads or highways.

The C5 Aircross also comes with rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera, which assist in parking and low-speed maneuvering. For added convenience, there is also adaptive cruise control, which can maintain a set distance from the car in front, helping to reduce the stress of long-distance driving.

Citroën’s commitment to safety is evident in the C5 Aircross’s solid construction, which earned the vehicle high marks in Euro NCAP crash tests.

Driving Experience
The Citroën C5 Aircross 1.2 PureTech 130 C-Series is a comfortable and easy car to drive. Its light steering and smooth suspension make it a pleasure to navigate both urban streets and more rural roads. While it may not be the most engaging vehicle in terms of handling, it’s designed to prioritize comfort and ease, which is where the C5 Aircross excels. The elevated driving position offers great visibility, and the car feels stable and composed during highway driving.

The 6-speed manual gearbox is smooth and easy to use, though the optional 8-speed automatic transmission might be the better choice for those looking for a more relaxed driving experience. The Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension system absorbs bumps and dips with ease, ensuring that passengers enjoy a comfortable ride no matter the road surface.

Verdict
The Citroën C5 Aircross 1.2 PureTech 130 C-Series 5dr Hatchback is a fantastic option for those who value comfort, style, and practicality in a compact crossover. The 1.2 PureTech engine offers adequate power for most driving situations, while the unique suspension system ensures that every journey is smooth and comfortable.

Inside, the C5 Aircross boasts a spacious, well-equipped cabin with a range of useful tech features, while the generous boot space and flexible seating options make it an excellent choice for families. The car's safety features and solid build quality add peace of mind, making it a reliable and secure option for everyday use.

While it may not be the sportiest or the most performance-driven vehicle in its class, the C5 Aircross offers a great balance of practicality, comfort, and style, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a family-friendly vehicle that stands out from the crowd.