Citroën were kind enough to invite us over to Paris recently for the launch of the new C5 Aircross. First seen at the 2024 Paris Motor Show as a concept, this second-generation C5 Aircross builds on the promise to offer a stylish, and more comfortable option in the current C-SUV segment. When the covers were drawn the new C5 Aircross did indeed look stylish with Citroën’s new design language giving it a muscular and purposeful stance. The front proudly wears Citroën’s new logo, complemented by a striking three-point light signature with Matrix LED headlamps. The electric version benefits from a fully enclosed front grille to enhance aerodynamic efficiency. Other aerodynamic elements like a slightly sloping roofline, air deflectors, and a sophisticated rear fascia with floating light wings further boost style and efficiency.
Although first drive opportunities are a bit off, we did take time to sit in both the front and rear seats to experience the comfort and space. Citroën has somehow created a true lounge on wheels with the C5 Aircross putting space and comfort first. Decent quality foam materials, a floating horizontal dashboard, and Citroën’s Advanced Comfort seats create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. These seats offer adjustable side bolsters for tailored support, while rear passengers enjoy reclining seats and enhanced knee and headroom compared to the outgoing model. With a generous 2.78m wheelbase, the C5 Aircross will give Irish punters one of the largest boot spaces in the segment at 651 litres for all models.
A new vertical 12.3-inch floating touchscreen seamlessly cascades into the centre console, offering customisable widgets, 3D navigation, and infotainment controls. All models come with a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, with higher trims adding an extended head-up display. Safety is equally prioritised, with features like semi-automatic lane changes, rear traffic alerts, extended blind-spot detection, and driver monitoring cameras. Under the bonnet, the C5 Aircross reflects Citroën’s multi-energy strategy, offering a choice between fully electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
The new ë-C5 Aircross is available with two 100% electric power options to include a 210 hp motor with a 73kWh battery for up to 520 km range (WLTP) or a 230 hp motor with a 97kWh battery for up to 680 km range (WLTP). Drivers will be able to choose between Normal, Eco, and Sport modes, with three levels of regenerative braking using the steering wheel paddles. Charging is fast and easy with a standard 11kW onboard charger is included, with an optional 22kW bi-directional charger arriving in 2026. Fast charging at 160kW can replenish the battery in just 27 minutes.
For customers hesitant to make the commitment to go fully electric, Citroën offers the C5 Aircross Hybrid 145 which uses 48V technology, providing over 950 km of combined range (WLTP), with the ability to drive up to 50% of the time in electric mode around town. The final option will be the C5 Aircross Plug-In Hybrid offering over 100 km of pure electric range for city driving which is a 33% improvement over the previous model. The fuel tank has also increased to 55-litres for extended motorway driving. Driving comfort is said to be super smooth also with thanks to Citroën’s famous Progressive Hydraulic Cushion suspension which absorbs bumps and undulations more effectively than traditional shock absorbers. Citroën have also taken a no compromise approach to practicality with boot space identical, regardless of the drivetrain chosen. No more battery intrusion into boot space!
We are told the C5 Aircross and ë-C5 Aircross along with pricing will arrive to the Irish market at the tail end of this year, just in time for the 261-registration period. This vehicle looks set to be one of the most comfortable family SUVs available on Irish roads but we will reserve full driving impressions for that first time we get behind the wheel!
