Although the D segment, that of sedans and station wagons between 4.6 and 4.8 meters long, is in crisis throughout Europe – in 2020 790,000 cars were registered, of which 60% belong to premium brands – Citroen try to have your say with the new C5 X, which adopts a more original formula. If the first part of the denomination takes up that of the previous generation, which left the market four years ago, the final “X” is the one that changes everything, suggesting the new characteristics of the car.
The shapes are those of a crossover, a little hatchback, a little station wagon, with a large tailgate. The length is 4.8 meters, the width of 1.86 and the height of 1.48. Measures that together with the wheelbase of 2.79 meters suggest a great interior space, while the luggage compartment has a capacity of 545 liters. The style of the C5 X incorporates some styles already seen on the new C4, even if here the design is slightly less experimental and seeks greater elegance.
Curiously, Citroen did not declare the aerodynamic penetration coefficient (Cx) which should be favorable with such a bodywork. The car body, in any case, is quite high from the ground, also because of the 19-inch wheels. Speaking of suspension, the C5 X – which is built on the most updated version of the Emp2 platform and shares many components with the C5 Aircross – debuts the Advanced Comfort active suspension that combines progressive hydraulic dampers with electronically controlled shock absorbers. The will is to revive the Citroen tradition that began with the DS and its hydropneumatic suspension. Advanced Comfort is also found inside, with seats designed specifically for long journeys and laminated front and rear windows that improve soundproofing.
The new infotainment system (12-inch horizontal display) that communicates with the cloud and the extended head-up display that projects the most useful driving information on the windscreen over an area of 21 inches also make their debut. Even at the level of driver assistance systems, the C5 X is well equipped: there are adaptive cruise control with stop and go function that works together with lane keeping, as well as long-range blind spot monitoring and warning for reversing. Finally, under the hood, no Diesel.
The first confirmed engine is the PSA Group’s classic plug-in hybrid, with the 1.6 turbo petrol engine and the electric motor that together deliver 225 HP to the front wheels. Another petrol option will come later, but there will be no all-wheel drive or 100% electric versions. Even the prices have not yet been formalized, but the arrival on the market is expected in the second half of the year.
