CITROËN C5:

 Maintaining its market momentum, Citroën is presenting the C5 – its new offering on the mid/upper-range segment – in the run-up to the Paris Motor Show. This “intelligent” road car, available in saloon and estate versions, combines styling, interior space and performance.

The Citroën C5 is a car apart in terms of the promise embodied in its styling and its strong personality. It brings customers a wide array of technologies and innovation for exemplary well-being and safety.

The C5 is the first Citroën vehicle to feature the latest high efficiency driving aids, such as Xenon dual-function directional headlamps, front parking assistance, a speed limiter and a new lane departure warning system.

In terms of safety, the Citroën C5 also features new-generation ESP to correct the vehicle’s course with precision and efficiency, and a new steering column airbag to protect the driver’s knees and shins.

The Citroën C5 offers a level of interior comfort worthy of a high-spec model, with laminated side windows and a hydractive suspension that actively filters out imperfections in the road surface to offer unequalled comfort.

Inside the car, the generous cabin space is an invitation to travel, and to enjoy the driving – and travelling – sensations to the full.

Offering a range of engines adapted to all types of driving, the Citroën C5 embodies a new alliance in styling, technology and comfort.

Citroën C5: a car with grand tourer styling

The Citroën C5 stands apart first and foremost for the elegance and promise of its exterior styling and for the remarkable presence expressed by its taut, clean lines.

·      The boomerang-shaped light units – set off by the bonnet design and the badged radiator grille – give the front end a dynamic and determined appearance.

·      Viewed from the side, the clean balanced lines of the Citroën C5 suggest a taut, flowing profile – the profile of a grand tourer whose generous dimensions promise excellent interior space.

·      At the rear, the Citroën C5 shows dynamic contour lines, with sharply outlined “boomerang” lights to match the front end, and a structured tailgate.

·      A captivating, well-balanced vehicle of status, the Citroën C5 is also attractive and elegant, with its striking combination of design lines, and the chrome features seen on the lower body panels and the bumpers.

·      Inside the Citroën C5, chrome- and lacquer-plated features add a further touch of class. A styling strip creates a link between the top and bottom of the dashboard, for example, and may be extended up to the inner door panels.

·      The dashboard sports modern instruments and a central console with two-zone automatic air conditioning and separate controls, as well as a hi-fi system of outstanding quality.

Looking beyond its elegant and personal style, the Citroën C5 offers an array of technological equipment for exemplary driving comfort and safety.

Advanced technology serving comfort and safety

Faithful to its tradition as an innovator, Citroën has equipped the new C5 with intelligent driving aids for a relaxed drive.

·      The Citroën C5 is the first vehicle in the range to feature Xenon dual-function directional headlamps for improved lighting on cornering.

·      The Citroën C5 features front and rear parking assistance with manoeuvres displayed on a multifunction screen. This function is usually reserved for vehicles in the next segment up.

·      To make driving easy for customers in search of comfort, safety and well-being, the Citroën C5 is available with both cruise control and a speed limiter.

·      Innovating again, the Citroën C5 features a lane departure warning system. This new function detects an unintentional lane change on a motorway or fast road, when the indicator is not activated. A vibrating mechanism mounted in the car seat is triggered on the side corresponding to the line crossed in order to alert the driver who may, for example, be distracted.

·      For increased safety, the Citroën C5 also features new-generation ESP to provide precise, efficient control of the course steered by the car, and seven airbags including a new steering column airbag to protect the driver’s knees and shins in the event of impact.

·      The Citroën C5 is also equipped with pyrotechnic pretensioners and force limiters on the seatbelts, along with a double pretensioner on the passenger seatbelt.

The Citroën C5 is fitted with advanced-technology petrol and diesel engines.

·      The Citroën C5 is available with three petrol engines: two 4-cylinder engines of 1.8i 16V and 2.0i 16V developing 117 and 143 bhp DIN, and a 3-litre V6 24-valve engine with continuously variable valve timing, developing 210 bhp DIN and coupled with a new sixspeed automatic gearbox.

·      In terms of diesel powerplants, the Citroën C5 offers a choice of three new-generation HDi commonrail engines developing between 110 bhp and 138 bhp. This last engine is coupled with a new six-speed manual gearbox. The environmental strong points of the HDi engines are further reinforced by the diesel particulate filter system (DPFS).

The comfort of a high-spec vehicle

The Citroën C5 is not just reassuring. It is also comfortable. The exceptionally roomy interior of the C5, particularly at the rear, and the low acoustic and vibration levels all contribute to creating a unique sensation of comfort.

·      The Citroën C5 features a range of equipment to isolate the passenger compartment from the noise produced by the wind, engine or road, as well as from impact noise.

·      Alongside the new elastic shims and the many sound-proofing and gravel-protection features for high-level acoustic comfort, the Citroën C5 may also be fitted with laminated side windows.

·      Already renowned for its comfort, the Hydractive III suspension has further consolidated its operating qualities and technological excellence. This autoadaptive suspension varies the height of the vehicle automatically. The two settings, comfort or sport, are managed in line with road conditions and the driver’s style.

·      With its velvety-smooth road manners, the Citroën C5 dominates its category for suspension and damping comfort.

Exterior styling with promise

From an architectural standpoint, the Citroën C5 confirms a new direction in styling trends at Citroën. The emphasis is on more sculptural forms with a dynamic and elegant look, as illustrated by the Marque’s latest models.

The exterior design of the C5 endows the car with a distinctive personality and strong horizontal and vertical structuring.

As a result, the Citroën C5 features an attractive front end, a taut, flowing profile and a dynamically contoured rear end.

A highly expressive front end

The Citroën C5 is a car whose taut clean lines express strong presence.

The C5 features an aluminium bonnet in striking relief, along with a new radiator grille whose low, wide shape gives the front end a more athletic profile, as well as enhancing the car’s overall robust looks. The Citroën C5 is a car of steadfast and enthusiastic character.

The wide forms of the car are underlined by the chevrons of a new – more geometric – design, extended by a chrome strip forming the upper part of the grille.

Positioned at either end of this strip, the main headlamps are associated with boomerang shaped parking lights in opalescent white.

The lower part of the front end is fitted with a bumper featuring protection strips and fog lamps on the air intake.

Adding a further note of elegance, the side crossbars feature a chrome strip between the colour-keyed skin and the self-coloured body panel.

A taut, flowing profile

Viewed from the side, the C5 has a structured appearance, with its elongated lines, side mouldings and taut lower body trim. Continuing the line of the bumpers, the lower body trim is underlined by a chrome strip suggesting prestige and quality.

The generous dimensions of the Citroën C5 showcase the taut, flowing profile.

The Citroën C5 is 1.78 m wide, 1.47 m high and 4.47 m long, with a wheel base of 2.75 m. It is one of the longest vehicles in its category, a feature that further identifies it as a vehicle of status.

Flawlessly integrated with the body line, the 16-inch wheels fitted on all versions of the C5 contribute to the overall styling balance, in the same way as the embellishers and alloy wheels.

A car of balanced proportions, with the virtually straight strip formed by the side windows, the shape of the roof, and the rearward flow of the design lines, the Citroën C5 combines the power and elegance of a saloon with the functional convenience of a hatchback.

In this way, the Citroën C5 showcases all the qualities of a powerful, confident vehicle that is at one with the road.

An elegant and dynamically contoured rear end

The designers at Citroën’s styling centre placed particular emphasis on the rear styling of the Citroën C5, particularly the saloon.

The distinguished lines of the saloon’s rear end stabilise the car visually and match up with the design of the front end, through the original shape of the boomerang lighting unit, several components of which are positioned on the tailgate. The other lighting components are positioned on the rear wings.

Modern badges and a resized chevron complement the chrome strip that creates a link between the tailgate and rear bumper. As at the front, the bumper features protective mouldings and side crossbars trimmed with chrome.

The upper line of the tailgate features a deflector lip of dynamic design and effect, which improves rear lift and contributes to roadholding. Depending on the engine, the Citroën C5 Saloon has a Cl of between 0.08 and 0.10.

To give the Citroën C5 an excellent on-road stance, engineers also studied the question of vehicle attitude. Depending on the engine, the Citroën C5 Saloon has a Cd of 0.29 or 0.30.

The main styling characteristics of the Citroën C5 Saloon also apply to the estate, in which the balance between style and volume creates a car of remarkable versatility.

C5 Estate: balance between style and volume

For the estate, Citroën’s designers sought to create a car as elegant as the saloon but with more generous volumes.

The result clearly proves their ability to square the two aims. The C5 Estate meets the needs of customers looking for a car that combines style and personality with generous volumes for increased presence and interior space.

The Citroën C5 Estate adopts the basic styling lines of the saloon in part, although its distinctive architecture creates significant differences.

The Citroën C5 Estate is a model of eloquent and elegant exterior styling with a front end borrowed from the saloon, a balanced profile of meticulous design, and a high wide rear set off by the rear lights.

This body style expresses a car of unique identity and considerable versatility, with the original spirit that sets Citroën vehicles apart.

A front end taken from the saloon and a balanced profile

The Citroën C5 Estate adopts the dynamic exterior styling features of the saloon: the same aluminium bonnet and the same grille with its strong statement of brand identity. From the front end up to the central pillar, the estate and the saloon are identical.

The profile of the C5 Estate demonstrates a perfect balance. With generous rear volumes that set it apart from the saloon, the estate boasts original styling that combines dynamic power with sophisticated presence. The C5 Estate is 4.84 m long, 1.78 m wide and 1.51 m tall. The proportions are naturally greater than for the saloon, but the additional volume has no impact on the design lines.

The long wheelbase and very wide tracks suggest power, control and strength. This roomy appearance is also expressed by the large glazed surface area, which suggests, light, well-being, and generous interior space. In particular, the side quarter windows are larger than those of the rear doors, hinting at the car’s extraordinary loading capacity.

The C5 Estate is also an elegant car, with the chrome strip on the lower body trim, repeated on the front and rear bumpers.

A rear end worthy of a true estate

The rear end of the C5 Estate features a high, wide design like that of the large volume Citroën C8 – set off by vertical lights that form two curving “brackets” around the tailgate. The rear styling of the estate is consistent with the front, with the integrated mouldings and chrome strips on the side crossbars.

Interior styling suggesting well-being

The interior styling of the Citroën C5 was designed to bring both driver and passengers a feeling of well-being for relaxed travelling.

In harmony with its exterior styling, the Citroën C5 features a dashboard with a sophisticated instrument cluster, as well as a new central console fascia of clean design lines.

The dashboard: in dynamic harmony

The dashboard materials and decor, with their subtle, carefully matched colour schemes, create an impression of quality and well-being in the passenger compartment, without neglecting functional requirements.

A finishing strip links the upper and lower parts of the dashboard, adding a visual touch that is totally in keeping with the overall design.

The driver’s station is clearly structured and ergonomic. It is clear, at a glance, that the passenger compartment has adopted a new generation of instruments.

On the instrument cluster, the dials feature round, metal rims and two-tone backgrounds.

The instruments are functional, precise, and clearly legible, thanks to their modern typeface and – at night – the « apricot »-coloured lighting that helps the driver’s eyes adapt when switching from the dark road to the illuminated dashboard.

An elegant and functional central console fascia

On the centre of the dashboard is a new wide, high central console fascia grouping the hi-fi system and built-in CD radio with two-zone automatic air conditioning and separate controls.

Falling easily to hand, the sophisticated controls underline the character of the interior architecture, which is centred on the driver without excluding the passengers.

The hi-fi radio system and MP3 compatible integrated CD – optional depending on the country and trim level – offer excellent sound quality, designed specially for the characteristics of the passenger compartment.

Modern interior colours and trim

New body colours

The Citroën C5 offers a choice of twelve body colours: two plain, four metallic and six pearlescent. Four new colours – Ganache, Profond Red, Sable de Langrune, and Nova Green – make their appearance on this new vehicle.

Interior trim to match the exterior styling

The design ambitions of the C5 are reflected by the welcoming interior colour scheme and by the use of high-quality materials that make travelling in this car a pleasant experience.

The sober decor underlines the high-status interior design, which is further enhanced by two new trims whose availability depends on the version.

Depending on the country, the Citroën C5 is fitted with new velour and a « dynamic’ » style trim.

The leather trim features a new grain for enhanced quality and well-being.

Innovative equipment

Along with the dynamic and elegant exterior and interior styling, Citroën wanted the new C5 to place particular emphasis on innovation. The Citroën C5 features an array of high-tech equipment, bringing considerable improvements in efficiency, comfort and safety.

Xenon dual-function directional headlamps for clear vision

The Citroën C5 is the first vehicle of the Marque to feature Xenon dual-function directional headlamps.

Generally fitted as standard with the Exclusive trim, the electronically controlled Xenon dual-function directional headlamps provide improved lighting for cornering. As soon as the driver starts to take a bend, sensors analyse the degree to which the wheels are turned, using the steering wheel position. To optimise the lighting of the road ahead, the headlamps pivot horizontally over an angle of around 15° to the right or to the left (8° for the headlamp on the outside of the bend and up to 15° for the headlamp on the inside). Lighting up areas that were previously in darkness, these smart headlamps clearly improve visibility at night or in bad weather and allow the driver to see road conditions, as well as to distinguish other road users and possible obstacles – an important advantage in terms of safety.

Specifically, the directional headlamps of the new C5 feature an elliptical bi-xenon directional headlamp, active in both the low-beam and high-beam positions, and a long-range complex- shape halogen completing the high-beam function for excellent visibility.

For the first time: the lane departure warning system

The Citroën C5 is the first Citroën vehicle to feature a new driving aid designed to detect unintentional lane changes on fast roads and motorways at speeds over 80 kph.

The system is activated when the driver allows the car to gradually drift off its course owing, for example, to a moment’s distraction. The system works as follows: when the car crosses the road markings (continuous or broken white line) and if the indicator is not activated, the infrared sensors behind the front bumper detect an anomaly, and the control unit warns the driver. A vibrating mechanism mounted in the car seat is activated on the side corresponding to the direction of vehicle drift in order to alert the driver, who can then take corrective action.

The lane departure warning system is activated by a pushbutton on the central console. The status of the function is memorised when the vehicle stops. 

More precisely, the car’s drift off course is detected by six infrared sensors located under the car’s front bumper, three on either side. Each one is made up of an infrared emitting diode and a detection cell. The detection function relies on variations in the infrared beam reflected by the diode on the road surface.

The sophisticated sensors are able to detect not only white lines, but also the yellow, red or blue lines used as provisional lane markings in some European countries.

The system is also capable of making a distinction between longitudinal markings (continuous or broken) and other road markings, such as directional arrows, markings showing the required distance between vehicles, and written information (excluding nonstandardised special cases).

Front and rear parking assistance

Ever an innovator, Citroën is seeking to bring customers driving aids of increased efficiency. The Citroën C5, for example, is available with both rear and front parking assistance, a system usually reserved for vehicles further up the market.

Rear parking assistance, more commonly referred to as a reversing radar, is a function that is already familiar to buyers of mid and upper-range vehicles. Sensors located in the rear bumper detect any obstacles close to the rear end of the vehicle. Depending on the position of the obstacle, the system emits a series of bleeps that gradually become more frequent as the car approaches the obstacle, becoming a continuous signal when it is just a few centimetres away.

Front parking assistance works alongside the sensors located at the rear of the Citroën C5. Sensors located in the front bumper inform the driver of the presence of an obstacle in the area of detection.

The system also allows the driver to view parking manoeuvres on the multifunction screen. Parking assistance is standard with the Exclusive trim and may be available as an option for other trim levels.

More precisely, the system is activated during manoeuvres in forward or reverse gear at speeds of less than 10 kph. If an obstacle is present in the detection area, the sensors warn the driver by means of a signal emitted through the loudspeakers located at the front or rear, left and/or right. At the same time, the silhouette of the vehicle is displayed on the multifunction screen, with blocks corresponding to the areas in which an obstacle has been detected.

Six different detection areas can be displayed on the screen.

When the car approaches an obstacle, the signal indicates the obstacle’s position through the oudspeakers located front left or right or rear left or ight in order to enable the driver to locate it by ear.

The closer the car comes to the obstacle, the faster he bleeps. On the multifunction screen, the blocks ove closer to the front or rear bumpers of the vehicle, and a warning triangle indicating « CAUTION » is displayed. At the same time, the sound signal becomes continuous.

If front and rear parking assistance is activated when the driver puts the car into reverse, a short bleep is emitted as a warning. The silhouette of the vehicle is displayed on screen.

If front parking assistance alone is activated in forward gear, and if vehicle speed is non-zero or less than around 10 kph, in neutral or with a gear selected, the silhouette of the vehicle is displayed on screen as soon as an obstacle is detected at a distance of less than 50 cm.

Parking assistance can be deactivated using a button on the central console. The status of the function is memorised when the vehicle stops.

Cruise control and a speed limiter for relaxed driving

 With a view to making driving easier for customers looking for comfort, safety and well-being, the Citroën C5 is now available with cruise control and a speed limiter.

Cruise control maintains the car at a programmed speed whatever the slope and relief of the road (within the limits of the engine brake and engine power) without the driver using the accelerator pedal.

The driver can modify the programmed speed, if required, using the control function behind the steering wheel to accelerate or slow down. The driver can also call up the last speed registered since the function was activated, interrupt it temporarily or deactivate it altogether.

The general availability of cruise control is accompanied by the introduction of a speed limiter: the driver chooses a maximum speed to be respected at all times, whatever the position of his foot on the accelerator (within the limits of the engine brake and engine power). The speed limiter can be activated from 40 kph for use in the city.

To exceed this speed, in order to overtake for example, the driver can accelerate by pushing the pedal down hard to the floor, and thus override the hard spot marking the pedal end-of-travel point.

The speed limiter is activated and programmed in the same way as cruise control.

The instrument cluster shows the current speed setting (cruise control / limiter) and system status (active / inactive).

State-of-the-art engines

A concentrate of technology and innovation, the Citroën C5 supplies the power necessary for all types of driving.

Offering a choice of six petrol and diesel engines, the Citroën C5 covers a full range of market requirements to strike an ideal balance between performance, reduced fuel consumption, reliability and environmental protection.

Petrol engines

·      1.8i 16V 117 bhp DIN at entry level

The entry-level powerplant on the Citroën C5 is the 1.8 litre 16 valve engine developing maximum power of 85 kW EEC (117 bhp DIN) with torque of 160 Nm at 4,000 rpm.

Responsive from the lowest engine speeds, it is coupled with a five-speed manual BE type gearbox. Depending on the country, this powertrain may meet with Euro III or Euro IV emission standards.

·      2.0i 16V 143 bhp DIN and variable valve timing (VVT)

Among the petrol engines available with the Citroën C5, a new 2-litre 16-valve model (the EW10A) is launched in the middle of the range.

This 2-litre 16-valve engine develops 103 kW EEC (143 bhp DIN) and torque of 200 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The top end of the engine features variable valve timing (VVT).

Making its debut on the Citroën C5, this engine is coupled with the five-speed manual BE gearbox, or the four-speed auto-active sequentially controlled AL4 type gearbox. This powertrain meets the Euro IV emission standard.

·      3.0i V6 engine and 6-speed automatic gearbox: smooth and consistent performance

The top of the range is covered by the 3.0i engine (ES9A). Featuring a V6 layout with 24 valves, this engine is based on the 3.0i V6, which is also fitted on the C8.

It develops 152 kW CEE (210 bhp DIN) for maximum torque of 285 Nm at 3,750 rpm.

This exceptionally driveable revised engine offers the smooth power specific to a 6-cylinder powerplant. An engine of consistent performance and power, it can cope with all situations. These qualities are largely due to the new variable timing of the intake camshafts.

The continuously variable valve timing (VVT) optimises filling of the combustion chambers at all engine speeds, to bring enhanced response and driveability: two qualities that are absolutely essential in a true top-of-the range engine.

In terms of environmental protection, the V6 engine complies with the Euro IV emission standard. It is coupled with the new sequential, automatic six-speed AM6-type gearbox.

Developed with AISIN A.W, this gearbox combines a six-speed transmission with a high-torque engine placed crosswise.

Basically, this gearbox uses the gear ratio combinations of two epicyclic gear trains, one single and one double.

The system is controlled by just five friction components, managed by a compact integrated control unit.

As a result, it is lighter and more compact than any other six-speed gearbox to date.

Both the weight and dimensions are comparable to those of a four-speed automatic gearbox, and better than those of five-speed transverse automatic transmissions with the same torque capacity.

The weight of the AM6 gearbox has thus been kept down to 92 kg, a value comparable, for example, with that of the previous four-speed 4HP20-type gearbox.

The first ratio is shortened in order to provide a high speed take-off. All six gear ratios are designed to make maximum use of the engine, with only a slight fall in engine revs at each gear change. This design optimises the car’s acceleration performance.

The sixth gear ratio gearbox has been choosen to lower fuel consumption and also noise which is already low.

The AM6 gearbox offers a choice of two management modes for enhanced driving pleasure: automatic auto-adaptive mode for stress-free driving, and a more active sequential control mode.

The instrument cluster displays the programme selected (auto-adaptive, sport or snow) or the gear used (sequential mode).

For increased safety, the gearbox features a « shift lock » function to prevent the driver shifting from the Parking (P) position without also applying the brakes. At the same time, a buzzer sounds when the driver opens the door without first placing the gearlever in the Parking position.

The new 3.0i V6 engine and new automatic gearbox combine high-level performance with pure driving pleasure.

Diesel engine

Dynamic and economical, the HDI engines – all fitted with common-rail technology – offer astonishing levels of performance.

The new-generation common-rail injection system is extremely precise for improved efficiency. The recognised qualities of these diesel engines set them apart: reliability, response, torque reserve from the lowest engine speeds, acoustic comfort, low fuel consumption and reduced pollutant emissions.

Clearly, the Citroën C5 had to provide a rich choice of diesel engine with, in all cases, outstanding torque for continuous driving pleasure on all types of road.

·      HDi 110 engine: compact design, performance and technology

The entry-level model of the Citroën C5 features the HDi 110 engine with the diesel particulate filter system (DPFS). With a capacity of 1,560 cm3 and a 16-valve cylinder head, this engine is coupled with a 5-speed manual BE-type gearbox.

It develops 80 kW EEC (110 bhp DIN) for torque of 240 Nm from 1,750 rpm. Maximum torque can be increased to 260 Nm through the overboost function, which increases turbo pressure for a short period.

Naturally, this engine also satisfies the Euro IV emission standard.

The combustion system of the HDi 110 engine features the latest technologies, with a second generation common-rail injection system offering maximum pressure of 1,600 bars.

This system is coupled with multiple injection technology. The main characteristic of this system is that it can potentially manage six successive injections:

·       two pre-injections to control combustion noise,

·       two main injections to obtain couple and torque, and establish a good noise/emissions/fuel consumption balance,

·       if required, two post-injections to regenerate the DPFS.

Progress in common-rail technology has brought lower fuel consumption, greater driving pleasure, enhanced acoustic performance and fewer vibrations, as well as ensuring a further reduction in pollutant emissions.

To extend its offering and meet the requirements of diesel engines customers, Citroën has decided to make the C5 available with two other engines coupled with two distinct gearboxes. Covering most market requirements, these two engines make up the heart of the range.

·      HDi 138 engine and 6-speed manual gearbox

The 2-litre HDi 138 16 valve engine develops 100 kW CEE (138 bhp DIN ) for maximum torque of 320 Nm at 2,000 rpm. The overboost function increases maximum torque to 340 Nm at 2,000 rpm at full engine load.

This engine is available with or without the Diesel Particulate Filter System (DPFS), depending on the country. The DPFS version meets the Euro IV emission standard.

The new-generation common-rail direct injection system on the new HDi 138 is supplied by Siemens. Like the HDi 110, it is designed to manage up to six different injections. The system also delivers maximum injection pressure of 1,600 bars.

This engine is coupled with the new six-speed manual ML6C gearbox, which is designed to provide driving pleasure at all times. Intermediate gear ratios are optimised and the sixth gear offers remarkable endurance on the motorway.

·      The HDi 136 DPFS coupled with an automatic gearbox : low noise and high performance

The Citroën C5 is also available with the 2.2 litre HDi 136 16- valve engine: a model of recognised qualities. An engine of greater capacity than the HDi 138 and of equally modern architecture, the HDi 136 offers high-level power and torque: 98 kW EEC (136 bhp DIN) and 314 Nm at 2,000 rpm.

As a result, the C5 HDi 136 offers exceptional performance and driving pleasure. These qualities can also be attributed to an array of advanced technologies, including a variable geometry turbo, an air-intake distributor with a throttle valve for variable swirl, two balancing shafts to limit engine vibrations.

This engine is associated with the four-speed sequential automatic 4HP20-type gearbox. This combination gives the Citroën C5 an outstanding level of driving comfort. This gearbox ensures that gear shifts always fit the type of driving and the road conditions.

Systematically fitted with the Diesel Particulate Filter System, the HDi 136 satisfies the Euro III emission standard.

·      The Particulate Filter (DPFS)

The second-generation particulate filter traps the particulates and burns them as part of a process exclusive to the common-rail system, using the additive Eolys II. This innovative filter is based on an advanced strategy that reduces the frequency of filter regeneration.

On the HDi 138 and HDi 136 engines, the particulate filters are now replaced every 180,000 km, compared with 120,000 km previously.

A high level of active and passive safety

Safety is more than a priority for Citroën, which has endowed the C5 with a generous range of equipment intended to assist the driver and protect the passengers.

New-generation ESP

To give the Citroën C5 impeccable road manners and ensure the safety of the occupants in all circumstances, all versions of this new vehicle are fitted as standard with new-generation ESP offering increased computing power.

In difficult situations, a full range of electronic driving aids take immediate action.

ABS and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) are completed by emergency braking assistance to further reduce the stopping distance. In the event of a loss of grip, ESP automatically puts the car back on course and limits skidding of the wheels by means of the ASR traction-control system.

The ESP (electronic stability programme) function relies on a steering wheel sensor and a yaw sensor to detect the first signs of understeering or oversteering. The new, more powerful control unit sends out a command to correct the understeering or oversteering, applying adequate brake power on one or more wheels, in individually. In this way, the vehicle’s course is corrected with greater precision and accuracy.

The new ESP also includes a new function to control partial braking when taking corners, and a « brake pad drying » function to optimise brake response in rainy weather. Activation of this system is linked to the wiper function and has no impact on brake wear.

In terms of passive safety, the Citroën C5 features efficient restraint systems for all the occupant, together with a structure designed to resist the most violent impacts.

Seven airbags including a new « knee » airbag

The Citroën C5 is fitted as standard with two front airbags (driver and passenger), two front chest airbags and two front/rear curtain airbags. The two front airbags are adaptive: the deployment pressure and volume depend on the severity of impact. The passenger airbag can be deactivated using the ignition key, in order to install a child seat at the front. An indicator on the instrument cluster informs the driver that the airbag has been deactivated.

Drivers of the Citroën C5 can also rely on a new steering column airbag, a feature that is fairly rare at present, even in segments further up the market.

In the event of impact, this airbag protects the driver’s knees and shins from the steering column.

Efficient seatbelts 

A range of equipment provides the driver and passengers with close protection adapted to the severity of possible impact.

On the Citroën C5, the front seatbelts are equipped with pyrotechnic pretensioners and force limiters, with two pyrotechnic pretensioners for the passenger seatbelt. This feature holds the occupant more firmly in the seat and thus absorbs sudden deceleration more effectively. At the rear, the side seatbelts are fitted with force limiters.

All the belts are fitted with a warning sensor, very useful when carrying children, for example, and a presence detection system for the front passenger seat. To alert the driver and passengers, the three seatbelt warning lights are positioned in the centre of the dashboard in order to make the readout more visible. Moreover, if seatbelts are not attached, a buzzer sounds as soon as the vehicle reaches a speed of 15 kph.

Seats: making safety and comfort indissociable 

The studies conducted on seat design played a key role in optimising comfort and safety. In addition to offering excellent support, the seats of the Citroën C5 provide close protection. The passenger seat frame is reinforced to limit the impact of submarining in the event of impact. At the rear, the two side seats are equipped with Isofix anchor points.

The concept of interior space takes on new proportions 

Looking beyond the high standards set by the Citroën C5 in terms of styling and innovative equipment to enhance safety and driving pleasure, the car also features a level of interior comfort worthy of the next segment up, particularly in terms of acoustics.

This comfort is also reflected in the spacious passenger compartment and generous boot volume – particularly in the estate version – thus placing the C5 one step ahead of the competition.

A spacious interior 

The Citroën C5 is aimed at customers who have stringent requirements in terms of interior space. It seeks to satisfy their requirements through interior dimensions that are more than generous for a vehicle in this segment. No compromises were made in the design of the welcoming passenger compartment, which features generous head room, remarkable space at the front, and an exceptionally spacious passenger area at the rear, combined with a flat floor.

Elbow room is the best in the segment – 1.52 m at the front and 1.54 m at the rear – contributing to the outstanding interior space.

The combination of a raised driving position and a useful length of 1.72 m also make the Citroën C5 one of the most spacious vehicles in its category.

The C5 combines record interior space with a wide range of towage options. The dashboard, doors and seats all feature roomy and convenient stowage units. Two other stowage compartments are available in the side of the boot.

A boot worthy of a high-volume estate 

This exceptional interior space goes hand-in-hand with generous stowage for luggage, and easy access, with the rear window opening independently of the tailgate. More than 1,170 mm wide, the boot offers a capacity of 471 litres for the saloon version, and 563 litres for the estate. This makes the Citroën C5 one of the best estates in its category, notably in terms of loading. Moreover, the modular rear seats increase the volume to 1,658 litres. The available space may be increased still further by removing the rear seat cushions. The rear seat backs feature an additional function in the shape of a ski flap. The structure of the vehicle ensures that all the loading space can be used. The boot is flat and regular in shape with a wide opening (1,176 mm at the sill). Maximum head room is 913 mm and 481 mm under the parcel shelf.

To make loading easy, the Citroën C5 Estate brings customers a unique function: a rear sill of variable height. This function is available when the vehicle is stationary and the engine turned off. The minimum rear sill height is 493 mm, the normal height 568 mm and the maximum height 653 mm.

The Citroën C5 makes travelling a more enjoyable experience

Fully automatic air conditioning 

Looking beyond the upgraded materials, the Citroën C5 features fully automatic air conditioning. Fitted as standard across the range, the air conditioning is available in two versions: single-zone or two-zone, with separate temperature and air flow controls.

The single-zone version offers the comfort of automatic operation: the temperature of the passenger compartment is regulated automatically on the basis of the temperature selected. As a result, the temperature inside the car remains steady, regardless of weather conditions.

The second two-zone version satisfies the requirements of front passengers in terms of individual comfort. The driver and passenger can modulate the temperature and air flow independently.

Complementing the air conditioning, a sun sensor measures the strength of the sun’s rays at the front of the vehicle, on both the right- and left-hand sides.

The sun sensor allows the air conditioning to offset the impact of solar radiation by automatically varying the distribution and temperature of the air flow.

These air conditioning units are equipped with a moisture sensor to prevent the passenger compartment from fogging up, and a pollen filter combined with a layer of activated carbon to further isolate the passenger compartment from certain exterior pollutant agents.

Along with the automatic air conditioning, the Citroën C5 offers a heat-reflecting windscreen on all versions.

JBL acoustics: a high-spec audio system 

The Citroën C5 may be equipped with a radio featuring a mono-tuner/CD drive 4x10W with six loudspeakers. A dual-tuner diversity option with an MP3-compatible CD-drive, offering better RDS tracking, is also available on some markets.

The radio systems available on the Citroën C5 may be coupled with a 6-CD stacker located under the front passenger seat. This stacker can also be controlled by the NaviDrive system.

The Citroën C5 also offers customers a system designed by a leading hi-fi acoustics specialist: JBL. The sound surrounds all the occupants, giving the impression of a far larger area of propagation. The system is in perfect harmony with the passenger compartment of the Citroën C5. With total power of 240 watts, it comprises eight loudspeakers in eight different locations.

This JBL system can be coupled with the MP3 dualtuner RD4 radio or with the colour NaviDrive system. This last system groups a range of functions on a single panel: audio system (radio and CD), telephone and navigation, together with voice synthesis and recognition capabilities. This new-generation system was also designed to provide additional services: Citroën Emergency, Citroën Local Assistance, and Citroën On-Line.

Looking beyond this equipment, which contributes to the well-being of both driver and passengers, Citroën has made the Citroën C5 a car of exceptional ride comfort, on a par with its ambitions.

Road manners and ride comfort for demanding customers

 One of the objectives set out in the specifications of the Citroën C5 was to achieve a high level of acoustic comfort and suspension comfort for a pleasant ride.

Reference acoustic comfort with laminated side windows 

Traditionally reserved for the next market segment up, laminated side windows play a major part in filtering out wind noise and exterior noise for high-level acoustic comfort. This security feature could gain the Citroën C5 a five-star rating from Thatcham.

The laminated side window with reinforced acoustic insulation is made up of two sheets of glass, assembled using plastic films of excellent acoustic properties. This system absorbs sound vibrations over a wide range of frequencies, offering an excellent level of performance in terms of acoustic insulation.

In the event of accidental breakage or a break-in, the glass sticks to the plastic films and remains in place. The glass and plastic windows are virtually impenetrable. This prevents injury in the event of breakage, as well as providing a barrier to stop people or objects from being thrown out of the car in the event of an accident, and offering efficient protection against vandalism and break-ins.

Insulation: a key factor in acoustic comfort 

Associated with the laminated side windows, other factors also contribute to the sound-proofing of the passenger compartment against exterior air, engine and water noise.

At the front, the effective soundproofing under the bonnet filters out noise rising up from the engine compartment. The scuttle vent includes a particularly efficient absorbent material to limit – for example – noise rising up through the air conditioning system.

The passenger compartment too includes special insulation materials, particularly the dashboard, which features a foam whose insulating and absorbent properties filter out noise out more effectively. The harnesses and, more particularly, the grommets linking the cabin and engine compartment have been specially treated for effective insulation.

At the rear, the use of foam, felt and lining parts, particularly in the wheel arches, provides additional acoustic comfort on the Citroën C5.

Suspension comfort

The C5 offers unequalled overall suspension comfort, notably in terms of damping comfort and road handling, vibrations and percussion noise.

Development studies focused on the front suspension. This is based on a hydraulic MacPherson-type strut comprising a Sub Frame fixed at four points to the structure by means of elastic couplings. The rear wishbone mounting shins are specially adapted to ensure ride refirement.

The rear suspension comprises a cross-member, cast-iron trailing arms, an anti-roll bar and four shims whose variable flexibility effectively filters out the imperfections of the road surface.

Like all Citroën’s high-spec saloons and estates, the Citroën C5 features hydraulic suspension. Fitted with identical cylinders (diameter 40 mm) on the saloon and the estate, this suspension adapts vehicle height to speed, driving style and road conditions. Highly reliable, the suspension requires no maintenance for five years or 200,000 km.

The advanced « hydractive plus » suspension available with the HDi 136 DPFS and 3.0i V6 engines adopts a new approach to the choice of setting. The emphasis is placed more on soft mode rather than firm mode, for increased comfort. The changeover from one setting to the other depends on five parameters: acceleration setting, engine torque, braking, angular speed steering wheel, and body movement. These parameters have been specially adapted to make the Citroën C5 a reference in its segment in terms of ride comfort. A sports mode remains available. This mode eliminates slight movements of the vehicle body, adding the final touch to the car’s remarkable dynamic behaviour and stability.

The hydraulic suspension also attenuates steering vibrations on the hydraulic power steering, which is adapted to each engine.

The Citroën C5 features two types of variable power steering. The first coupled with an electric pump unit, is available with the 2.0 petrol and diesel engines. The second is a servotronic system on the 3.0i V6, managed by an electronic control unit that uses a solenoid valve to adapt the pressure in a continuous system in line with a control law.

Precise, flexible and steadfast in all circumstances, the steering of the Citroën C5 effectively positions the front wheel when cornering, giving the driver an impression of ease and safety.

The Citroën C5 offers strong arguments in the areas of driving pleasure, comfort and well-being.

Sixteen-inch tyres for the whole range ! 

The Citroën C5 adopts high-performance tyres as standard across the range, with the Michelin Primacy, dimensions: 215/55 R16. These tyres make a significant contribution to vibration control, road manners, steering comfort and braking distances.