About the Citroen C5 Aircross
AI-generatedThe Citroën C5 Aircross is a stylish and practical mid-size SUV that launched in the UK in 2019. Built on the PSA Group's EMP2 platform, it stands out with distinctive split-level LED lighting, quirky design cues, and Citroën's signature Progressive Hydraulic Cushion suspension system that delivers exceptional ride comfort. Available with a range of petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, it offers seating for five with three individual sliding rear seats that provide excellent versatility. The C5 Aircross competes in the competitive family SUV segment against rivals like the Nissan Qashqai, Peugeot 3008, and Skoda Karoq. It prioritizes comfort over sporty handling, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a relaxed driving experience. The cabin features good build quality with interesting design touches, while practicality is strong with a boot capacity ranging from 580 to 720 litres depending on rear seat position. The plug-in hybrid e-C5 Aircross offers around 30 miles of electric-only range, making it attractive for company car buyers benefiting from low benefit-in-kind tax rates.
Known Issues
Known Issues
First Generation
2019-present
- Infotainment system can be slow to respond and occasionally freezes, requiring a restart
- Some early models experienced issues with the parking sensors giving false warnings
- PureTech petrol engines (1.2 three-cylinder) have known issues with wet timing belts leading to premature wear
- Plug-in hybrid models can suffer from software glitches affecting charging and electric mode operation
- AdBlue system faults on diesel models can trigger warning lights and reduced performance
- Touchscreen connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on early models
- Some owners report excessive tyre wear on the front axle
- Electric parking brake can occasionally fail to release properly in cold weather
Photo by Nantenaina Andrianjaka on Pexels
Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,400-£1,800
Insurance Group
16-24
Average Service
£280-£400
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£22,000 - £28,000
£17,000 - £23,000
£14,000 - £19,000
N/A - N/A
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional ride comfort thanks to Progressive Hydraulic Cushion suspension
- Spacious and versatile cabin with three individual sliding rear seats
- Distinctive styling that stands out from conservative rivals
- Good range of efficient engines including plug-in hybrid option
- Excellent standard equipment levels across the range
- Comfortable seats ideal for long journeys
- Generous boot space with practical loading height
Photo by Efrem Efre on Pexels
Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2022 - Benefited from software updates addressing early infotainment issues, improved build quality, and better availability of the more reliable diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains
- 2023 - Most refined version with all early teething problems resolved, updated safety features, and improved connectivity software
Worst Years
- 2019 - Launch year models suffered from infotainment bugs, parking sensor issues, and were more likely to have the problematic early PureTech engines
- 2020 - Still affected by early PureTech engine timing belt issues and software glitches that were later resolved through updates
Buying Checklist
Engine6 items
- Check service history for timing belt replacement if PureTech 1.2 petrol (should be replaced earlier than standard intervals)
- Listen for timing chain rattle on diesel engines when cold
- On plug-in hybrids, verify the electric motor engages smoothly and battery charges correctly
- Check for AdBlue warning lights on diesel models
- Look for oil leaks around the engine bay, particularly from rocker cover
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The C5 Aircross features Citroën's Advanced Comfort seats with 15mm of extra foam for superior long-distance comfort
You can specify the interior with up to three different fabric/colour combinations across the cabin for a unique look
The Progressive Hydraulic Cushion suspension uses hydraulic bump stops to deliver exceptional ride quality, especially over sharp bumps
The plug-in hybrid version can automatically switch between electric and petrol power using GPS data to optimize efficiency
Alternatives to Consider
Peugeot 3008
7/10Shares the same platform but offers sportier handling, more upmarket interior, and stronger resale values
Skoda Karoq
7/10More reliable, better build quality, stronger dealer network, and available with four-wheel drive
Nissan Qashqai
7/10Proven reliability, more conventional styling, and better resale values with strong dealer support
Owner Tips
- 1Avoid PureTech 1.2 petrol engines from 2019-2020 due to wet timing belt issues - opt for diesel or plug-in hybrid instead
- 2Keep the infotainment software updated through your Citroën dealer to minimize connectivity and performance issues
- 3The rear seats slide and recline individually - experiment with configurations to maximize either legroom or boot space
- 4On plug-in hybrid models, charge regularly to maximize electric running and benefit from low running costs
- 5Check for software updates on the parking sensors if you experience false warnings
- 6The soft suspension is easily damaged by kerbs - be careful when parking
- 7Use the electric parking brake regularly to prevent seizing, especially during winter
- 8Service the AdBlue system according to schedule on diesel models to avoid expensive faults
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