Citroen C5
Citroen C5 technical data
Select Citroen C5 generation for full details - reviews, specifications, fuel consumption, pricing, quality and safety features, options, photos and more
Citroen C5 is a mid-size family car introduced in 2000 as the successor to the Citroen Xantia. Over its production life it evolved through two main generations and several body styles, including liftback, sedan, and station wagon. The model was positioned in the European D-segment and became known for emphasizing ride comfort and advanced suspension technology.
The first generation (2001–2008) was built on PSA’s PF3 platform and offered a wide range of petrol and diesel engines from 1.8 to 2.9 liters. Power outputs ranged from around 110 to over 210 horsepower depending on the engine. One of its defining technical features was the Hydractive hydropneumatic suspension system, which automatically adjusted ride height and damping to improve comfort and stability. In 2004 the model received a facelift with updated styling, improved electronics, and revised engines.
The second generation, introduced in 2008, adopted a more conventional sedan and wagon design with significantly improved interior quality. Engine options included modern turbocharged petrol units and efficient HDi diesel engines up to 2.7- and later 3.0-liter V6 variants. Higher trims continued to offer the Hydractive III+ suspension system, while entry versions used traditional suspension. The model emphasized quiet long-distance travel, solid build quality, and a wide range of comfort and safety equipment.
In user reviews, the Citroen C5 is often remembered as a car built for covering long distances with minimal fatigue. Owners frequently praise the smooth ride provided by the hydropneumatic suspension and the stable feel at highway speeds. Diesel engines are commonly highlighted for their torque and efficiency during long journeys. As cons some drivers mention complex suspension maintenance on older cars, infotainment systems that can feel dated today, and a driving character that prioritizes comfort far more than sportiness. For many owners, however, its relaxed cruising ability remains the car’s defining charm.
Is Citroen C5 a reliable car?
The Citroen C5 is not a very reliable car. 70% of other cars of the same age are found to have fewer defects than the Citroen C5 in annual roadworthiness tests.
Based on annual roadworthiness tests results, the Citroen C5 generation produced from 2000 to 2004 received the highest reliability ratings, while the models produced from 2008 to 2012 had the lowest reliability ratings, reliability scores vary quite significantly between generations of Citroen C5. For more information, check the respective generation information.
Citroen C5 reviews
Total 8 Citroen C5 owner reviews
Pros: A very spacious, solid interior, good visibility and ergonomic placement of controls (in last generation C5 press emergency stop button should be pressed by passenger).
With 65 litres of diesel I have travelled with even 1400 kms (depends on driving manners).
Unrealistically large cargo. The suspension height change, allows to drive places ordinary car could not pass. Hydraulics rules!
Cons: It is not as noticeable as BMW.
| Purchase year: | 2008 age of car 5 years) | Owned for | 200`000 kilometers (8 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 5.7 litres per 100km (40% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 420 € (~ 52 € per year) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: Reliable, quiet, comfortable, great handling, good mileage.
Cons: Doors are low so you have to bend to get in.
| Purchase year: | 2017 age of car 7 years) | Owned for | 110`000 kilometers (4 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 6.5 litres per 100km (30% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 400 € (~ 100 € per year) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: It is a lux class car maintenance is expensive, but car ir great!
Cons: A lot of electronics
| Purchase year: | 2015 age of car 6 years) | Owned for | 9`000 kilometers (1 year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 6.5 litres per 100km (60% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 730 € (~ 730 € per year) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
| Purchase year: | 2015 age of car 5 years) | Owned for | 3`000 kilometers (1 year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 4.5 litres per 100km (40% urban driving) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: Quiet, warm, comfortable
| Purchase year: | 2022 age of car 12 years) | Owned for | 9`000 kilometers (0 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 5.0 litres per 100km (60% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 400 € | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
| Purchase year: | 2007 new car) | Owned for | 270`000 kilometers (16 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 6.7 litres per 100km (60% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 3250 € (~ 203 € per year) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
| Purchase year: | 2020 age of car 11 years) | Owned for | 50`000 kilometers (5 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 6.2 litres per 100km (60% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 750 € (~ 150 € per year) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend