Launch Drive: Nip and Tucked Citroen C5 Aircross

Citroen has after 3 years of returning to South Africa now refreshed their popular C5 Aircross and it now boasts fresher looks and specification. We recently drove the nip and tucked C-SUV at the media launch.

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Exterior Design

The refreshed SUV benefits from a new front design with LED headlamps which include V-shaped daytime-running lights. A new front bumper has also been included, and it now includes a new functional air intake. Rounding up the front fascia is the addition of a new front skid plate.

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The C5 Aircross now sports new 18-inch diamond cut alloy wheels which look quite smart. The exterior improvements are rounded up by the addition of piano-key effect taillights which include LED technology. Overall, we were quite impressed with the exterior improvements to the refreshed model.

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Interior Design

The Interior is where the C5 Aircross has undergone the most changes. Behind the steering wheel is a new 12.3-inch TFT cluster. The infotainment system now comprises a 10.0-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. An integrated navigation system is also fitted. The air vents are now positioned below the infotainment touchscreen. Two USB-A ports are present up front, with one port on offer at the rear.

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The centre console now comprises an e-toggle shifter which frees up space and enhances a more minimalistic appearance.

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Versatility is made possible by a third row of seats which is made up of three individual sliding seats. Rear space is not the most generous for taller adults however passengers of a smaller stature should be fine.

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Engine and Power

Only one engine is on offer for the Citroen C5 Aircross range; a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine which is capable of 121kW and 240Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine produces more than sufficient power for the vehicle. Whether driving in urban areas or on the open road, we couldn’t find any faults with the engine or transmission.

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Comfort is particularly quite impressive, with the C5 Aircross dealing with road imperfections quite well. The 230mm of ground clearance was appreciated by us as we drove on an 11km long gravel road. The suspension managed to do a respectable job of dealing with the harsh undulations.

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Pricing

Two model derivatives are on offer and they are priced as follows:

• Citroen C5 Aircross Feel – R633,900

• Citroen C5 Aircross Shine – R683,900

With competition being quite rife in this segment of SUVs, the Citroen offers itself an advantage thanks to a really well-packaged vehicle with pricing that may be appealing to consumers considering its impressive specification.