Following the trend of automakers increasing the size of screens in cars, Citroen is introducing its new C5 Aircross. Its main attraction is the 13-inch infotainment display, the largest among the 14 brands of Stellantis. This portrait-oriented screen, which dominates the center of the dashboard, combines a 10-inch digital instrument cluster and a height-adjustable color head-up display. However, the physical buttons and drive mode selector are retained, ensuring user convenience without moving everything to the touchscreen.
Updated design and larger dimensions
The second-generation C5 Aircross is built on Stellantis' STLA medium platform, which shares many components with the Jeep Compass. Measuring 183.1 inches long and with a 109.6-inch wheelbase, the model is wider than its predecessor, offering 5.9 inches longer and a 2.36-inch wheelbase increase. This provides more legroom and comfort for rear passengers. It is the first Citroën production model to come with 20-inch wheels, but DS Automobiles’ 21-inch wheels add a note to its claim.
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Modern suspension and high-tech features
The C5 Aircross shines as Citroën’s flagship model, offering matrix LED headlights and a “Magic Carpet” suspension system with progressive hydraulic cushions. This clever suspension uses two shock absorbers—one for compression and the other for rebound—to better handle road imperfections. Along with funky, boxy styling, these features make the C5 Aircross competitive in the luxury segment.
A variety of powertrains
The new C5 Aircross eschews diesel engines and instead offers mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full-electric options. The base model features a 1.2-liter turbo three-cylinder engine (136 hp) paired with a 0.9-kWh battery for an extra 12 hp. The plug-in hybrid combines a 1.6-liter turbo engine with a 125 hp electric motor (195 hp) for an electric range of 53 miles. Full-electric variants are available with 73-kWh (210 hp, 323 miles of range) or 97-kWh (230 hp, 423 miles of range) batteries.
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Charging and Performance
The electric C5 Aircross supports 160 kW DC fast charging, while the plug-in hybrid can charge up to 7.4 kW. The plug-in hybrid’s 21-kWh battery provides more than 62 miles of electric range in the city and up to 404 miles on the highway. This variety of powertrains ensures that modern drivers have options that balance eco-friendliness and performance.
Arrival in Europe and future plans
The C5 Aircross will go on sale in Europe in the second half of 2025, but Citroën is not entering the American market. Instead, French brand Renault plans to return to North America later this decade with its Alpine performance brand. The C5 Aircross is set to appeal to European customers with Citroën’s distinctive styling and cutting-edge technology.
