First Drive
Citroën C5 HDi V6 Exclusive
Test date 03 April 2008
Price as tested £24,595
What is it?
The flagship version of Citroen’s handsome Mondeo-class model, and one which sets new standards of style and interior quality for a C5.
Indeed, some would say it looks as good as the much-admired (and much pricier) C6. The range-topping motor is only available with full-on ‘Exclusive’ trim, meaning all the gubbins: parking sensors, electric seats, laminated side glass, mood lighting and much more.
What’s it like?
Typical big Citroen, but better executed than ever. Low seating, soft Hydractive 3 oil-gas suspension and fantastic body control when cruising fast on lumpy motorways. No other car is as good at diffusing big bumps, though you have to be prepared to concede some surface rumble, a traditional foible of this system through the years.
Steering is quite firm and seems to suffer a little “stiction” compared with the Peugeot-related system that accompanied new steel-suspended C5 versions lower down the range, but advantage is brilliant hands-off stability, even at 100 mph.
The engine is refined and gives pretty decent economy, with consumption around 35 mpg being perfectly possible day-to-day, despite the standard-fit six-speed auto.
The only downside is the car’s weight – a stonking 1766kg – which serves to blunt acceleration, despite the engine’s best efforts. Fortunately the transmission’s tall ratios and the motor’s plentiful mid-range puff make it a supremely relaxed high-speed cruiser.
Should I buy one?
A cautious ‘yes’ to this one – with several provisos. Plusher versions of big Citroens have always suffered from resale issues, and although residual experts CAP reckon this one will do far better come resale time, the case isn’t proven yet.
But if you’re looking for the long term – or if the firm is paying – the V6 C5 is a great way to schlep around. Otherwise, wait and see how the residuals settle down. It will be a fantastic three-year-old buy, though.
Steve Cropley
First drive data
How much?
- Price as tested £24,595
- Price as tested £24,395
How fast?
- 0-62 mph 9.6 sec
- Max speed 139 mph
How big?
How thirsty?
- Combined 33.6 mpg
- CO2 emissions 208 g/km
Engine
- Layout V6 , 2721 cc
- Max power 208 bhp at 4000 rpm
- Max torque 325 lb ft at 1900 rpm
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