The first generation Citroen C5 debuted in 2001. In 2004, it underwent restyling. The most obvious differences are the shape of the front and rear lighting equipment. During production, more than 720,000 copies were created.
The pre-restyling and restyled versions of the Citroen C5 I took part in Euro NCAP crash tests. In 2001, the French car earned 4 stars, and in 2004 - already five.
Engines
Gasoline
R4 1.8i / 115 hp (EW7/2001-2005)
R4 1.8i / 125 hp (EW7 / 2005-2008)
R4 2.0i / 136 hp (EW10 / 2001-2004)
R4 2.0 HPi / 136 hp (EW10 / 2001-2003)
R4 2.0i / 140 hp (EW10 / 2004-2008)
V6 3.0i / 207 hp (ES9/2001-2008)
Diesel
R4 1.6 HDi FAP / 109 hp (DV 6 / 2004-2008)
R4 2.0 HDi / 90 hp (DW10 / 2002-2004)
R4 2.0 HDi / 109 hp (DW10 / 2001-2004)
R4 2.0 HDi FAP / 107 hp (DW10 / 2002-2004)
R4 2.0 HDi FAP / 136 hp (DW10 / 2004-2008)
R4 2.2 HDi FAP / 133 hp (DW12/2002-2005)
R4 2.2 HDi / 125 hp (DW12/2006-2008)
The small engines - the 1.8 petrol and 1.6 HDi diesel - lack traction at high speeds. This Citroen C5 barely accelerates even in 4th gear. Gasoline engines with a displacement of 2.0 liters and 3.0 liters behave much more confidently. But they are more expensive to maintain, especially the latter. A 3-liter unit with an automatic transmission consumes about 12-13 liters per 100 km at a calm pace.
A common problem with gasoline units is that the ignition coils are not very durable (5-7 thousand rubles apiece). In addition, with age, oil leaks appear - most often from under the valve covers. It is worth noting that replacing the timing belt of a 3-liter V6 costs 20-30 thousand rubles (you have to disassemble a lot of things). The 2.0 HPI (direct injection) engine was so unsuccessful that it subsequently had to be abandoned.
Among diesel engines, the 2-liter has proven itself best. It is simple from a technical point of view, reliable and easy to repair. The 2.2 HDi performed slightly worse. More modern 16-valve turbodiesels that appeared after restyling turned out to be very economical, but sensitive to fuel quality. After 200,000 km, replacement of the dual-mass flywheel, turbocharger and injectors is inevitable. In addition, diesel engines have such malfunctions as failure of the air flow meter, exhaust gas recirculation system and other components that are inexpensive to fix. However, the cost of several such repairs can add up to be significant.
In the 1.6 HDi, the oil should be changed more often, as the liners and turbocharger wear out quickly. Another typical malfunction is timing chain stretching.
The prefix FAP in the designation of a diesel engine means the presence of a wet particulate filter that requires maintenance. As a rule, its resource does not exceed 180-200 thousand km.
Transmission
The engines were paired with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic (AL4). For the 3-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine, instead of the AL4, a 4-speed ZF 4HP20 automatic transmission was offered, and after restyling, the V6 was combined exclusively with a 6-speed automatic transmission manufactured by Aisin (AM6).
Restyled diesel versions began to be equipped with a 6-speed manual and AM6, except for the 133-horsepower 2.2 HDi FAP (2004-2005), which was offered with the ZF 4HP20. The basic version with 1.6 HDi was equipped only with a 5-speed manual transmission.
Now is the time to mention something that bothers many owners of a Citroen C5 with a manual transmission. We are talking about the inaccurate operation of the gear selection mechanism. Unfortunately, the problem gets worse as mileage increases. Determining which gear is engaged is becoming increasingly difficult. The mechanism will have to be replaced. The clutch lasts more than 200,000 km. The cost of a new set is about 7,000 rubles.
Among automatic transmissions, the Japanese Aisin and the German ZF enjoy a good reputation. The French AL4 causes the most criticism. It begins to push strongly towards 150-200 thousand km. In the best case, you will be able to get away with replacing the solenoids; in the worst case, you will have to replace the valve body. Deeper repairs will be needed after 200-250 thousand km, for which you should stock up on the amount of 50-70 thousand rubles.
Chassis
Even when 4 well-fed gentlemen with suitcases sit in the Citroen C5 (with the engine running), the car will, of course, sag at first, but after a while it will return to its normal position. Constant ground clearance, regardless of load, is ensured by the Hydroactive III hydropneumatic suspension, an in-house development of Citroen. Hydropneumatic elements play the role of shock absorbers and coil springs.
The ground clearance is adjusted by two buttons on the central tunnel. The driver can select one of four levels: normal, low, for unpaved roads and high. That's not all. In a normal position, after exceeding a speed of 110 km/h, the front suspension sags by 15 mm, and the rear by 11 mm. As soon as the speed drops below 90 km/h, the ground clearance returns to its original position. If the road is bumpy and rutted, the car will automatically raise by 13 mm in front and rear (additional mode on restyled models).
The improved version with “Hydroactive III+” has a “Sport” button between the two mode control buttons. If you press it, the car will roll and sway less. But even in normal mode, body vibrations are small. In addition, Hydroactive III+ can automatically switch to sport mode, depending on the amount of acceleration or body roll.
Technically, “Hydroactive III+” is distinguished by six spheres (balls) filled with nitrogen, while the regular version has four spheres. However, in both cases, the Citroen C5 is a comfortable car, without compromising stability and handling.
It is noteworthy that the hydropneumatic suspension and steering share the same supply of LDS hydraulic fluid. However, each system has its own pump.
Unfortunately, hydropneumatic suspension repairs are not cheap. Typical faults: leaking spheres, failure of the main BHI pump and suspension sensors. The cost of a new original sphere is from 2,000 rubles, and the pump (module) is over 50,000 rubles. Often the pump can be repaired, or you will have to look for a used module - around 20,000 rubles. Sensors can sometimes be revived after cleaning and lubrication.
If the suspension is serviced regularly, it should easily last 200,000 km. After this, it is necessary to replace the synthetic LDS fluid, despite the fact that Citroen does not recommend this. As a result of diffusion, the nitrogen pressure in the spheres decreases and the suspension becomes less comfortable. This is especially felt on the rear axle. But before replacing the fluid, you should check the condition of the hydraulic system lines. They often rust after 10-12 years of use.
The front suspension is a MacPherson design, and the rear has swing arms (something between a torsion beam and a multi-link design). With age, the rear control arm bearings wear out. Water penetrates through aged seals and corrosion occurs. When worn, a knocking, crunching or squeaking sound appears.
The parking brake also received a non-standard solution. It engages the front wheels. With age, its mechanism often sours, which leads to incomplete release of the wheel. To avoid problems, the mechanism should be periodically maintained: cleaned, developed and lubricated.
The steering rack may require attention after 170-220 thousand km - a knock or leak appears. The cost of a repair kit is from 4,000 rubles, and a new rack - from 43,000 rubles.
Body and interior
The body of the Citroen C5 is well protected from corrosion. Red spots can sometimes be found on brake lines.
The French car will pleasantly surprise those who like to receive a lot of information and value functionality. On the dashboard there is a coolant temperature indicator, and in more advanced versions - a voltmeter and an oil temperature indicator. Only the basic version of X does not have the Black Panel function, i.e. dimming unnecessary lights in the cabin at night. Double sun visors. This means that the driver will not have to juggle one visor when the sun is low. In good lighting conditions, the backlighting of the climate control controls is difficult to see.
The plastic used in the interior is of very good quality. However, it is sensitive to scratches. The front panel looks very aesthetically pleasing, but the ergonomics have suffered. Operating the dual-zone climate control requires some skill, especially the procedure for turning off the air conditioner, which cannot be done at the touch of a button. The standard CD changer in complete copies was installed under the passenger seat. Its disadvantage is careless handling of disks. He just scratches them.
In a hatchback, the trunk shelf can be folded behind the back of the sofa. This is a very useful feature when there is a need to transport something large. In other cars, drivers don't know what to do with a removed shelf. In station wagons, the trunk door glass opens separately. Please note that the glass lock often breaks. When loading into the trunk with the engine off, the rear suspension squats slightly, making loading and unloading easier.
Electronics
The electronics of the Citroen C5 sometimes bring surprises. But after restyling in 2004, the situation improved significantly.
The BSI comfort module fails due to corrosion of the electrical connections, moisture ingress or improper repair. If it fails, problems arise with the windows, central locking and immobilizer, the “Christmas tree” on the dashboard lights up, or the hydropneumatic suspension stops functioning correctly. The block of pre-restyling versions is considered more reliable and repairable. After restyling, they began to install a unit with a circuit board filled with compound, which complicates repairs. In most cases, the BSI block can be revived by resoldering resistors. As a last resort, you will have to look for a used block, and it costs about 40,000 rubles.
Another sore spot is the steering column switch module. For example, the direction indicators stop turning on.
An indispensable attribute of luxury equipment are xenon headlights. Fortunately, there are few problems with them. Experience shows that the plastic lenses of such headlights become cloudy much more slowly than those of many competitors.
Climate system
Problems with the climate control system are also common. In restyled copies, the dampers break. Subsequently, the manufacturer modernized them, but the reinforced dampers could last only 2-3 years. In the pre-restyling version, the dampers do not break, but they cut off the splines in the damper drive mechanism.
The heater fan may not turn on due to a failure of the heater unit. It is possible to restore functionality after replacing the resistor - from 2,000 rubles. It is worth noting that worn fan brushes contribute to the rapid demise of the resistor.
Conclusion
Citroen C5 is one of those cars that must be checked at a service center before purchasing. This will help avoid additional costs. C5 can be recommended to those who can afford regular maintenance. For this, the owner will be rewarded with excellent comfort.
It began at a plant in Rennes, France in 2001. The car had versions with liftback and station wagon bodies.
The Citroen C5 retains the hydropneumatic suspension characteristic of large cars. The third generation Hydractive system became structurally simpler and more reliable and was still devoid of springs and shock absorbers - their role was played by hydraulic cylinders and hydraulic accumulator spheres.
The range of power units consisted of 1.8, 2.0 and V6 3.0 petrol engines, as well as 2.0 and 2.2 liter turbodiesels. Gearboxes - mechanical or automatic.
In 2004, the Citroen C5 model was restyled, as a result of which the car received an updated body design, upgraded engines and a new 1.6-liter diesel engine.
Production of first-generation cars continued until 2008, with a total of 720 thousand copies of the model produced.
| Version | Engine model | engine's type | Volume, cm3 | Power, l. With.Note | |
| EW7A | R4, petrol | 1749 | 113 | 2001-2004 | |
| EW7 E4 | R4, petrol | 1749 | 124 | 2004-2008 | |
| EW10 J4 | R4, petrol | 1997 | 134 | 2001-2004 | |
| EW10 D | R4, petrol | 1997 | 138 | 2001-2004, immediate injection | |
| EW10A | R4, petrol | 1997 | 138 | 2004-2008 | |
| ES9 J4 | V6, petrol | 2946 | 204 | 2001-2004 | |
| ES9 A | V6, petrol | 2946 | 211 | 2004-2008 | |
| Citroen C5 1.6 HDi | DV6 TED | R4, diesel, turbo | 1560 | 108 | 2004-2008 |
| Citroen C5 2.0 HDi | DW10TD | R4, diesel, turbo | 1997 | 90 | 2001-2004 |
| Citroen C5 2.0 HDi | DW10 ATED | R4, diesel, turbo | 1997 | 109 | 2002-2004 |
| Citroen C5 2.0 HDi | DW10 BTED | R4, diesel, turbo | 1997 | 136 | 2004-2008 |
| Citroen C5 2.2 HDi | DW12 BTED | R4, diesel, turbo | 2179 | 131 | 2001-2006 |
| Citroen C5 2.2 HDi | DW12 BTED | R4, diesel, turbo | 2179 | 131 / 168 | 2001-2006 |
2nd generation, 2007–2016
The second generation of the Citroen C5 model has been produced since 2008 in France (production of cars for the local market is also organized in China). There are two body styles in the model range - sedan and station wagon.
The design of the Citroen C5 is based on the PF3 platform, also used in the model. Basic versions of the car have a traditional spring suspension, while more expensive versions have the hydropneumatic suspension typical of Citroens.
The cars are equipped with 1.6 (including turbocharged), 1.8, 2.0 and V6 3.0 petrol engines, developing from 120 to 211 hp. With. The choice of turbodiesels is no less wide - 1.6, 2.0, 2.2, V6 2.7 and V6 3.0 with a power of 109–240 horsepower.
Depending on the modification, the Citroen C5 can be equipped with a manual transmission, a six-speed EGS robotic gearbox, a four-speed automatic transmission from the Renault-PSA joint venture, or a six-speed automatic transmission from Aisin.
In 2010, the model was slightly restyled, and at the same time the car received modernized power units.
In Russia, the Citroen C5 was officially sold until 2016. We were supplied with both sedans and station wagons (including the pseudo-off-road CrossTourer), equipped with gasoline or diesel engines. The latest copies of the model were offered at a price of 970 thousand rubles for a sedan with a 120-horsepower engine.
Citroen C5 engine table
| Version | Engine model | engine's type | Volume, cm3 | Power, l. With.Note | |
| Citroen C5 1.6VTi | EP6C | R4, petrol | 1598 | 120 | 2010- |
| Citroen C5 1.6 THP | EP6CDT | R4, petrol, turbo | 1598 | 156 | 2010- |
| EW7A | R4, petrol | 1749 | 125 | 2008- | |
| EW10A | R4, petrol | 1997 | 140 | 2008- | |
| ES9A | V6, petrol | 2946 | 211 | 2008- | |
| Citroen C5 1.6 HDi | DV6/DV10 | R4, diesel, turbo | 1560 | 109 / 114 | 2008- |
| Citroen C5 2.0 HDi | DW10 | R4, diesel, turbo | 1997 | 136 / 140 / 150 / 163 / 181 | 2008- |
| Citroen C5 2.2 HDi | DW12 | R4, diesel, turbo | 2179 | 170 / 204 | 2008- |
| Citroen C5 2.7 HDi | DT17 | V6, diesel, turbo | 2721 | 204 | 2008- |
| Citroen C5 3.0 HDi | DT20 | V6, diesel, turbo | 2992 | 240 | 2009- |
The French manufacturer is known for its practical, easy-to-use and generally reliable machines. A significant contribution to the formation of this opinion among fans of the brand was made by the “C5” model, which was produced in such versions as hatchback and station wagon. Although the car was developed as a replacement for the typical European Xsara model, it received a lot of very original additions. In particular, what made it stand out from the general mass of hatchbacks was the oval shape of the radiator trim with a chrome logo. The suspension of the Citroen C5, based on hydropneumatics, also stood out noticeably already in the first generation. In addition, the model has always been famous for its rich equipment - the list of electronic assistants and auxiliary accessories provided a serious technological advantage over competitors.
Main technical characteristics
The basic design parameters played a significant role in the success of this car on the market. The car turned out to be spacious, roomy and at the same time not lacking in maneuverability on the road. One way or another, the Citroen C5, the technical characteristics of which are presented below, harmoniously fits into the general palette of the French vehicle fleet:
- Length - 474.5 cm.
- Height - 147.6 cm.
- Machine width - 178 cm.
- Ground clearance - 15 cm.
- Wheel platform - 275 cm.
- The front track width is 149.5 cm.
- The rear track width is 152.8 cm.
- Luggage compartment volume - 1249 l.
- Tank capacity - 66 l.
- Curb weight - 1290 kg.
- Transmission - 5-speed manual transmission.
- Drive - front.
Separately, it is worth mentioning the suspension, represented by the Hydractive III system. Initially, the configuration included Comfort and Sport operating modes, but as the update progressed through numerous restylings, other capabilities of the Citroen C5 were also improved. The technical characteristics of the suspension are determined by independent hydraulic elements capable of changing the clearance dimensions from 90 to 250 mm. Moreover, the working life of this mechanism is 200 thousand km.
Characteristics of the motor range
As standard, the model is equipped with a two-liter gasoline unit producing 138 hp. With. Due to this power, a rather large hatchback is capable of reaching “hundreds” in just 12 seconds. In this case, the maximum is provided at 200 km/h. But something else is noteworthy here - the ability to maintain clarity and confident responsiveness of the accelerator during any dynamic tests. There is also a more powerful version of the Citroen C5 engine, the technical characteristics of which are expressed by a volume of 2.2 liters, as well as a power potential of 173 liters. With. There are different opinions regarding the advisability of such equipment, but for the most part, users note the organic combination of the massive structure of the car and an engine with decent power. Of course, this unit does not give the model the qualities of an all-terrain vehicle, and it does not have the best effect on fuel consumption, but it does give you confidence on the highway.
It should be noted that the sedan version of the French model is equipped with a 1.6-liter engine as standard. The Citroen C5 station wagon, the photo of which is presented below, is not particularly different in terms of power filling capabilities.
Characteristics of the Cross Tourer modification
Almost every representative of the global automobile industry who is of at least some significant interest to the consumer receives off-road modifications. And this model was no exception. There is no need to talk about a full transition to the status of an SUV, but all-wheel drive with a powerful engine was enough for a noticeable transformation of the Citroen C5. The technical characteristics of the power unit, by the way, look quite decent - with a volume of 2.2 liters, the installation provides 204 liters. With.
To cope with such a filling, a more advanced one was required. The designers gave preference to a 6-speed automatic transmission. As a result, the operation of the machine is characterized by a smooth ride without excessive activity at the bottom. But the Cross Tourer developers didn’t stop there. The modification acquired 18-inch wheels, extended fenders, and also received aluminum and chrome inserts in the mirrors. Overall, the result is a hybrid version of an SUV and a classic Citroen C5 sedan. The photo of the Cross Tourer modification presented below clearly demonstrates the slightly brutal and aggressive external image of the car.
Positive reviews about the model
At the top of the list of advantages are such qualities as handling, comfort, well-thought-out electronics with helpers and assistants, spaciousness and good sound insulation. French designers initially focused on providing convenience. Actually, this advantage has become the main advantage of all versions of the Citroen C5. Reviews note not only ergonomic advantages in the form of a comfortable interior, adjustment mechanisms and a grippy steering wheel, but also the landing. literally smooths out all the unevenness, resulting in comfort for both the driver and passengers.
Negative reviews about the model
There were some drawbacks too. Most of them relate to little things, but, as practice shows, they largely shape the user experience. So, what doesn’t suit the owners of the Citroen C5? Reviews note the lack of modern heating systems, poor audio preparation, poor brush function and a wide turning radius. There are some complaints about the engine range, but overall it deserves approval. All configuration flaws are compensated by acceptable fuel consumption.
There is one more nuance that may discourage the desire to purchase such a car. This is a cost that is greatly inflated compared to many competitors of the Citroen C5 car. The price varies from 1.4 to 1.6 million rubles. for the sedan version.
Conclusion
European cars are traditionally associated by domestic car enthusiasts with quality and comfort. But when it comes to practical choice, a demanding client will certainly study all the nuances of the product. And at this stage, problems of a different nature may appear - this could be a lack of adaptation to our conditions, problems in the gearbox, or a shortage of original spare parts on the Russian market. It is important to note that the Citroen C5 is practically free from such problems. The price of 1.5 million rubles is, of course, comparable to some premium models, but it should be taken into account that serious savings will be noticeable during the maintenance of this machine. Despite the finishing defects and shortcomings in the heating systems, this car is equipped with a very high-quality component base. The designers did a great job on the suspension and other components and assemblies, which rarely cause problems during operation.
The French sedan is equipped with a proprietary hydropneumatic suspension, Hydractive III+, which ensures safe and comfortable driving. It automatically adapts to road conditions and driving style and allows you to maintain a constant level of ground clearance, regardless of the load. The suspension has two main stiffness modes: soft and hard, which allows you to choose between dynamism and comfort. There's also a Sport mode for more spirited driving, allowing you to enjoy driving at high speeds.
The interior of the Citroen C5 is spacious and very comfortable. The design of the car provides high-quality sound insulation. Multilayer sound-absorbing glass of a special design consists of two ordinary glasses and one plastic glass to minimize the penetration of extraneous sounds. The doors are triple sealed and special sound-absorbing materials are used around noise sources (such as the engine). All this will allow you to enjoy a friendly conversation or listening to music during your trip instead of annoying ambient noise.
It uses not a conventional parking brake, but an electric parking brake. It automatically turns on when the engine is turned off and automatically turns off when you press the gas pedal. If you need to activate the parking brake while the engine is running, for example, when stopping on a downhill, there is a button on the center console for this. In addition, the electric parking brake is combined with hill start assist for added driving comfort and increased safety.
