Review: Citroën C5 Aircross Hybrid (2023) – why 6 hp is absolutely worth 3740 euros - AutoReview.nl

What is striking about the Citroën C5 Aircross Hybrid 136?

On the outside we cannot catch the Citroën C5 Aircross doing anything crazy. That is not surprising, because the model was facelifted in 2022. Since then he has looked a lot more sternly out of the headlights, like a blond toddler who has suddenly grown leaden and pitch-black eyebrows - with piercings.

And what about the specifications? If we limit ourselves to the power and torque, it appears that the Hybrid 136 has gained 6 hp. Given the full type designation, no surprise. The number of newton meters is 230, as usual.

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But appearances are deceiving. To start with, Citroën overhauled the 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine. The aim was to optimally adapt it to 48V hybrid technology. According to the manufacturer, 40 percent of the parts are new. For example, it was equipped with a timing chain instead of a belt and the turbo was given a variable geometry. An electrified six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission takes the shifting work off the driver's hands. In addition, a 28 hp electric motor ensures that the car can drive completely electrically and therefore emission-free for short distances.

What is good about the Citroën C5 Aircross Hybrid 136?

According to Citroën, it is possible to drive 50 percent electrically in city traffic. If you don't try to do a Max Verstappen start at every green traffic light, you will probably succeed. We came pretty close during our introduction to the fresh C5 Aircross. This not only ensures a lot of peace on board, but also in your head. You know you don't have to make all ends meet to meet the gas budget.

If we compare the petrol consumption of the C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 with the regular 1.2 PureTech, the average consumption drops by 15 percent. In city traffic it can even rise to more than 30 percent. Officially, the Hybrid 136 consumes an average of 5.7 liters per 100 km (1 in 17.5). Our expectation is that you will come close to that under Dutch conditions.

The six-speed transmission is the epitome of smoothness and civility. That makes driving this C5 Aircross a relaxing experience. Only if you really sit back and relax, you will hear that a three-cylinder engine lives in the nose. Citroën has not yet released official performance figures, but we certainly found the C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 to be smooth enough. Although it is not a car to take all the corners at circuit speed. No, the C5 Aircross is designed for comfort above all.

The addition of the 48V battery and the electric motor have not affected the trunk space - it still holds at least 580 liters. If you slide the three-piece rear seat forward as much as possible, this can even be increased to 720 liters. You also have more than enough storage space in the interior. The center armrest conceals a cooled compartment that is so deep that you can throw coins in and make a wish.

What could be improved about the Citroën C5 Aircross Hybrid 136?

The C5 Aircross uses special shock absorbers, the so-called Progressive Hydraulic Cushions. These oil-damped end stops transmit bumps to the body less abruptly than conventional suspension systems. Normal speed bumps and cobblestone roads are indeed neatly smoothed out, but many short bumps and potholes in succession make the chassis quite restless.

The large SUV has sufficient legroom in the back for rear passengers of average stature, but taller people quickly find themselves stuck with their knees against the backs of the front seats.

If we look at the infotainment screen, the C5 Aircross is already a bit behind a number of stablemates. For example, to increase or decrease the air conditioning temperature, you have to dive into the touchscreen and perform several actions. With the C4 and C5

The C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 is slightly heavier than the 130 PureTech (1505 vs. 1383 kg) and therefore falls in a higher road tax category. However, he is allowed to tow a less heavy caravan (1250 vs. 1350 kg).

When will the Citroën C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 come to the Netherlands and what is the price?

You can already order the Citroën C5 Aircross Hybdrid 136. It is available with the You equipment from 41,640 euros. This makes it 3,740 euros more expensive than the PureTech 130 with the same equipment. That may sound like a lot for 6 more bucks, but you also get an automatic transmission. For that alone you previously paid 4,800 euros for the 130 PureTech... Especially when you look at it this way, the 136 Hybrid is more than worth the money.

An additional advantage is the greater peace and quiet on board and of course the better fuel consumption, especially if you regularly drive shorter distances. The new Citroën C5 Aircross Plug-in Hybrid 180 is even more economical, but also slightly more expensive, and you have to regularly connect it to a charging station.

The first copies of the C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 will be at the dealer around December 2023.

What do I think of Citroën C5 Aircross Hybrid 136?

All features added together, the Hybrid 136 probably offers the best price-quality ratio within the C5 Aircross range. But beyond the safe confines of the Citroën showroom, it also has to compete against a number of strong competitors, including the Opel Grandland, Ford Kuga and Nissan Qashqai. They all drive tighter and some are faster and/or more economical, but they lack the relaxed laissez-faire mentality of the Citroën. Personally, this character really appeals to me, but I prefer to see it in the packaging of the lower, more elegant but certainly no less spacious C5