Citroen C5 HDi SX; Review

 

Diesel powered cars are becoming so good these days, if I was in a position to buy new I'd find it hard to bring myself to choose anything else.

And the modern diesel has been made so that it adapts well to either manual or automatic transmission, the latter by far most new car buyers' choice these days.

However, there are still a few good diesel/manual variants around, and the latest to come my way was Citroen's newly-facelifted C5 with its 2-litre HDi engine matched to a six-speed manual gearbox. Interestingly, to have automatic transmission the C5 buyer has to opt for the 2.2-litre engine or petrol V6.

Regular readers will recall I tested the facelifted C5 Exclusive in these columns in April. I reported then on the changes which make it so distinctive, especially the wide two-slat chrome grill which carries Citroen's double-chevron insignia and runs the entire width of the car.

In four-cylinder, 2-litre form the new C5 carries with it the latest generation common-rail diesel engine that is used widely amongst the PSA group (Citroen and Peugeot).

Developing 100kW and a relatively high 320Nm of torque, it is an absolute beauty.

This engine has set world class standards for its refinement and performance. In typical diesel fashion the HDi unit doesn't need to rev high, its energy is developed by a strong, flat torque curve which delivers maximum strength from just 2000rpm.

Coupled to the low ratios of the six-speeder the engine wants to work urgently, but it doesn't need to. In first gear it will rev quickly to the top end thanks to strong turbocharger boost. As the ratios expand the engine does feel a lot more subdued with its torquey characteristics becoming more evident.

The engine will work well at low revolutions in tall gears, the thought of a stall need not be considered. At the other end of the rev band power drop off is only noticed at around 4500rpm.

Against the clock the C5 HDi will make 100kmh from a standstill in 9.8sec with a 6.7sec time to make 120kmh from 80kmh. It is a lively mover with an unfaltering spread of power which seems unrealistic for its displacement. Take into account that the C5 is a big car weighing in heavy at around 1500kg, then engine performance is even more remarkable.

Citroen claim a top speed of 205kmh, and with its huge mid-range strength, acceleration is vivid.

Shifting the six-speeder does take a bit of getting used to, it does have a free and gentle pattern, but slotting second gear occasionally misses, the push across the gate needs to be firm.

Citroen have long been pioneers of hydraulic suspension systems and the C5 gets a version of what the manufacturers label Hydractive. The system uses advanced electronic and computer componentry at the same time, interacting with the mechanical and hydraulic systems to create automatically adjustable suspension settings depending on driving style and road conditions.

The driver can alter the ground clearance of the model using mid console-mounted buttons just forward of the handbrake lever. Ground clearance can be increased if the vehicle is travelling over rough surfaces, and can be automatically lowered according to highway speed. Reducing the centre of gravity means stability through corners is greatly increased. Interestingly, though, in 2-litre form, Hydractive doesn't include the firmer sports suspension option which is fitted to the 2.2-litre SX and 3-litre Exclusive.

However, when the C5 is presented with a quick corner its handling balance is exemplary, steerage is precise and directional with unparalleled body composure. Traditional cornering forces are counteracted by the suspension's sophistication.

Providing the grip are quiet riding Michelin Pilot tyres, they aren't low profile at 215/55 x 16in, but they are a good grippy compound. My testing time was marred by a polar blast which brought rain and hail to the region. Grip was only questioned at speeds in excess of what the conditions demanded. And, when grip is challenged, traction and stability control systems kick in to alleviate wayward cornering motion.

Given the experience Citroen have had with their unorthodox approach to suspension design, it is no surprise that the C5 gets as good a ride as you would expect in any car. Bumps and ruts are dealt to with little in-cabin shock offering sublime levels of comfort.

Citroen have created a stylish, almost futuristic shape in the C5. Not only does its shape characterise modern fashion, it is a design that delivers outstanding in-cabin comfort and practicality, there is a huge amount of head and leg room, while widthwise in the rear, three adults can be seated comfortably, all with the protection of overshoulder seat belts.

Up front the story is the same, the seats are comfortable and supportive, armrests are included for both passenger and driver. No fewer than seven air bags are fitted internally, they are part of an extensive safety package which also includes ABS and its associated ESP functions, and Isofix child seat attachments.

The inside styling isn't quite as spectacular as the exterior design, but its more conservative layout has ergonomic appeal. The facia and dash display is tidy, a mixture of analogue and digital readouts keep the driver well informed of each individual status.

With its $46,990 price tag the HDi C5 must be considered a bargain. Its high level of specification has it bordering on the luxury car market, yet its price is more mainstream. Fitted as standard are dual zone climate control, electric windows, electric exterior mirror adjustment, cruise control and speed limiter, tilt and reach-adjustable steering column, central locking with remote (alarm and immobiliser), high power single-CD audio which pumps out clear sound, and a host of minor items such as automatic lights, rain sensing wipers and trip computer.

The latter provided some interesting statistical information. At a steady 100kmh in sixth gear the engine sips fuel at the rate of 5.8 litres per 100km (engine speed 1900rpm), which equates to around 49mpg. My test average of 7.2l/100km (39mpg) was also pretty impressive. And if you take into account the way the cost of fuel is spiralling these days, the ownership of a diesel car would certainly pay dividends.

Citroen have done well to keep the C5 fresh, especially given its stablemate the Peugeot 407 commands such respect in this part of the market. However, the C5 with its interesting engine/gearbox combinations and its distinctive style provide the buyer with a vastly different and personal package.

Specifications:

Price: Citroen C5 HDi SX, $46,990.

Dimensions: Length, 4745mm; width, 1780mm; height, 1476mm.

Configuration: Four-cylinder transverse, front-wheel-drive, 1997cc, 100kW/4000rpm, 320Nm/2000rpm, six-speed manual; 1486kg.

Performance: 0-100kmh, 9.8sec; maximum speed, 205kmh.