THE basic C5 suspension is to the same formula as the Xantia with MacPherson struts at the front and a trailing arm/cross beam arrangement at the rear. The big difference is in the control medium where hydraulics take over from springs and allow the vehicle to operate at different ride heights depending on circumstances, to adapt to driving style and maintain an even stance in fully loaded or lightly loaded situations. The system is called Hydractive 3 and is able to operate at four different settings high, for easy wheel-changing raised, for operating in difficult low-speed circumstances

normal, for regular around-town use and low, for high-speed cruising on smooth roads, or for easy coupling of trailers or caravans. Although the system will modify its operation according to driving style, the driver is also able to select a "sport" setting to give a firmer, more responsive behaviour. The system used in the turbo diesel C5 loses the selectable "sport" setting but can still be adjusted for height. Citroen says the system requires no maintenance for five years or 200,000km.