Citroen C5 X here Q4 this year

FOLLOWING interminable delays due to component shortages, shipping problems and COVID-19 related issues, Citroen now has some interesting new models filtering through from the factory and is progressively expanding its Australian model range – a range that will shortly include the upper-medium segment C5 X crossover.

Due in local showrooms from Q4 2022, the Citroen C5 X will be offered as a single, highly specified variant featuring a slightly elevated ride height, and a five-door coupe-SUV body-style that is becoming increasingly popular with manufacturers the world over.

The well-equipped C5 X is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre PureTech petrol engine, producing 133kW of power and 250Nm of torque driving the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

This engine is used in several other Peugeot and Citroen models in Australia, including Citroen’s C5 Aircross.

Overseas, a plug-in hybrid version of the C5 X is also offered combining a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine with an 81.2kW electric motor and a 12.4kWh lithium-ion battery, for a total system output of 165kW – and a claimed electric range of 50km.

This driveline is understood to be under evaluation for the local market with Citroen Australia telling GoAuto last year that it is evaluating the possibility of bringing hybrid versions of the C5 X to Australia as it looks forward to expanding its local model offerings.

“The PHEV is absolutely on the table at the minute for evaluation, but we'll be able to provide further detail closer to the launch date,” explained Peugeot Citroen Australia general manager Kate Gillis.

The C5 X is the first large-segment Citroen passenger car since the last C5 was dropped from the French brand’s portfolio back in 2016. Gauged off Citroen’s current flagship, the C5 Aircross at $52,300 plus on-road costs, C5 X should fall somewhere above this price point.

The C5 X will likely come well equipped with standard features including a 12.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, 19-inch alloy wheels, Advanced Comfort seats, adaptive dampers, and a full suite of advanced driver assist, including Level 2 semi-autonomous technology.

It is understood the model offers seating for five in what Citroen says is a “generous passenger compartment” that provides a “real sense of warmth, serenity and spaciousness.”

Citroen says the C5 X breathes new life into the large car segment with an original design and an avant-garde body shape. With its sedan style long sloping bonnet, large low loading boot of a wagon and the elevated driving position of an SUV, the C5 X is one of a kind.

This latest model is instantly recognisable as a Citroen due to the distinctive V-shaped light signature at the front and rear.

C5 X will provide the latest development of Citroen's Advanced Comfort program, optimising comfort, and practicality but the legendary hydraulic sphere suspension doesn’t make a comeback.

“There is no doubt that the Citroen C5 X will further expand the brand's growth opportunities in Australia,” said Ms Gillis.

“Truly encompassing Citroen’s design DNA, the C5 X will appeal to the discerning Australian consumer keen to travel in absolute comfort and stand out in style on the roads.”