Citroen C5 Aircross

The C5 Aircross facelift is powered by the same 2.0-litre diesel engine that powered the previous model, producing 174bhp and 400Nm of torque.

This engine is paired with an eight-speed automated gearbox. Despite the fact that all manufacturers, including Citroen, are phasing out diesel engines internationally, this one retains the oil-burner. So why not? It does give a fuel cost benefit, is lovely and torquey, and is suitable for use on our highways.

This vehicle is front-wheel drive only, with no option for all-wheel drive. Aside from regular, eco, and sport settings, traction modes include standard, snow, mud, and sand. So, if things go rough, these modes should come in handy.

The throttle response varies according to mode, and it's excellent. There is no discernible latency, and the transmission with closely packed gear ratios reacts effectively to provide a comfortable ride. Yes, the diesel engine makes noise, but Citroen has done a decent job of isolating it such that it does not seem noisy.

And it is an engine that produces enough torque, whether dashing between two traffic lights or gliding between two cities on the highway.

Now, a diesel engine equals economy, and based on our previous experience, this one is fuel-efficient. Even the claimed fuel efficiency of 17.5kmpl is slightly lower, but we'll find out when we acquire the C5 Aircross for our real-world fuel runs. For the time being, there is no disputing that it will be handy on inter-city or inter-state road excursions.

It's now a comfy place to be, whether you're in the driver's seat or in the rear. Even if the road conditions are uneven, you may enjoy a pleasant ride.

The Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension on the C5 Aircross gives more dampening. Then there are Citroen's next-generation comfort seats, which give more padding to separate a person from impact. Although there is no sense of discomfort, the flaws of the road can be felt at lower speeds.

Otherwise, the highway ride is quite comfortable and maintains the occupants' motions steady while keeping grounded. No, it won't cover up terrible roads, and certain broken sections and undulations may be felt, but it's still enjoyable.

Furthermore, because to the lengthy suspension travel and high ground clearance, body roll occurs while going around a corner quickly. Nonetheless, the tyre grip is decent, giving you the confidence to drive about without breaking a sweat.

The C5 Aircross is a large vehicle, yet despite its size, it is easy to manoeuvre. With such simple controls, even inexperienced drivers will be able to get the hang of things fast.

Citroen C5 Aircross [2021-2022] is the top-tier model. Shine Dual Tone has 4 Star (Euro NCAP), 6 Airbags (Driver, Front Passenger, 2 Curtain, Driver Side, Front Passenger Side), Seat Belt Warning, Child Lock, Anchor Points for Child Seat, Overspeed Warning, Speed Sensing Door Lock, Anti theft Engine immobiliser, Middle rear three-point seatbelt, Flashing Emergency Brake Light, and Central Locking.

The silhouette stays unchanged, and the automobile maintains its strong road presence. Let's start with the front for the aesthetic adjustments. The front fascia has been modified, with new LED headlights and LED daytime running lights.

The multilayer split headlamp configuration has been replaced by a single-piece design that contains the DRLs that are aligned with the grille. The centre is then adorned with Citroen's double Chevron insignia.

The front bumper has also been updated, with a chrome lip flanked by fog lamps. The company has given the SUV a new design for the 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels on the flanks, which looks nice.

Moving back, the majority of the alterations are minor, such as rectangular internal parts in the tail lights with a black finish.

C5 keeps the pleasant high-seating posture. And, while some things have changed on the centre console when you compare it with the previous model, critical functions are still easily accessible, and there is decent all-around visibility.

The free-standing 10-inch infotainment display replaces the integrated device in terms of design improvements. Nonetheless, the volume control knob and touch-sensitive buttons have been kept.

When we state that things have changed on the centre console, we mean that the traditional gear lever has been replaced by a toggle switch. Similarly, instead of a knob, the driving modes are now controlled by another button.

There are two USB ports and a wireless charger as well. The instrument cluster also receives a new interface and updated aesthetics, as well as three selectable screens: Personal, Dials, and Minimum.

Another advantage of this vehicle is that the second row has three individual seats for three persons. And it has a significant edge in terms of space and comfort. The company also claims that the cushioning for the seats has been enhanced, which will contribute to the comfort. We would have like additional under-thigh support.

These three-person chairs glide, recline, retract, and fold flat independently. As a result, the 580-litre boot may be increased to 1,630-litres. That leads us to the storage and stowage options, which include a spacious glovebox and centre tunnel storage.

The C5 Aircross comes with an electrically controlled driver seat, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone temperature control, parking assist, auto lights and wipers, and many more amenities. Similarly, safety features such as six airbags, ESC, traction control, and Isofix seats have been included.

The Citroen C5 Aircross goes up against the Jeep Compass, Hyundai Tucson, and Volkswagen Tiguan. With the current price of Rs 36.67 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top-spec Shine trim, it is undoubtedly the most costly option.

It lacks variations and various engine options, as well as AWD, which rivals in its class provide. However, it has compelling grounds to be considered a worthy opponent in this SUV combat.

The C5 Aircross facelift is still a good highway vehicle with a supple ride. It's comfy and loaded with conveniences, and because the diesel engine is fuel efficient, owners will save money on lengthy travels.

And, in the end, these distinctive styles do give some exclusivity to the roadways, which are currently clogged with SUVs.