Larger French cars are often thought of as having eccentric looks, idiosyncratic interiors and free-falling residual values, which confines them to bit player status outside their domestic market.
Hence Citroen‘s bold bid to change perceptions with its second-generation C5 upper medium cruiser.
The company’s approach? Make a connection with brands that are well entrenched in this sector, namely the German premium ones. That’s why Citroen’s TV ad campaign uses Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate as a final backdrop along with the strapline “Unmistakably German. Made in France.”
You could be excused for thinking this is an Audi, BMW or Merc clone.
In fact, the C5, with its handsome good looks and supportive sports seats, has selectively grafted on many ‘Teutonic’ virtues, including much-improved fit and finish both inside and out, and smart, tactile cabin materials plus logical ergonomics.
The PSA-Ford 110PS engine is not overawed by the C5’s bulk, either, moving along smartly and smoothly though without setting giddy acceleration figures.
The car could benefit from six instead of five gears, and sound-deadening “acoustic” mudflaps do not prevent tyre roar and sensitivity to changing surfaces, but an overboost turbo facility means not having to plan overtaking manoeuvres several minutes in advance.
A 45-plus mpg, attainable 600-mile range and 149g/km CO2 ratings are also undoubted assets.
Residual value expert CAP’s upgraded C5 predictions appear accurate for the new car, given first impressions of the well-equipped, keenly-priced, 1.6-litre 110PS SX diesel would seem to indicate onward and upward progress.
