Sexy Citroen C5 on show in the UK

The bold-looking Citroen C5 offers a fresh alternative to its more conservative-looking rivals

Here’s the first look in the UK of the all-new Citroen C5 – after Auto Trader was allowed a sneak peek.

Going up against the likes of the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, the bold-looking Citroen C5 offers a fresh alternative to its more conservative-looking rivals.

The Citroen C5 on show boasted optional 19-inch alloys and the sleek front as seen on the whole Citroen range, while the rear had similarities with more executive cars such as the BMW 3 Series and Lexus GS.

And for the first time in more than 30 years Citroen has fitted its mid-sized car with a boot rather than a hatchback.

Inside, it feels well-built and is equipped with a host of electrics along with the second-generation fixed centre steering wheel.

The Citroen C5 has up to nine airbags, electronic brake distribution, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability programme and, on some models, the ‘Lane Departure Warning System’ which warns the driver when they’re crossing lane markings on the road.

It hasn’t be crash tested by EuroNCAP but we’d expect it to follow the outgoing Citroen C5 and be awarded a full five star rating.

The Citroen C5 will be available with a choice of six engines. The four diesels on offer are a 1.6- (106bhp) 2.0- (136bhp) 2.2- (173bhp) and the range-topping 2.7-litre V6 which is used in the Citroen C6 and produces a healthy 206bhp and 325lb/ft of pulling power.

Buyers will get a choice of two petrol engines - 1.8- and 2-litre models producing 127bhp and 143bhp respectively.

With Citroen expecting about 70 per cent of C5s to be sold as company cars, expect the big-selling models to be the 2- and 2.2-litre diesels which will offer good performance and fuel efficiency. 

Prices for the Citroen C5 haven’t been announced but expect to pay about £16,000 for the entry-level petrol model rising to about £25,000 for the top-end V6 diesel when it goes on sale in April.