All-new Citroen C5 now on sale

The all-new Citroen C5 goes on sale today, targetting the big-selling Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat and Mazda 6.

The fresh-faced Citroen C5 has a sharp new suit, making it one the best looking cars in its class.

View more pictures of the Citroen C5

A large new marketing campaign, featuring the Citroen C5 being described as ‘unmistakeably German – made in France’ clearly shows Citroen are targeting the perception of German engineering quality with the C5.

There are four diesel engines to choose from, ranging in size from 1.6, 2.0, 2.2 and 2.7-litre V6. Also offered are 1.8-litre and 2-litre petrol engines.

The 2.7-litre V6, which is also used by Jaguar, is fitted with a six-speed automatic gearbox while all other engines are fitted with either a five or six-speed manual gearbox.

Citroen is famous for innovative design, and quirky features found in the Citroen C5 include its ‘fixed-hub steering wheel’, where the centre of the wheel remains static while you steer the car.

This has allowed a specially shaped airbag to be placed into the hub, which Citroen claims improves driver safety.

Citroen has concentrated on refinement and C5s are available with acoustic windscreens, laminated side windows, damped mountings and acoustic barriers in its bodywork to keep interior noise to a minimum.

Optional extras include Xenon headlights, satellite navigation, seven-inch display and telephone connection.

Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) is fitted as standard across the range, along with seven airbags and two extra as an option.

The C5 has recently scored a full five out of five stars for adult occupant protection in EuroNCAP crash testing. It scored four stars for child occupant protection.

The past 12 months have been a busy time for the mid-sized saloon market, with the launch of the Ford Mondeo, Mazda 6 and upcoming Honda Accord.

The Citroen C5 is available from just over £15,000 and includes SX, VTR+ and range-topping Exclusive models.

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