New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV offers electric option, enhanced comfort

Citroën's latest C5 Aircross SUV boasts a larger, more stylish design and introduces a fully electric variant, aiming to enhance passenger comfort and driving experience. The interior is designed for relaxation, featuring seats built with selective firmness foam. These seats are electrically adjustable in eight directions and can massage, cool, and heat occupants. However, the use of less premium, hard plastics in areas not covered by soft fabric or faux leather detracts from the overall upscale feel. While higher trims offer premium interior packages, these desirable features are optional or unavailable on lower-spec models. Rear passengers benefit from increased legroom compared to the previous model, though it still falls short of competitors like the Skoda Kodiaq. The flexible seating arrangement, with three individual sliding seats, has been replaced by a fixed bench. However, the 40/20/40 split-folding backrest remains, with adjustable recline angles. Despite the fixed rear bench, the design avoids the feeling of sitting with knees raised, common in electric SUVs due to battery placement, by providing adequate thigh support. Cargo capacity is slightly reduced to 565 liters from the previous model, but the larger footprint makes it more practical for loading. With the rear seats folded, the cargo space expands to 1668 liters. Higher trims include an electric tailgate, which can be operated with a foot gesture, while mid-range models require an additional fee for this feature. The electric C5 Aircross is powered by a front-mounted electric motor producing 213 horsepower, drawing from a 73 kWh battery that provides an official WLTP range of 520 km. An optional Long Range version features a larger 97 kWh battery, extending the range to 680 km, and a more powerful motor. Notably, there is no front trunk (frunk) as the engine compartment is occupied by the electric drivetrain components.