NEW Citroen C5 X review: so relaxing!

Nicola Hume finds out just how relaxing Citroen's new flagship is.

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It might be SUVs that sell in big numbers today, but Citroen hasn't completely turned its back on its heritage when it comes to trend-bucking cars, shown by the new C5 X.

Think of this as a kind of catch-all rival that covers ground occupied by the Skoda Superb and other large family hatchbacks (as well as those that don't want a family SUV) that will also appeal to company car drivers – no surprise, then, that Citroen offers the C5 X with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

It's this model we're testing here, which combines a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with a 12.4kWh battery that feeds an electric motor. While the powertrain is similar to that in the brand's recently updated C5 Aircross SUV, the battery is actually smaller, yet the C5 X claims a similar 38 miles of zero-emissions electric range thanks to its more slippery shape.

The two power sources produce 222bhp and 250Nm of torque, so the PHEV will accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds, and it feels swift enough on the move. But the C5 X plug-in isn't about out-right performance or handling and the powertrain is much more at home if you opt for a relaxed style. As Nicola Hume finds out, there's a lot to be said for the Citroen's laid-back approach.

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[slantia]

The amount of love this car seems to be getting from people makes me happy. Love an underdog. Sure, it's not for everyone, but it seems to have absolutely nailed the brief it set out to meet. Great review as always, Nicola!

[tomgallagher]

Just drove my new C5X back from the dealers - 400 miles. Wow, I stepped out of it feeling fresh. Don't believe the journos who say the 1.2 130hp is underpowered. They haven't driven that model. They weren't given that model at the launch in Spain. It is quite nippy. Perfectly adequate for everyday motoring. Not worth an extra seven grand for a 1.6. Great review.

[jonathantaylor]

As a person of 'a certain age'... I'm all for comfortable driving - well done, Citroen for once again for doing what you do best - being niche... 👍

[keithireland]

The most entertaining car reviews on the planet totally brilliant thankyou.

[twixmcraider]

Thank you - you are the first one who understand this wunderful car.

[Rapscallion]

I love that she's wearing a big, comfy Cardigan today to review this big, comfy car. Neatly matching the car, really.

[sevesellors]

Great review and love the styling always been a sucker for a big Citroen so smooth and comfortable.

[mercamg]

More Nicola Hume reviews please. Great work!

[Wellibob]

I love cars. But I think I love Nicola Hume more.
Fab review as always oh and that "Hume" smile 👌

[petermaunder]

I’ve got the 1.2 Sense Plus.Realey Happy with it.More than enough power to get up to motorway speed.

[alanwayte]

Nicola is in excellent, brings quirky perspective, Nice to see Citroen focus is on refined comfort again, but having just had Peugeot 3008 for week you can see very similar switchgear, but hey ho

[AR-zrom]

I'd love one of these but I do a lot of motorway miles. I know diesel isn't popular atm but there's still a market for it and this would really suit a 2.0 diesel

[dashcam]

As the car is a plug in hybrid .
What's the mpg on fuel alone .
When the rechargeable battery is flat.
ie . Unable to recharge for some reason.

[tomcat]

Pink Floyds 'Time' Indicator sound effects 🙏

[colinrenfrew]

Citroen do a good big car. Depreciation Is the only real concern.

[tusker]

Without doubt… the best car reviewer. Brilliant Nichola! 😊

[rayjennings]

I'm running the new style C4 at the moment and would dearly love the C4X as its replacement but the lack of a hatch is a bit of a deal-breaker, so it looks like it will be the C5X for me in a year or so!

[lecapitainevincent]

When you are on the road 200 days by year with rain, ice and snow, even you are young and sexy, you choose comfort and security and you drive a big Citroën !

[jpsabbey]

Aah finally some comfort amongst a sea of boy racer cars with firm suspension that people kid themselves they need 🤔🙄... Well done and great review!

[techtoth]

Makes me want to start earning serious money to be able to afford it. Unfortunately I'll be able to only when used ones are falling apart... A true heir to the CX!