Yesterday we reported a leaked brochure of the 2008 Citroen C5. Today we have the official information and photos of the new 2008 Citroen C5.
The 2008 Citroen C5 will be powered by one of three petrol engines: a 127 bhp DIN 1.8i 16V (92 kW EEC), a 143 bhp DIN 2.0i 16V (103 kW EEC)
or a 215 bhp DIN 3.0i V6 (155 kW EEC).
There are also four diesel engines available for the 2008 Citroen C5: a HDi 110 DPFS (80 kW EEC), a HDi 138 DPFS (100 kW EEC), a HDi 173 DPFS (125 kW EEC) and a HDi V6 208 DPFS (150 kW EEC).
Citroen Press Release:
NEW CITROEN C5
APPEAL, PERFORMANCE, STATUS AND QUALITY
Summary
With the new C5, Citroen establishes a strong position in the mid-high range vehicle segment, where the key qualities are appeal, performance, status and quality.
The 2008 Citroen C5 combines a strong personality, with dynamic performance, status and quality Respecting the design cues of this segment, Citroen has developed two cars: a saloon whose flowing lines express style and status and a dynamic looking estate that places the emphasis on emotion without forgetting functional convenience.
With the 2008 Citroen C5, Citroen satisfies the requirements of executive vehicle buyers in terms of quality and reliability by setting new standards in development, design and industrial production.
· Elegant thoroughbred styling
As a saloon or estate, the 2008 Citroen C5 stands apart for its distinguished styling and elegant personality. Its dynamic lines and clearly marked waistline give it real on-road presence. Inside the car, a well designed cabin and premium materials contribute to on-board comfort. Passengers benefit from a prestige design that makes this new road car a vehicle of refinement and distinction.
· Remarkable dynamic qualities
On the road, the driver enjoys exceptional driving sensations, and the passengers are lapped in comfort. To achieve this, the 2008 Citroen C5 offers a choice between two types of suspension: Hydractive 3 Plus suspension or metallic suspension. Both are based on the running gear of the C6 executive saloon. The Hydractive 3 Plus suspension is aimed at customers keen to take advantage of the Marque's latest
developments in technology, comfort and safety. The metallic suspension is a particularly competitive option. It provides a more direct feel while maintaining the comfort specific to Citroen. These dynamic qualities are combined
with a range of three petrol engines and four HDi diesel engines, as well as a full choice of gearboxes.
· Exemplary driving pleasure
Driving pleasure takes on a whole new dimension with the 2008 Citroen C5. The driving position, which resembles a cockpit, is fully focused on the driver, and features a second-generation fixed-centred controls steering wheel. Clear, concise driving information is displayed on three dials with annular needles, inspired by the aviation world.
Well designed acoustics enable the driver to give the road his/her full attention.
· Uncompromising on safety
The vehicle meets the highest standards in both active and passive safety with ESP as standard, a stiff body
structure and nine airbags (seven standard and two optional).
· Produced in an ISO 9001 and 14001 certified plant
The Rennes ISO 9001 certified centre has long experience in producing executive vehicles, particularly with the launch of the C6 which is now attaining remarkable levels of quality. This site has made a strong
commitment to sustainable development and the environment, and also holds ISO 14001 certification.
NEW CITROEN C5
Appeal, performance, status and quality
Contents
Distinctive styling expressing performance and elegance
- C5 saloon: sculptural exterior styling
- C5 estate: performance and space
- Refined interior styling
Remarkable dynamic qualities
- A complete range of engines and gearboxes
- Class-beating road manners
- A choice of suspension
Driveability and onboard comfort
- A driving position dedicated to the driver
- Innovative and pertinent driving aids
- Exemplary comfort functions
Uncompromising on safety
- A reinforced body structure
- Up to nine airbags
- An advanced safety braking system and active restraint systems
- Well designed child protection features
Focus on quality
- A customer-centred approach
- Robust design
- Produced in an ISO 14001 certified plant
DISTINCTIVE STYLING EXPRESSING PERFORMANCE AND ELEGANCE
C5 saloon: sculptural exterior styling
The proportions of the 2008 Citroen C5 (4.78m long, 1.86m wide and 1.45m tall) place it at the top end of the large road car segment. Its distinctive styling expresses prestige and performance. The strong character of this saloon is expressed by its sophisticated lines, modern proportions and original body style. Depending on the angle from which it is viewed, it resembles a thoroughbred coupé or elegant saloon. The 2008 Citroen C5 stirs the emotions from first glance.
The assertive front end makes a statement of strength, with its large air intakes and long incisive headlamps.
The headlamps – positioned on the bonnet with its two pronounced ribs – flank the large chrome chevrons
stating Citroen's identity. The wide tracks and flush wheels underline the perception of a vehicle that hugs
the road.
The profile of the saloon reflects efforts to optimise aerodynamics. The extended roof line underlines the
flowing proportions of the body. The large glazed area with a third side window lets the light flood into the
cabin. The high waistline and strongly marked wheel arches clearly identify the saloon as a vehicle of status. The 2.82m wheel base suggests a generous cabin.
The strong, distinguished character of the 2008 Citroen C5 is also expressed at the rear. The concave rear window identifies it as one of Citroen's large road tourers. The signature two-part boomerang lights give the rear-end an assertive look. The generous volumes convey the impression of a car with a strong on-road stance, sitting squarely on its wheels.
C5 estate: performance and space
For the estate, Citroen sought to create a car as sophisticated as the saloon but with more generous volumes. The 2008 Citroen C5 estate meets the needs of customers looking for a car that combines style and personality with presence and interior space.
The C5 estate boasts elegant and dynamic exterior styling, with a stylish front end identical to that of the
saloon and a rear end of determined, powerful appearance. The body style reveals a strong identity and real
versatility.
The flowing profile of the C5 estate expresses a perfect balance. The vehicle is 4.83m long, 1.86m wide and 1.48m tall. The proportions are generous but the additional volume has no impact on the overall lines.
Reflecting the sculpted design of the saloon, the rear end features geometric shapes that suggest width and
convenience from a horizontal perspective, while maintaining an elegant and dynamic appearance. The new
C5 estate expresses values that will appeal to customers looking for modern concepts tailored to their
lifestyles.
Refined interior styling
The opulent, sophisticated interior of the 2008 Citroen C5 is an invitation to travel. The dashboard conveys an immediate impression of quality and sophistication with its full, solid forms. The taut lines symbolise precision, while the flowing curves express dynamics. Dissociated from the central console, the dashboard enhances the impression of space and comfort. The design of the door panels reflects the choices made in terms of elegant styling. Overall, the cabin conveys an impression of quality and robust strength.
The interior design of the New C5 perfectly matches the exterior styling. It subtly combines sophistication
and innovation, generosity and space.
REMARKABLE DYNAMIC QUALITIES
A complete range of engines and gearboxes
The 2008 Citroen C5 boasts a full range of engines and gearboxes to meet the full range of customer requirements in its segment. The range comprises:
three petrol engines:
- 127 bhp DIN 1.8i 16V (92 kW EEC)
- 143 bhp DIN 2.0i 16V (103 kW EEC)
- 215 bhp DIN 3.0i V6 (155 kW EEC)
four diesel HDi engines fitted as standard with the particulate filter:
- HDi 110 DPFS (80 kW EEC)
- HDi 138 DPFS (100 kW EEC)
- HDi 173 DPFS (125 kW EEC)
- HDi V6 208 DPFS (150 kW EEC)
A wide choice of manual and automatic gearboxes is available, depending on the engine and trim level.
Class-beating road manners
Impeccable road manners are part of a relaxed enjoyable drive. Drivers of the 2008 Citroen C5 gain the benefits of sophisticated and efficient running gear.
Both the metallic and Hydractive 3 Plus suspensions bring new progress in the balance between steering
and damping, for enhanced passenger comfort and safety. This is reflected in the performance of the new
C5, which combines remarkable driveability with surefooted and responsive road manners.
In the same way as on the Citroen C6, the Hydractive 3 Plus and metallic suspensions comprise a double
wishbone and linked hub carrier at the front and a multilink set-up at the rear with a drop-link longitudinal
arm.
The efficiency of the suspension is reinforced by the torsional stiffness of the body which distributes vertical force continuously and equally over all four wheels while also contributing to the vehicle's excellent road manners.
A choice of suspension
Suspension comfort was a key objective in the design of the 2008 Citroen C5. Citroen has used its expertise to develop two types of suspension to meet the varied needs of customers: a Hydractive 3 Plus sus pension with two settings and a metallic suspension.
The Hydractive 3 Plus suspension of the 2008 Citroen C5 is aimed at customers keen to take advantage of the Marque's latest developments in technology, comfort and safety.
It adjusts springing and damping to take account of driver input and road conditions. A soft mode provides
optimum comfort, while a firmer mode delivers enhanced driving sensations and greater body control.
The driver can also choose a "sport" mode for an even more dynamic ride with extra thrills.
Controlled by sensors on each axle, the Hydractive 3 Plus suspension maintains the vehicle at a constant
height, regardless of the load and number of passengers.
The metallic suspension takes full advantage of the 2008 Citroen C5's sophisticated running gear. A winning combination based on Citroen expertise – with a double wishbone layout at the front and multilink set-up at the rear – strike an excellent balance between comfort and roadholding. The result is worthy of the Marque's large saloons in every respect. This particularly competitive option is a key asset in the commercial ambitions of the 2008 Citroen C5.
DRIVEABILITY AND ONBOARD COMFORT
A driving position dedicated to the driver
The 2008 Citroen C5 is equipped with a second-generation fixed-centred controls steering wheel. This feature reflects Citroen's innovative talent and sets the car apart.
Frequently used driving controls (speed limiter/cruise control) and comfort functions (radio, telephone, central screen controls, etc.) are within easy reach of the driver. Having the information on the steering wheel improves ergonomics and enhances driving comfort through easy use.
The new design of the wheel and the feel of the controls adds a further touch of sophistication to the driving position. The fixed central hub ensures that the airbag always deploys at the right angle in the event of impact for improved driver protection.
The design of the instrument cluster on the 2008 Citroen C5 reflects ergonomic requirements and ensures that information is laid out logically. The three dials feature annular needles, symbolising an advanced level of technology. The needles run around the dial for greater legibility and a more attractive design. This technology makes it possible to install a large display unit in the centre of each dial.
The central dial is dedicated to the analogue speedometer, while the screen shows information from the
onboard computer. The left-hand dial displays the fuel level and speed limiter/cruise control data, while the
right-hand dial shows the rev counter and, depending on the versions, the current mode or speed on the
instrument cluster.
A central display unit makes a variety of comfort information visible to all passengers. For example: the date and time, outside temperature and a graphical representation of parking assistance. At the same time, a
screen on the overhead console displays an illustration symbolising the car, its five seats and the seatbelt
warnings on start-up.
Innovative and pertinent driving aids
The 2008 Citroen C5 features a wide range of equipment for an easier, safer and more relaxed drive.
The 2008 Citroen C5 is fitted as standard with cruise control and a speed limiter. On the Hydractive 3 Plus versions, an automatic electric parking brake provides enhanced comfort and safety. This brake function also includes hill-start assist. The vehicle is automatically maintained in position for up to two seconds after the brake pedal is released, giving the driver time to move a foot from the brake to the accelerator, without the vehicle moving forwards or backwards down the slope.
To make parking easier, this new vehicle is also available with front and rear parking assistance and a
parking space gap sensor that informs drivers whether an available space is big enough for the vehicle
(spaces measuring less than 3 metres and more than 8 metres are ignored).
The Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), also available on some versions, provides a pertinent
response to the risk of drowsiness at the wheel.
Alongside the halogen headlamps that enhance visibility, Xenon dual-function directional headlamps are
also available.
Alongside these headlamps, a static AFS (Adaptive Front Lighting System) function improves visibility on
corners. An additional light source, linked to the angle of the steering wheel, works with the main flow of light from the headlamp to provide 75° lighting over the right- or left- hand angle of the vehicle.
If the vehicle is equipped with Xenon dual-function directional headlamps, it can also be equipped with
dynamic AFS, a new lighting system that improves visibility and safety on corners and at junctions. In this
case, the light covers an angle of 105° at low speeds.
The 2008 Citroen C5 is available with the new-generation NaviDrive system. The system combines a 7-inch 16/9 screen with a built-in GSM telephone, audio system (radio, MP3-compatible CD player, jukebox function to store up to 10 Gb on the hard disk) and GPS navigation. To further improve guidance functions, NaviDrive lets the driver enlarge crossroads or other points where several roads come together using Birdview mode.
This displays a simulated overhead perspective of the road extending to the horizon. NaviDrive was also
designed to provide a number of additional customer services, namely Citroen Emergency, Citroen
Assistance and Citroen On line. Working with the GPS and telephone functions, Citroen Emergency makes it possible (depending on the country) to locate the vehicle if the driver is ill or has an accident, and to access the services of a call centre.
The main functions of the NaviDrive system can be accessed easily using the steering-wheel controls, which can also be used for the voice recognition and voice synthesis functions.
Exemplary comfort functions
Excellent acoustic comfort
The acoustics of the 2008 Citroen C5 create a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere for both the driver and passengers.
Right from the start of the design process, engineers endowed the cabin with a range of soundproofing
features:
- an acoustic barrier, generally found only on executive vehicles, fitted on the body, on the surrounds for the doors and on their upper and lower parts;
- an acoustic windscreen (standard) and acoustic laminated side windows (standard or optional depending
on trim);
- damping parts for comfort (cradle mounts, front wishbone mounts and hydro-elastic mounts on the rear
suspension, as developed for the C6);
- an absorbent bonnet lining covering the bulkhead, body and scuttle to further improve soundproofing;
- a reinforced roof lining to absorb noise.
Optimised postural comfort
With a wheelbase of 2.82 m, the C5 road car is designed to satisfy buyers of large saloons looking for
postural comfort and outstanding space. The adjustable front seats, featuring manual or electric controls,
and the height - and reach-adjustable steering wheel let drivers find a driving position suited to their body
shape and driving habits.
Depending on trim levels, two seat categories are also available to ensure maximum comfort. "Harmonie",
based on flowing lines for an impression of comfort and well-being, and "Caractère", featuring stronger
support and more pronounced lines, illustrating the quest for driving thrills.
The electrically controlled front seats (standard with Exclusive trim) include comfort features that are new to this vehicle category.
The driver can adjust the top part of the back rest to achieve a comfortable position while fully supporting the top part of the chest.
According to the version, the driver's seat back can feature a back massage function.
Passengers at the rear also travel in comfort, thanks to the well designed and particularly generous leg
room. The absence of a central tunnel further increases space.
The rear seat features three height-adjustable headrests and, depending on trim,, a central armrest
comprising a vast stowage compartment and two can-holders built into a sliding drawer, a ski flap and – last – a 60/40 fold function, freeing up a flat floor.
UNCOMPROMISING ON SAFETY
A reinforced body structure
The 2008 Citroen C5 gains the passive safety features of platform 3. The results of EuroNCAP tests demonstrate its ability to provide a high level of protection for occupants.
The front end of the 2008 Citroen C5 features upper and lower absorbers to soak up the energy released in the event of impact. At the same time, the cabin structure has been stiffened to prevent intrusions or buckling of the survival cell.
The 2008 Citroen C5 is the first vehicle in the range to be equipped with a collapsible pedal assembly, depending on the version. In the event of impact, the brake and clutch pedals collapse into the bottom of the foot well to limit injury to the driver's legs.
Up to nine airbags
The driver and front passenger are protected by front and side airbags, with deployment pressure and
volume correlated with the severity of the impact. The driver's airbag is designed always to deploy at the
right angle, thanks to the fixed central part of the steering wheel.
At the same time, a knee airbag provides improved protection for the driver's shins and knees by limiting
impact with the steering column, which retracts by 65 mm.
Two curtain airbags provide head protection for passengers at the front and rear Optional side airbags are
also available for occupants at the rear, depending on the level of trim.
An advanced safety braking system and active restraint systems
The 2008 Citroen C5 is equipped at the front with vented discs of between 304 mm and 330 mm in diameter and rear discs of 209 mm for high-performance braking.
With the dedicated control functions fitted as standard for braking (electronic brakeforce assistance,
emergency braking assistance), assistance and steering (ABS, ESP) the driver is able to keep control of the
vehicle in even the most difficult driving situations.
The 2008 Citroen C5 is equipped with effective restraint systems for all the occupants, since all the seatbelts have three anchor points. The front seatbelts are height-adjustable and fitted with pyrotechnic pretensioners and force limiters.
Well designed child protection features
The 2008 Citroen C5 is available with Isofix anchor points for up to three seats: two on either side of the rear seat and one for the front passenger seat from level 2. The vehicle is also fitted as standard with four one-touch power windows with an anti-pinch function and an electric child safety lock for the doors and rear windows.
FOCUS ON QUALITY
A customer-centred approach
Right from the start, design studies for the 2008 Citroen C5 addressed customer satisfaction in all areas, particularly quality. The aim was to avoid failure, particularly of electronic systems. To this end, specific action plans were put in place.
The choices made, in terms of styling and in the selection of materials, aim to bring customers an immediate perception of quality, on a par with the best.
Robust design
To ensure the success of this project, breakthrough quality targets covering both new vehicles and vehicles
in use were set for all the teams involved in developing the 2008 Citroen C5.
The C5 reaps the full benefits of the platform policy, with a number of powertrain subsystems and electronic functions carried over from other models including the C6.
More than 250 vehicles will be assigned to a representative customer sample in France and Germany for
reliability road tests between now and the launch date. These vehicles will be driven for three million
kilometres to track down the last imperfections.
This phase completes the extensive driving and endurance trials conducted on private test tracks and at a
range of latitudes representing extreme conditions. More than two million kilometres were covered as
part of these trials.
Like the C6, the C5 is assembled at the Rennes site, a production centre dedicated to the
mid-high and executive vehicles of the PSA Peugeot Citroen Group.
This ISO 9001 certified centre has long experience in producing executive vehicles, particularly with the
launch of the C6 which is now attaining remarkable levels of quality. The Rennes site has made a strong
commitment to sustainable development and the environment, and also holds ISO 14001 certification.
