Citroën updated its successful C5 model to be able to compete in the fast-paced segment of high-end sedans, where it will clearly match the likes of Audi and Mercedes Benz. This new design is closer to the standard of that segment. The lines express it all: elegance and high performance.
To communicate these characteristics, Citroën chose to reflect a new aesthetic, less traditionally French and more contemporary. Some of its features were taken from the Citroën C-Metisse, a concept introduced in 2006.
The vehicle's dimensions are as follows: length - 4.780 mm, width - 1.860 mm, height - 1.450 mm. It has a large trunk and proportions that clearly mark each volume, although the tail is more embedded in the center than it seems in the photos.
The overall volume looks “solid”, this means that each volume is so well connected that it looks like a more compact.
Technically, this car is endowed with the best Citroën can offer. Part of its technology derives from the top-of-the-range model of the brand, the C6. Even both models will be manufactured at the same plant in Rennes, France.
Surprised to learn how many engines are available for the new Citroën C5 2008. The customer will be able to choose between three nafteros and four diesel engines. Naphtha-powered engines are available in 4-cylinder versions 1.8i 127 hp and 2.0i 143 hp. There is also a 215 hp V6 3.0i.
While all diesel engines feature direct injection, common rail system and particulate filter (FAP). The 4-cylinder units are HDi with powers of 110, 138 and 173 hp. Finally the V6 diesel engine delivers a maximum power of 208 hp.
Depending on the engine chosen, the customer can then choose a variety of manual and automatic gearboxes.
The remarkable riding comfort is due to the new suspension system Hydractiva 3 Plus, which changes its characteristics to suit user preferences and terrain conditions.
This ensures maximum comfort for the passenger, ensuring greater rigidity in case of a more sporty handling. The new C5 will also be available conventional suspensions of deformable parallelogram forward and multi-arm rear.
The interior is very comfortable thanks to a wheelbase of 2,820 mm. The rural or break version uses the same platform, although it is just longer, reaching 4,830 mm. The multifunction fixed-centre steering wheel includes commands to make the driver's task easier without being distracted.
Very sophisticated equipment. The most equipped versions feature optional options such as slope start aid, electric and automatic parking brake, side parking space meter and front and rear sensors for active safety systems. Other systems available are involuntary lane change alert, directionable bi-xenon headlights, ABS, ESP and up to nine airbags.
Also noteworthy is the GPS navigation system. As distinctive elements we can mention the NaviDrive device. This system incorporates a 7 inch color display, GSM phone and audio. For the latter it has a hard drive with capacity to store 10 Gb of music.
The new Citroën C5 2008 will appear in Europe in March 2008. It will then arrive in South America in the second half of the same year.
© Adrián Blanco 2007 - No full or partial reproduction of text and/or images without explicit written consent of the author. —
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