Citroen C5

Citroen C5 Estate 2.2 HDi SX

If you prefer Camembert to cheddar, Bordeaux to bitter or moules frites to fish and chips then you'll probably get on well with the C5 estate

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By Kim Adams

March 2002

If you prefer Camembert to cheddar, Bordeaux to bitter or moules frites to fish and chips then you'll probably get on well with the C5 estate - a car with a distinct air of Gallic individuality. Sadly, I'm about to wave goodbye to RO51 YVC after four fun-filled months at the wheel. Am I sad to see it go? You bet...
In true Citroen style, the C5 is full of quirky details. If, like me, you were wondering if wacky French cars were a thing of the past, spend a few hours in a C5 and you'll realise that the madness is back.
The automatic lights and wipers that turn on when it's dark or raining are a fine example. I love 'em, although automatically closing windows when it is raining is a little irritating if everything is steaming up. I also love the cruise control, which - thanks to a couple of European trips - has been used far more often than it would have done if the car had remained on British soil for the period of the loan. The star of the show, though, is the 2.2-litre Hdi engine which I reckon is one of the best diesels on the market right now. Developing 136bhp, it simply purrs along, and hasn't skipped a beat in just over 7,000 miles. The hydraulic suspension, too, has been a real revelation. Although the ride has been a bit choppy around town, it smooths out on quicker roads and progress is effortless at motorway pace.
But the C5 really earned its place on our fleet when I was travelling all over the UK researching our Christmas rally school test. After a day of being thrown around a rally stage, the armchair comfort of the Citroen was just what was needed.
The C5 was also the test bed for our annual round of car care tests (its wheels have never been so dazzling, even the in-sides!) But regular cleaning showed up a few problems - there is a scuff on the protective film over the rear bumper and another on the reversible boot carpet. Indeed, bearing in mind that the boot on an estate like the C5 will be used heavily, I think it could be tougher. Likewise the tailgate. The internal handles take little effort to tear free - the last time it happened during a moving photo shoot, it flew into the road never to be seen again.
The C5 may not be everybody's cup of tea, but for long-distance journeys with plenty of luggage, it is hard to beat at the money. I'll miss it.