Skip advert
Advertisement

Citroen DS5 Hybrid4

The luxurious Citroen DS5 Hybrid4 is more efficient than ever, returning 74.3mpg and 91g/km of CO2

Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

How we review cars
Find your Citroen DS5
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

It’s not as accomplished as a German estate, and new versions aren’t cheap. But the DS5 makes a strong case for itself by offering head-turning looks and a decent drive. This Hybrid4 model adds appeal for company car drivers, too, while the fatter tyres help smooth the ride.

In the face of some capable but not exactly interesting German competition, the Citroen DS5 is something a bit different.

Advertisement - Article continues below

From the unique metal blade that sweeps back from the headlights up each wing to its concave, sculpted tail-lamps, this car oozes more style and character than any of its Bavarian rivals.

It’s the same inside, too, where ergonomics play second fiddle to style – there are no buttons on the doors, for example, merely a tasteful milled handle. The locks and electric window controls are in the centre console instead.

Yet once you get used to the odd positioning of the switchgear and the unusual part-MPV, part-estate dimensions, the DS5 is easy to drive. There’s a decent amount of space inside and a comfortable driving position, too. It’s pricey, but kit includes heated seats with the option of fantastic watch-strap leather.

The location of our hybrid car’s battery and motor assembly under the boot floor compromises the 325-litre load area slightly, while rear space isn’t overly generous. However, to ensure the newcomer stays in the 10 per cent company car tax bracket, and remains exempt from road tax, Citroen has introduced new engine management software for the 163bhp 2.0-litre diesel and improved the battery management system.

Opt for 17-inch alloys, instead of the 18s that fill the arches better, and the DS5 emits 91g/km of CO2. A further update will improve this to 88g/km in March. And while the cut in CO2 figures is good for your pocket, the higher-profile tyre and smaller wheel combination helps the DS5’s ride, offering more compliance over big bumps and less jiggling when you hit small ridges or potholes in the road surface.

The hybrid drivetrain switches smoothly between power modes, although the automated manual box changes gear slowly. The conventional six-speed auto is nicer, but unfortunately it’s unavailable on hybrid DS5s.

Get the latest electric car news, reviews and analysis on DrivingElectric.com

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £3,158 off RRP*
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £4,935 off RRP*Used from £13,135
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,474 off RRP*Used from £15,930
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £7,541 off RRP*Used from £11,895
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment
Xiaomi YU7 - front cornering

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment

BMW or Mercedes would do anything to keep the new Xiaomi YU7 from sale in the UK and Europe, and this is why
Road tests
14 Jul 2025
New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
The EV grant is back: Government's new £3,750 electric car discount in detail
Auto Express creative director Darren Wilson charging the Lexus RZ

The EV grant is back: Government's new £3,750 electric car discount in detail

The government has set out its plan to help reduce the cost of affordable EVs by introducing a new £3,750 grant for new EVs sold
News
15 Jul 2025