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
Advertisement

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

Our latest car deals

Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £29,735Avg. savings £5,267 off RRP*Compare Offers
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £28,085Avg. savings £1,458 off RRP*Compare Offers
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £27,565Avg. savings £2,749 off RRP*Compare Offers
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £25,235Avg. savings £1,836 off RRP*Compare Offers
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Suicidally, Jaguar is opening the door for Tesla and BYD to pick off the best of its dealerships
Opinion - Jaguar

Suicidally, Jaguar is opening the door for Tesla and BYD to pick off the best of its dealerships

Mike Rutherford thinks it's been a difficult few months for the British car industry
Opinion
8 Dec 2024
Skoda Elroq review
Skoda Elroq - front

Skoda Elroq review

The Skoda Elroq is even more appealing than the bigger Skoda Enyaq, and just as brilliant
In-depth reviews
9 Dec 2024
Car Deal of the Day: Ford’s Capri coupe-SUV is a great fit for families at this price
Ford Capri - front action

Car Deal of the Day: Ford’s Capri coupe-SUV is a great fit for families at this price

Ford’s Capri has been revived, this time as a family-friendly coupe-SUV. It’s our Deal of the Day for 8 December
News
8 Dec 2024