With the hybrid era upon us and as a newcomer to hybrid driving, I found myself quickly becoming accustomed to the not over-complicated, user-friendly dashboard. A bright, colourful and open display with everything you would expect to see and a few things you wouldn't - a real glimpse into the future of driving.
I know what you're thinking and you're right, it does look like the C5 Aircross from back in 2018. While the shape and design of the C5 remain mostly the same, the more noticeable hints of electric power are subtle and show through the blue 'H' under the wing mirror on the left and right-hand side, finished with a Hybrid stamp on the rear of the car. The driving experience, however, differs massively from the 2018 C5. The steering wheel feels very light through towns and villages at low speeds and seems to stiffen slightly when travelling at speed.
The power and ease to change from ‘Sport’, ‘Hybrid’, and ‘Electric’ modes make driving feel effortless. The 178bhp provided by the hybrid engine provides an overall wonderful driving experience and when you want to move along a little quicker, the C5 Aircross Hybrid will have no problem in accommodating. The 178bhp 1.6-litre 4cyl petrol-electric C5 engine makes 0-62mph in 8.7 seconds - a very respectable time indeed.
Whether you're an urban commuter or a road-trip adventurer, the Plug-in Hybrid e-EAT8 Puretech 180 + 80kw electric motor provides a smooth and comfortable drive. Driving through built-up city areas or navigating more rural environments, I loved the spacious, comfortable feel of the C5 Aircross. The 8-speed automatic gearbox still has the ‘umph’ required when on your more rural adventures. There's room for the whole family including the dog, what's not to love?
Overall, in my opinion, Citroen has done a fantastic job of crafting a new era hybrid vehicle and taken a huge step in the right direction for the future. The Citroen C5 Aircross is a sign of all the good things we can expect from this sector of the fast, and ever-evolving, motoring market.
Model: Citroen C5 Aircross Plug-in Hybrid
Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl petrol electric
Power/torque: 178bhp/250Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
0-62mph; 8.7 seconds
Top speed: 140mph
Economy: 157.2mpg
CO2: CO2: 41g/km
On sale: Now