The Citroën C5 II (Phase I), produced from 2008 to 2009, represented a significant evolution in Citroën’s large family car offering. The 2.0 HDi 136 Automatic variant occupied a middle ground within the C5 II range, aiming to balance fuel efficiency, comfortable cruising, and ease of use. This model was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel engines and automatic transmissions were increasingly popular for long-distance travel. It built upon the foundation of the X7 platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), shared with the Peugeot 607, offering a blend of comfort and technology. The Phase I models, like this one, were the initial iteration of the second-generation C5, setting the stage for later refinements.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 |
| Generation | C5 II (Phase I, 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 HDi (136 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 189 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 82 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RHR DW10BTED4 |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.25 l (5.55 US qt | 4.62 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1658 kg (3655.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 532 kg (1172.86 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 439 l (15.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l (18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 63 kg (138.89 lbs.) |
| Length | 4779 mm (188.15 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2096 mm (82.52 in.) |
| Height | 1451-1458 mm (57.13 – 57.4 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2815 mm (110.83 in.) |
| Front track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1054 mm (41.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 910 mm (35.83 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the C5 II 2.0 HDi 136 Automatic is the DW10BTED4 engine, a 1997cc four-cylinder diesel. This engine, commonly found in PSA Group vehicles (Peugeot and Citroën), utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The ‘RHR’ engine code specifically denotes a variant tuned to 136 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 320 Nm of torque at 2000 rpm. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and efficiency. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its power output. The automatic transmission is a six-speed unit, designed to provide smooth shifts and efficient power delivery. This transmission was chosen to appeal to drivers prioritizing comfort and ease of driving over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 HDi 136 Automatic C5 II offered a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.2 seconds, and top speed was rated at 124.9 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers compared to the manual versions. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. The C5’s renowned hydropneumatic suspension (depending on the specific trim level) contributed to a remarkably smooth ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 HDi 136 Automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Higher trim levels, such as Exclusive, added features like leather upholstery, automatic headlights and wipers, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system. Optional extras included a navigation system, panoramic sunroof, and upgraded alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was generally cloth on base models, with leather available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was functional and ergonomically designed, prioritizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 II featured a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, contributing to its comfortable ride and stable handling. Depending on the trim level, some models were equipped with Citroën’s Hydractive suspension system, which further enhanced ride quality by automatically adjusting the suspension damping based on road conditions. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, providing enhanced stopping power and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The C5 II 2.0 HDi 136 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and the overall driving experience lacked the engagement of some of its rivals. Compared to the 1.8L petrol versions, the 2.0 HDi offered significantly better fuel economy and torque, making it a more practical choice for long-distance drivers. Compared to the more powerful 2.2 HDi models, the 136 hp version offered a more affordable entry point into the C5 II range.
Legacy
The DW10BTED4 engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant. The 2.0 HDi 136 Automatic C5 II remains a relatively common sight on European roads today. While not without its potential issues (such as diesel particulate filter problems and occasional turbocharger wear), the engine is generally considered to be robust and relatively inexpensive to maintain. In the used car market, these models offer a good balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and affordability, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable family car.
