The Citroen C5 Aircross II, launched in September 2025, represents the second generation of Citroen’s popular compact SUV. The 1.6 (195 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid e-DCS variant, positioned as a mid-range offering within the lineup, combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor and battery pack, aiming to deliver improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. This model is a key component of Citroen’s strategy to offer electrified options across its range, catering to growing consumer demand for sustainable transportation, primarily within the European market. It builds upon the foundation of the first-generation C5 Aircross, refining its design and incorporating updated technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 Aircross |
| Generation | C5 Aircross II (Phase I, 2025) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (195 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid e-DCS |
| Start of production | September, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 2.5-2.6 l/100 km (94.1 – 90.5 US mpg, 113 – 108.6 UK mpg, 40 – 38.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 55-58 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e bis |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp, 104.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 160.1 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 17.8 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, between front and rear seats |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 80-81 km (49.71 – 50.33 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 14.3-14.5 kWh/100 km (23.01 – 23.34 kWh/100 mi, 146 – 144 MPGe, 7 – 6.9 km/kWh, 4.3 – 4.3 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 125 Hp @ 9000 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 118 Nm (87.03 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 195 Hp |
| System torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5G11 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1874-2000 kg (4131.46 – 4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2420 kg (5335.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 420-546 kg (925.94 – 1203.72 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 565 l (19.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1668 l (58.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 87 kg (191.8 lbs.) |
| Length | 4650 mm (183.07 in.) |
| Width | 1870 mm (73.62 in.) |
| Height | 1665-1695 mm (65.55 – 66.73 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2790 mm (109.84 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. PHEV. ICE and electric motor drive the front wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission e-DCS |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 235/55 R19; 235/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the C5 Aircross II 1.6 Plug-in Hybrid e-DCS lies a 1.6-liter, turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine, internally designated the 5G11. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. It utilizes direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger to enhance efficiency and power output. Coupled with this engine is a 125 horsepower electric motor, delivering 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) of torque. The electric motor is strategically positioned between the engine and the 7-speed e-DCS automatic transmission. The ‘e-DCS’ transmission is a conventional automatic unit adapted to work seamlessly with the electric motor, offering smooth gear changes and optimized efficiency. The combined system output is 195 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. A 17.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located under the floor between the front and rear seats, provides an all-electric range of 80-81 km (49.7-50.3 miles) according to WLTP testing.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Plug-in Hybrid e-DCS variant of the C5 Aircross II offers a distinct driving experience compared to its petrol or diesel counterparts. In electric mode, the vehicle provides near-silent acceleration and responsive performance for urban driving. The electric motor’s instant torque contributes to brisk initial acceleration. When the battery is depleted or during more demanding driving situations, the petrol engine seamlessly engages, providing additional power. The 7-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned for both electric and hybrid operation, offering smooth and efficient gear changes. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the hybrid powertrain delivers adequate performance, achieving 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 8.3 seconds. The weight of the battery pack does impact handling slightly, making the hybrid feel a bit heavier in corners compared to lighter, petrol-only versions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Plug-in Hybrid e-DCS trim typically includes a generous level of standard equipment. Features commonly found on this variant include Citroen’s Advanced Comfort seats, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition. Higher trim levels offer additional features like a larger touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a premium sound system. Exterior styling cues often include unique badging and subtle design elements to differentiate the hybrid model from other C5 Aircross II variants.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 Aircross II utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, tuned to prioritize ride comfort. The hybrid variant, due to its increased weight, may feature slightly stiffer spring rates to maintain handling stability. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) are standard features. The steering system is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion setup, offering light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C5 Aircross II 1.6 Plug-in Hybrid e-DCS has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. Compared to the petrol-only versions, the hybrid offers significantly lower running costs, particularly for drivers who frequently commute in urban areas and can take advantage of electric-only driving. Against competitors like the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid and the Hyundai Tucson PHEV, the C5 Aircross II stands out with its unique styling and focus on comfort. However, some critics have noted that its performance is not as engaging as some rivals, and the battery pack reduces cargo space compared to non-hybrid models.
Legacy
The 1.6 Plug-in Hybrid e-DCS powertrain represents Citroen’s commitment to electrification and sustainable mobility. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the combination of a proven petrol engine and a well-engineered hybrid system suggests a reasonable level of durability. On the used car market, these models are expected to hold their value relatively well, particularly as demand for plug-in hybrid vehicles continues to grow. The e-DCS transmission, while not known for being a performance-oriented unit, is generally considered reliable with proper maintenance. The C5 Aircross II 1.6 Plug-in Hybrid e-DCS is poised to become a significant player in the compact SUV segment, offering a compelling blend of comfort, efficiency, and practicality.
