The Citroën C5 I (Phase I), produced between 2000 and 2004, represented a significant step forward for the French automaker, aiming to compete directly with established European family saloons like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. The 2.0 HDi 110 hp variant with an automatic transmission was a key offering within the C5 range, positioned as a comfortable and economical choice for drivers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. This model, built on the 1HX0 platform, sought to blend Citroën’s renowned hydropneumatic suspension technology with modern diesel power, offering a unique driving experience. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel engines held a substantial market share and automatic transmissions were gaining popularity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 |
| Generation | C5 I (Phase I, 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 HDi (110 Hp) FAP Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2004 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 165 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 187 km/h (116.2 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp, 77.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5300 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RHZ DW10ATED |
| Engine displacement | 1996 cm3 (121.8 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 | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.7 l (11.31 US qt | 9.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1424 kg (3139.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs.) |
| Max load | 486 kg (1071.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 456 l (16.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 740 kg (1631.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4618 mm (181.81 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2100 mm (82.68 in.) |
| Height | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1509 mm (59.41 in.) |
| Front overhang | 971 mm (38.23 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 897 mm (35.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.39 m (37.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| 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 | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C5 variant is the DW10ATED engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, designated with the RHZ code in some markets, utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine is turbocharged and intercooled, boosting power output to 110 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1750 rpm. This torque curve provides good low-end responsiveness, crucial for everyday driving. The engine features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, a common configuration for durability and weight reduction. The automatic transmission is a four-speed unit, designed to provide smooth shifts and ease of driving. While not as sophisticated as modern automatic transmissions with more gears, it was well-suited to the engine’s torque characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 HDi automatic C5 offered a relaxed and comfortable driving experience. The automatic transmission, while lacking the responsiveness of a manual gearbox, provided smooth gear changes and eliminated the need for constant clutch and gear selection. Acceleration was adequate for most situations, with a 0-60 mph time of around 11.7 seconds. However, it wasn’t a particularly sporty car; the focus was on comfort and fuel economy. The hydropneumatic suspension, a Citroën hallmark, provided a remarkably smooth ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface with ease. The steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The engine’s torque delivery meant that overtaking maneuvers were achievable without needing to downshift aggressively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 HDi automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power windows, central locking, air conditioning, and an RDS radio. Higher trim levels, such as Exclusive, added features like leather upholstery, alloy wheels, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers, and a more sophisticated audio system. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. The interior was generally well-appointed, with comfortable seats and a functional dashboard layout. The C5 aimed for a more upscale feel than some of its competitors.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 I featured independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a semi-independent rear suspension using coil springs. This setup prioritized ride comfort over outright handling precision. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The hydraulic power steering offered light and easy steering, contributing to the car’s ease of driving. The car’s relatively heavy weight (1424 kg / 3139 lbs) did impact its agility, but the suspension effectively mitigated body roll.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 HDi automatic C5 was generally well-received by critics for its comfort, fuel economy, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and the car wasn’t as engaging to drive as some of its rivals. Compared to the 1.8-liter petrol versions, the 2.0 HDi offered significantly better fuel economy and more torque, making it a more practical choice for long-distance driving. Compared to the more powerful 2.2 HDi, the 2.0 HDi offered a more affordable entry point into the C5 range, albeit with slightly less performance.
Legacy
The DW10ATED engine proved to be a reliable unit when properly maintained. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not the most advanced, also demonstrated reasonable durability. Today, the 2.0 HDi automatic C5 I represents an affordable and comfortable used car option. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components, particularly the hydropneumatic spheres, and potential problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if the car has not been regularly serviced. However, with careful maintenance, these cars can continue to provide reliable transportation for many years. The C5 I, and particularly this 2.0 HDi variant, remains a testament to Citroën’s commitment to comfort and innovation.
