The Citroën C5 I (Phase II), specifically the 2.0 HDi 136 horsepower variant with an automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of Citroën’s large family car, produced from 2005 to 2008. This model falls within the broader C5 I generation (produced from 2001-2008), known for its emphasis on comfort and advanced technology for its time. The Phase II refresh brought styling updates and mechanical refinements, solidifying the C5’s position as a competitor to vehicles like the Ford Mondeo, Peugeot 607, and Volkswagen Passat in the European market. This particular engine and transmission combination aimed to provide a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and ease of driving, targeting buyers who prioritized comfort over outright sportiness.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 |
| Generation | C5 I (Phase II, 2004) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 HDi (136 Hp) FAP Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 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) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 218.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 2000 rpm (250.77 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 | 10.7 l (11.31 US qt, 9.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1554 kg (3425.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max load | 486 kg (1071.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 471 l (16.63 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1315 l (46.44 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l (17.7 US gal, 14.74 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4745 mm (186.81 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1528 mm (60.16 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1033 mm (40.67 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 962 mm (37.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.43 m (40.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C5 variant is the DW10BTED4 engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, commonly found in PSA Group (Peugeot, Citroën) vehicles, is characterized by its robust construction and use of common rail direct injection. The ‘RHR’ engine code specifically denotes a version equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), or FAP in French (Filtre à Particules), designed to reduce particulate emissions and meet Euro 4 standards. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, contributes to efficient gas exchange. The automatic transmission is a six-speed unit, providing smooth shifts and contributing to relaxed cruising. While not known for being particularly quick, the transmission is generally reliable and well-suited to the engine’s torque characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 HDi 136 automatic C5 offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.8 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t provide particularly brisk performance. The automatic transmission prioritizes smooth shifts over aggressive downshifts, making it ideal for long journeys. The torque output of 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) is available from a relatively low 2000 rpm, providing good in-gear acceleration for overtaking. Compared to the manual version of the same engine, the automatic suffers a slight performance penalty due to transmission losses. Higher-output versions, such as the 2.2 HDi, offered significantly more power but at the expense of fuel economy. The C5’s hydropneumatic suspension (a Citroën hallmark) contributes to a remarkably smooth ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 HDi 136 automatic typically came in mid-range trim levels, offering a good balance of features and affordability. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a CD stereo, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, automatic headlights and wipers, parking sensors, and a more sophisticated audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather was an optional extra. The dashboard layout was functional and ergonomically designed, with a focus on ease of use. Optional extras could significantly enhance the comfort and convenience of the vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 I featured independent front suspension using a McPherson strut setup, combined with a semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. This configuration provided a good compromise between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën C5 I 2.0 HDi 136 automatic was generally well-received by critics for its comfort, refinement, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the performance was not particularly exciting. Compared to the 1.8 petrol versions, the 2.0 HDi offered significantly better fuel economy and torque. The 2.2 HDi provided more power but was more expensive to purchase and run. Reliability was generally good, although the DPF (FAP) could be prone to clogging if the vehicle was primarily used for short journeys. Fuel economy figures of around 33-40 mpg were typical in real-world driving.
Legacy
The DW10BTED4 engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. The 2.0 HDi 136 automatic C5 remains a relatively affordable and practical used car option today. While the DPF may require attention on older examples, the engine itself is generally robust. The C5’s comfortable ride and spacious interior continue to appeal to buyers looking for a relaxed and refined driving experience. The hydropneumatic suspension, while requiring occasional maintenance, is a key element of the C5’s unique character and remains a sought-after feature by enthusiasts.
