The Citroën C5 I (Phase II), specifically the 2.0i 16V (140 hp) automatic variant produced between 2004 and 2008, represented a compelling blend of comfort and practicality within the mid-size sedan segment. This iteration of the C5, built on the 1HX0 platform, aimed to provide a refined driving experience with a focus on passenger well-being. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it slotted between the base 1.8L engine options and the more powerful 3.0L V6 models. The Phase II update brought cosmetic and technological improvements over the original C5 I, solidifying its position as a key model for Citroën in the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroën |
| Model | C5 |
| Generation | C5 I (Phase II, 2004) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i 16V (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 96.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 138.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | RFJ EW10A |
| 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 | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.3 l (9.83 US qt | 8.18 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1448 kg (3192.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1958 kg (4316.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 471 l (16.63 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1315 l (46.44 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 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 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 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 RFJ (or sometimes EW10A) 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, a staple in the PSA Group’s (Peugeot Société Anonyme) lineup, featured a 16-valve double overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration. It employed multi-point fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine’s 140 horsepower output at 6000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm were respectable for its time, providing adequate performance for everyday driving. The engine’s design prioritized refinement and fuel efficiency over outright power. The automatic transmission was a four-speed unit, designed to provide smooth shifts and ease of use. While not as technologically advanced as modern transmissions, it was well-suited to the engine’s characteristics and the C5’s comfort-oriented nature.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i 16V automatic C5 offered a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. The automatic transmission, while lacking the responsiveness of a manual, provided smooth gear changes and eliminated the need for constant clutch and gear lever operation. Acceleration was adequate for merging onto highways and overtaking, but it wasn’t particularly brisk. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.7 seconds reflects this. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic felt slightly less responsive due to the inherent power loss in the torque converter. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and comfort, rather than sporty performance. The C5’s suspension, known for its comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road effectively, contributing to a smooth ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i 16V automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an RDS radio. Higher trim levels, often denoted by “Exclusive” or similar designations, added features like leather upholstery, automatic climate control, alloy wheels, and a trip computer. Safety features included ABS brakes, front airbags, and often side airbags. Optional extras could include a sunroof, parking sensors, and a premium audio system. The interior design was functional and well-built, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 I utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front, providing good handling and ride comfort. The rear suspension was a semi-independent torsion beam setup, which was cost-effective and provided adequate stability. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing sufficient stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën C5 I 2.0i 16V automatic was generally well-received by critics as a comfortable and practical family sedan. It was praised for its ride quality, spacious interior, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and the overall driving experience wasn’t as engaging as some of its rivals. Compared to the 1.8L versions, the 2.0L offered noticeably more power and refinement. Compared to the 3.0L V6, it was less powerful but more fuel-efficient and affordable. Fuel economy was reasonable for its class, averaging around 27.4 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The RFJ/EW10A 2.0L engine proved to be a relatively reliable unit when properly maintained. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not the most advanced, also demonstrated reasonable durability. Today, the C5 I 2.0i 16V automatic can be found on the used car market at affordable prices. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and potential for oil leaks as the engine ages. However, with regular maintenance, these cars can provide years of reliable service. The C5 I, and this variant in particular, represents a period of Citroën’s commitment to comfort and innovation in the mid-size sedan segment.
