The Citroen C5 II Phase II 2.0 BlueHDi 180 S&S Automatic, produced from 2015 to 2017, represents a significant refinement of Citroen’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a mid-to-high range offering within the C5 II lineup, this variant aimed to deliver a blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort. It built upon the foundation of the C5 II (introduced in 2008), which itself was a successor to the popular Citroen C5, and benefited from the Phase II updates introduced in 2012. The C5 II competed primarily with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo, Peugeot 508, and Volkswagen Passat, offering a distinctly French approach to ride quality and design. This particular engine and transmission combination was a key part of Citroen’s strategy to offer a compelling diesel option in the European market, leveraging the benefits of BlueHDi technology to meet stringent emissions standards.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 |
| Generation | C5 II (Phase II, 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 BlueHDi (180 Hp) S&S Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 222 km/h (137.94 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 246.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 90.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | AHW DW10FC |
| 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 | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 439 l (15.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l (18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 57 kg (125.66 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 | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17; 245/45 R18; 245/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C5 variant is the 2.0 BlueHDi engine, specifically the DW10FC variant, identified by engine code AHW. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline diesel engine utilizing a common rail direct injection system. The BlueHDi technology incorporates a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system using AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to significantly reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, meeting the stringent Euro 6 emission standards. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 180 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The automatic transmission is a six-speed unit, designed to provide smooth shifts and optimize fuel efficiency. The Start & Stop system further contributes to fuel savings by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 BlueHDi 180 Automatic C5 offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes approximately 8.7 seconds, making it adequately quick for most driving situations. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing seamless gear changes and responsive performance. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6 BlueHDi variants, this engine delivers noticeably more punch, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. While not as sporty as some of its rivals, the C5 prioritizes ride comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The gear ratios are optimized for both fuel efficiency and usable power, providing a good balance between the two. Compared to manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offers convenience but may result in a slight reduction in fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 BlueHDi 180 S&S Automatic typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and automatic headlights and wipers. Interior upholstery was generally cloth or leather, depending on the specific trim level. Higher trim levels offered features such as leather seats, panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring. Optional extras included a premium sound system and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 II utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system on both the front and rear axles, contributing to its renowned ride comfort. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering is electric power-assisted, offering a light and precise feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroen C5 II 2.0 BlueHDi 180 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined engine, and fuel efficiency. However, some critics noted that the interior design was somewhat dated compared to its rivals. Compared to the 1.6 BlueHDi variants, the 2.0-liter engine offered a significant performance upgrade, making it a more appealing option for drivers who frequently undertake long journeys or carry passengers. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg), and reliability was generally good, although diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues could occur with infrequent long-distance driving.
Legacy
The 2.0 BlueHDi engine proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant, and examples of the C5 II with this engine continue to be found on the used car market. The engine’s robust construction and relatively simple design contribute to its longevity. However, potential buyers should be aware of the importance of maintaining the DPF and ensuring regular servicing. The C5 II 2.0 BlueHDi 180 Automatic remains a compelling option for those seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped family sedan.
