The Citroën C5 II Tourer 3.0 V6 24V Automatic, produced between 2008 and 2010, represents a sophisticated offering within the second generation (X7) of Citroën’s large family car. Positioned as a premium variant, it aimed to provide a blend of comfort, performance, and practicality for buyers seeking a spacious and well-equipped station wagon. This model, part of the Phase I refresh of the C5 II, distinguished itself with a naturally aspirated V6 engine paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission, targeting customers who prioritized smooth power delivery over outright fuel economy. It competed with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo Estate, Volkswagen Passat Variant, and Peugeot 607 SW.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 |
| Generation | C5 II Tourer (Phase I, 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 24V (211 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 250 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 222 km/h (137.94 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 119.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 164.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 211 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 3750 rpm (213.89 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | XFU ES9A |
| Engine displacement | 2946 cm3 (179.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt, 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt, 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1761 kg (3882.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2366 kg (5216.14 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1462 l (51.63 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l (18.76 US gal, 15.62 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 68 kg (149.91 lbs.) |
| Length | 4829 mm (190.12 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2096 mm (82.52 in.) |
| Height | 1491-1495 mm (58.7 – 58.86 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 | 960 mm (37.8 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| 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 | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Citroën C5 II Tourer 3.0 V6 Automatic, launched in 2008 as part of the Phase I facelift, represented a significant step up in refinement and performance for the C5 range. Built on the PSA Group’s Platform 4 (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), shared with the Peugeot 607, this variant aimed to offer a compelling alternative to more mainstream executive estates. The C5 II Tourer, in general, was Citroën’s attempt to recapture the spirit of large, comfortable French saloons, emphasizing ride quality and innovative technology. The 3.0 V6 Automatic trim was positioned as the flagship, offering the most powerful engine and convenient automatic transmission available in the lineup.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the C5 II Tourer 3.0 V6 lies the ES9A engine code, a 2,946 cc naturally aspirated V6. This engine, a 60-degree V configuration, featured multi-point fuel injection and four valves per cylinder. The engine produced 211 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque at 3,750 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized smooth operation and linear power delivery over outright performance figures. Paired with this engine was a six-speed automatic transmission, offering a more relaxed driving experience compared to the available manual options in other C5 variants. This transmission was chosen for its ability to complement the V6’s characteristics, providing seamless gear changes and enhancing the car’s overall refinement.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 V6 Automatic C5 Tourer offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the lower-powered, four-cylinder models. While not a sports car, the V6 provided ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, meaning the engine sometimes needed to be revved to access its full potential. The gear ratios were tuned for comfort and fuel efficiency, rather than outright acceleration. Compared to the 2.0L HDi diesel variants, the V6 offered a more refined and quieter experience, but at the cost of significantly higher fuel consumption. The weight distribution, combined with the comfortable suspension, resulted in a stable and predictable handling characteristic, ideal for long-distance journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 V6 Automatic trim typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as the range-topper. Standard features included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and parking sensors. Optional extras often included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded alloy wheels. Interior trim levels were generally high quality, with a focus on comfort and ergonomics. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, although some materials felt less premium than those found in German competitors. The C5 II also featured Citroën’s Hydractive suspension system (depending on the specific configuration), which provided an exceptionally smooth and controlled ride.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 II Tourer utilized a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, designed to prioritize ride comfort. The 3.0 V6 variant typically featured larger diameter brakes – ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear – to cope with the increased power and weight. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. Steering was via a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing a balanced feel between assistance and feedback. The suspension setup was tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable ride for both driver and passengers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citroën C5 II Tourer 3.0 V6 Automatic received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined engine. However, it was often criticized for its relatively high fuel consumption and somewhat uninspired styling compared to its rivals. Compared to the more popular diesel variants, the V6 offered a more premium driving experience but came with a significant price premium and higher running costs. Against competitors like the Ford Mondeo Estate and Volkswagen Passat Variant, the C5 II offered a unique blend of French flair and comfort, but often lacked the brand prestige and perceived reliability of its German counterparts.
Legacy
The Citroën C5 II Tourer 3.0 V6 Automatic, while not a high-volume seller, has developed a following among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique character and comfortable driving experience. The ES9A V6 engine is generally considered to be reliable, although regular maintenance is essential. On the used car market, these models tend to hold their value reasonably well, particularly those in good condition with a full service history. The combination of a spacious estate body, a smooth V6 engine, and a comfortable ride makes the C5 II Tourer 3.0 V6 Automatic a compelling option for buyers seeking a distinctive and refined family car.
