The Citroën C5 II Tourer, specifically the Phase II model produced between 2012 and 2015, represented a significant evolution of Citroën’s large family car. The 1.6 e-HDI (114 hp) Airdream EGS variant occupied a key position in the lineup, aimed at buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and comfortable long-distance cruising. This version, a station wagon (estate) body style, was designed to compete with other European mid-size wagons like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 508, offering a distinctive blend of French comfort and modern diesel technology. The “EGS” designation refers to the electronically controlled sequential manual gearbox, a unique offering in this segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Citroen |
| Model | C5 |
| Generation | C5 II Tourer (Phase II, 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 e-HDI (114 Hp) Airdream EGS |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 117 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.5 kg/Hp, 74 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 114 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 9HR DV6C |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2174 kg (4792.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 634 kg (1397.73 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.) |
| Length | 4829 mm (190.12 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2096 mm (82.52 in.) |
| Height | 1483-1479 mm (58.39 – 58.23 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 | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission EGS |
| 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 | 225/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this C5 Tourer variant is the 9HR DV6C 1.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of the PSA Group’s (Peugeot Citroën) DV6 family, known for its robust design and fuel efficiency. The ‘e-HDI’ designation signifies the inclusion of Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) technology to meet Euro 5 emission standards. The engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine produces 114 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The EGS (Electronically Controlled Sequential Manual) gearbox is a six-speed automated manual transmission. It operates like a traditional manual gearbox but shifts are performed automatically by actuators controlled by the engine management system. It differs from a conventional automatic transmission as it lacks a torque converter, contributing to improved fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 e-HDI with the EGS transmission delivers a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.2 seconds, and top speed is 190 km/h (118 mph). The EGS gearbox, while efficient, can exhibit slightly jerky shifts compared to a traditional automatic, especially at lower speeds. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it well-suited for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy, meaning the engine doesn’t rev as freely as higher-powered variants. Compared to the 2.0-liter HDi models, this 1.6L offers less outright performance but significantly better fuel economy. Against a manual transmission version of the same engine, the EGS provides convenience but sacrifices some responsiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 e-HDI Airdream EGS trim typically included features such as air conditioning, electric windows, a CD/radio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as Exclusive, added features like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a more advanced navigation system. Safety features included ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. The ‘Airdream’ badge signified Citroën’s focus on aerodynamic efficiency and reduced emissions. Optional extras included parking sensors, a rear parking camera, and a premium audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The C5 II Tourer features independent multi-link suspension on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The front suspension utilizes coil springs and anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension also incorporates self-leveling hydropneumatic suspension on some models, further enhancing ride quality. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 e-HDI Airdream EGS variant was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. However, the EGS gearbox received mixed reviews, with some testers finding it less refined than traditional automatic transmissions. Fuel economy figures of around 52.3 US mpg combined were a major selling point. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter HDi models, this variant offered a more affordable entry point into the C5 Tourer range, appealing to buyers prioritizing economy over performance. Reliability was generally good, although the DPF system required periodic maintenance to prevent clogging.
Legacy
The 1.6 e-HDI engine proved to be a reliable and durable unit, and many examples are still on the road today. The EGS gearbox, while not without its quirks, has also proven relatively robust with proper maintenance. In the used car market, this variant represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient estate car. However, potential buyers should be aware of the maintenance requirements of the DPF system and the potential for occasional jerky shifts from the EGS gearbox. The C5 II Tourer 1.6 e-HDI Airdream EGS remains a testament to Citroën’s commitment to comfort and innovation in the family car segment.
